A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such drugs must be informed of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors believe the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success hinges on integrated behavioural support.
