Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these medications should be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs describe a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and you become ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
