New research reveals that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using these medications must be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Users who have discontinued the medication report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes 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 remaining high.
- Use is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
