New research indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a major health publication demonstrates that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying these drugs must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to original mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and you become extremely hungry," said one woman.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while these medications are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle changes.
