A recent study reveals that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users buying these drugs should be informed of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs accounts for the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," comparing it to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are powerful agents for weight loss, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
