New research reveals that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such drugs must be aware of the potential of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to starting weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become starving," described one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not established lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle management.