A recent study suggests that people who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these drugs need to be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It felt as if something activating and you're instantly starving," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
