A recent study reveals that patients who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"People purchasing these medications should be aware of the danger of quick rebound weight gain when the treatment ends," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of recovery implies a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The analysis, which examined 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the effects of the injectable medications with other pills.
Researchers note that people who lose weight through lifestyle changes alone typically see a less rapid weight regain—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
The Reason for the Rapid Rebound
Experts believe the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened rebound.
The injections copy a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 levels far above than the body's typical production may cause the body to produce less of its endogenous hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Withdrawal of this hormone supplement leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
The NHS recommend the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside recommended lifestyle changes.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "emphasize the persistent character of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have discontinued the medication explain a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
This difficulty is compounded if users have not adopted lasting lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Recent estimates indicate that a significant number of people in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while GLP-1 drugs are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent cure and long-term success hinges on combined lifestyle management.
