Fresh analysis suggests that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who halt traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a leading medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"Users using these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain means a reversion to starting mass within about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that people who shed pounds through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Rapid Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen responsiveness to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the high risk of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who note that the results "emphasize the persistent character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication report a sudden resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you become starving," recalled one woman.
This difficulty is exacerbated if individuals have not established permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Significant Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for shedding pounds, they are not a magic cure and long-term success relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
