A recent study indicates that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such treatments must be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a return to original mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that people who shed pounds through dieting usually see a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
An Ongoing Condition?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced something flipping and I was suddenly starving," described an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than public health services.
Ultimately, experts emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and lasting health benefits likely depends on combined behavioural support.
