New research reveals that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading health publication points out that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these medications need to be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and you're instantly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
