New research suggests that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing such treatments must be informed of the risk of quick weight regain when the therapy concludes," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts believe the way of the injections accounts for the heightened weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses 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 could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Experiences
Users who have come off the medication describe a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts emphasize that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
