Fresh analysis suggests that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such treatments need to be aware of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain means a return to original mass within about one and a half years.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mechanism of the injections is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the treatment might need to be life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you become ravenous," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
