A recent study indicates that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
