Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users using these medications should be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have stopped the medication report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural changes.
