A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs explain a intense return of hunger.
"I experienced a switch activating and you become ravenous," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
