A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these treatments must be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures 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 males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural changes.
