New research indicates that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"People using such drugs need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This perspective is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Interest
Recent estimates suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural support.
