A recent study reveals that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major health publication points out that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these drugs must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the medication ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone generally see a slower creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This view is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have come off the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
This challenge is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers stress that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural changes.
