New research suggests that individuals who come off popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on shed pounds far faster than those who halt conventional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a leading health publication demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight is regained at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals using such drugs must be informed of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy ends," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Doctors propose the way of the jabs is key to understanding the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating far more likely."
An Ongoing Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals argue that, due to the high risk of weight regain, the therapy is often long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "highlight the long-term character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like diabetes.
User Testimonies
People who have stopped the jabs describe a powerful return of appetite.
"It felt as if a trigger flipping and you become ravenous," said one woman.
This challenge is worsened if individuals have not developed permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of people in the UK have tried these injections in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- Many access the medications through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success hinges on integrated lifestyle support.
