New research indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People purchasing such drugs should be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally have a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural changes.
