New research suggests that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who halt conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such treatments should be cognizant of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a reversion to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Comparing Approaches
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Doctors suggest the way of the jabs accounts for the accelerated regain.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also reduce responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the jabs report a powerful return of hunger.
"It was like a switch that goes on and you're instantly starving," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts emphasize that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
