A recent study suggests that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain reduced body mass far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a major medical journal points out that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using such treatments need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The research, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels far above than normal might result in the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities suggest the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts caution that while these medications are potent agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and lasting health benefits likely depends on integrated lifestyle support.
