New research reveals that individuals who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually see a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
