A recent study reveals that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users purchasing these drugs must be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone generally experience a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels far above than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Interest
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.
