New research reveals that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who end traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a prominent health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users purchasing these treatments must be cognizant of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting generally see a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Doctors believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication describe a intense return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.