Fresh analysis reveals that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people can lose about a fifth of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the mass comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using such drugs should be cognizant of the danger of fast rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified weight return.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with weight-linked medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," described one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
