A recent study reveals that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading health publication shows that while overweight individuals often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Individuals using such medications should be cognizant of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the medication report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural support.
