New research suggests that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications must be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the medication describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
