A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these drugs should be aware of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of trials involving thousands of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
The NHS advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs explain a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while these medications are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits hinges on combined behavioural management.
