A recent study indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications need to be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with older methods.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
