A recent study indicates that individuals who stop using popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional lifestyle plans.
Published data in a major medical journal points out 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 purchasing such medications should be cognizant of the danger of rapid weight regain when the therapy ends," cautioned expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to original mass in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting generally see a less rapid weight regain—around 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Medical guidelines advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This opinion is supported by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic nature of obesity," akin to managing conditions like diabetes.
User Accounts
Users who have stopped the medication explain a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like a trigger activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if patients have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural changes during treatment.
Widespread Use
Survey data indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with desire being substantial.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to men.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while the jabs are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and long-term success likely depends on ongoing behavioural support.
