Fresh analysis reveals that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become ravenous," said a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle management.
