Fresh analysis reveals that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using such medications must be aware of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery suggests a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with older methods.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened rebound.
The injections mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs report a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
