New research reveals that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Findings released in a leading health publication points out that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be informed of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain suggests a return to starting mass within about 18 months.
Weighing Therapies
The study, which examined 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers point out that people who shed pounds through dieting typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Explaining the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mechanism of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels 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 effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, considering the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the chronic nature of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
People who have stopped the jabs report a sudden return of hunger.
"I experienced something flipping and you're instantly ravenous," recalled one woman.
This challenge is compounded if users have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Use is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic solution and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle support.
