Fresh analysis suggests that people who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who stop conventional diet and exercise programs.
Published data in a leading health publication points out that while overweight individuals often shed a large proportion of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users buying such treatments should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the medication is stopped," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting typically have a less rapid weight regain—around 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Fast Rebound
Experts propose the mechanism of the injections explains the amplified regain.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication means appetite is unsuppressed, making binge eating much more probable."
A Lifelong Condition?
The NHS suggest the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the medication describe a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and I was suddenly extremely hungry," recalled one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a magic solution and long-term success hinges on ongoing behavioural changes.
