New research indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight far faster than those who end conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"People purchasing these medications must be informed of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually have a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This perspective is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "highlight the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs report a intense return of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
