Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major health publication points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments must be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of hunger.
"It felt as if something that goes on and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on ongoing lifestyle support.
