Fresh analysis indicates that patients who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a prominent medical journal points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such drugs must be informed of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally experience a slower weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS advise the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," described an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if patients have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and lasting health benefits relies on combined behavioural management.
