Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing such medications must be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a less rapid weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mode of action of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the persistent nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
People who have come off the medication describe a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like something that goes on and you become ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Survey data indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
