New research reveals that individuals who discontinue popular slimming jabs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise plans.
Findings released in a leading medical journal points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Users purchasing such drugs need to be informed of the danger of fast weight regain when the therapy concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment mass within about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of these new drugs with other pills.
Scientists note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs explains the heightened weight return.
GLP-1 drugs copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' means hunger is unsuppressed, making overeating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication report a powerful return of cravings.
"I experienced a switch that goes on and you're instantly extremely hungry," described a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Growing Use
Recent estimates indicate that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, researchers caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a magic cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing behavioural management.
