Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be aware of the risk of fast weight regain when the treatment is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled an individual.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on ongoing lifestyle management.
