Fresh analysis indicates that individuals who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying these medications need to be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to original mass in about 18 months.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the mechanism of the drugs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than the body's typical production may cause the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Users who have stopped the medication report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch flipping and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is higher among women than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while the jabs are effective agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and long-term success relies on ongoing lifestyle changes.
