New research reveals that people who stop using new GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a prominent health publication shows that while obese individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month after stopping.
"Individuals using such medications must be aware of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The research, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise generally see a slower weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—post-intervention.
Explaining the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the mode of action of the drugs explains the accelerated rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is uncontrolled, making overeating far more likely."
An Ongoing Issue?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, given the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This view is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "highlight the long-term character of obesity," akin to managing conditions like high blood pressure.
Patient Accounts
Users who have come off the jabs describe a powerful resurgence of appetite.
"It was like a switch that goes on and I was suddenly ravenous," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if individuals have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Survey data suggest that a significant number of people in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Use is greater among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, experts caution that while GLP-1 drugs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a magic fix and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing lifestyle support.
