Fresh analysis suggests that individuals who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on shed pounds at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying these treatments must be cognizant of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment mass in about a year and a half.
Weighing Therapies
The analysis, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically see a more gradual weight regain—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Experts believe the way of the drugs explains the amplified weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this medication results in hunger is unsuppressed, making binge eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Disease?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians contend that, considering the high risk of relapse, the treatment might need to be long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the results "underscore the long-term character of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden return of hunger.
"It was like something activating and you become starving," said a patient.
The struggle is compounded if users have not adopted lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Use is greater among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and maintained weight loss relies on integrated lifestyle changes.
