A recent study suggests that people who discontinue blockbuster weight-loss injections like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such drugs should be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the medication report a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle support.
