A recent study suggests that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using these medications must be cognizant of the potential of quick weight regain when the therapy ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Doctors propose the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
The injections copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered life-long.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the medication report a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something flipping and I was suddenly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural support.
