A recent study suggests that patients who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people frequently drop about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People using such drugs need to be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain implies a return to original weight in about 18 months.
Weighing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting generally have a more gradual weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Lifelong Disease?
The NHS recommend the injections for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, considering the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often life-long.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the results "emphasize the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the medication describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"I experienced a trigger that goes on and you become starving," recalled an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not established sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Figures indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, researchers caution that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated lifestyle management.