New research indicates that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to starting mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy is often ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "underscore the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something flipping and I was suddenly starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is greater among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural management.
