Fresh analysis suggests that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on reduced body mass much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major medical journal demonstrates that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while undergoing treatment, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Users using such medications should be cognizant of the risk of fast weight regain when the medication ends," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery means a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which examined dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the results of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team point out that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually have a slower creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Fast Regain
Experts suggest the mode of action of the injections explains the accelerated regain.
These medications copy a natural hormone called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also diminish sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
The NHS suggest the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, considering the likelihood of weight regain, the treatment should be considered long-term.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the chronic nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have come off the medication explain a intense resurgence of hunger.
"It felt as if a trigger that goes on and you become starving," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Survey data show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is greater among females than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
In conclusion, experts stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and maintained weight loss hinges on integrated behavioural support.
