A recent study suggests that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight much more quickly than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a prominent health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Users buying such medications should be informed of the risk of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to starting mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The research, which examined dozens of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the mechanism of the drugs explains the accelerated regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the body to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement means appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Professionals say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch that goes on and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said a patient.
This challenge is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Recent estimates show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among females compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, researchers caution that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on combined behavioural changes.
