New research suggests that people who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while obese people often shed substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments must be informed of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to original weight in about a year and a half.
Comparing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers note that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the drugs explains the heightened regain.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish sensitivity to its actions," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities recommend the jabs for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians say that, given the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the findings "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs report a powerful return of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you're instantly extremely hungry," recalled an individual.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- Many obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone fix and maintained weight loss relies on combined lifestyle management.