New research reveals that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this medication means appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "highlight the chronic character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have come off the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Interest
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing lifestyle support.
