A recent study suggests that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People buying such treatments need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting typically have a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this medication leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
