New research reveals that individuals who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing such drugs need to be cognizant of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts propose the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss hinges on combined lifestyle changes.
