Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these drugs must be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the accelerated rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians contend that, due to the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
