A recent study reveals that individuals who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"People buying such treatments must be cognizant of the risk of fast rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a return to starting weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a more gradual creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "highlight the persistent nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Individuals who have stopped the medication describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a switch activating and I was suddenly ravenous," described one woman.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle support.
