Fresh analysis reveals that people who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal points out that while obese people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these medications should be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a intense resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger that goes on and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on combined behavioural changes.
