A recent study suggests that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a major medical journal demonstrates that while obese individuals can lose a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People purchasing these drugs need to be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
Scientists note that individuals who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone usually have a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors suggest the way of the injections explains the heightened regain.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement means appetite is no longer kept in check, making binge eating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "highlight the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of cravings.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly ravenous," said a patient.
The struggle is exacerbated if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Significant Adoption
Figures indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and maintained weight loss relies on integrated behavioural support.
