New research indicates that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users buying such treatments must be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the medication ends," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain implies a reversion to original weight within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which looked at dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Scientists point out that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Interest
Figures show that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on combined behavioural changes.
