Fresh analysis suggests that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise generally have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural changes.
