A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals purchasing these medications should be informed of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists propose the way of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and you become extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers caution that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits hinges on combined lifestyle support.
