Fresh analysis indicates that people who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain lost weight at a significantly accelerated pace than those who stop traditional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing such medications need to be aware of the potential of fast weight regain when the medication concludes," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a return to original weight in about a year and a half.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
The team note that people who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone usually see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts suggest the way of the injections explains the accelerated weight return.
The injections imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 levels several times higher than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
An Ongoing Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals say that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a switch activating and you become extremely hungry," described an individual.
This difficulty is compounded if individuals have not established sustainable lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Widespread Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of people in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians caution that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle management.
