Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these medications should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to original weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically have a less rapid creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs explain a intense return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures indicate that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
