A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using such drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and you become ravenous," described a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Survey data indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural management.
