A recent study indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Published data in a prominent health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become starving," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on integrated lifestyle management.
