A recent study suggests that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such drugs need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified rebound.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians caution that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle support.
