New research reveals that patients who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading health publication shows that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "underscore the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits relies on ongoing behavioural management.
