Fresh analysis indicates that patients who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs must be aware of the risk of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a return to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting generally experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Health authorities advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs describe a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become starving," said a patient.
The struggle is worsened if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
