New research suggests that patients who discontinue new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight far faster than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Findings released in a major medical journal shows that while obese individuals often shed substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the mass comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such medications must be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a return to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Therapies
The research, which looked at 37 of studies involving thousands of patients, compared the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually have a slower weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists believe the way of the drugs explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs copy a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous hormone, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this medication means hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS advise the jabs for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is echoed by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "emphasize the long-term nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs report a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if something flipping and you're instantly starving," recalled a patient.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Interest
Recent estimates suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is higher among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while these medications are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
