Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to starting weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally have a slower weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
