New research indicates that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while overweight people can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People using these medications must be cognizant of the potential of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to starting weight in about one and a half years.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team point out that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs accounts for the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this GLP-1 'fix' results in hunger is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts say that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Accounts
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data suggest that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is more common among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
