Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight much more quickly than those who stop conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a leading health publication shows that while obese people often shed about a fifth of their total mass while on the medication, the mass returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals purchasing these drugs must be aware of the risk of quick rebound weight gain when the medication concludes," stated lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to starting weight within about a year and a half.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the results of GLP-1 agonists with older methods.
The team note that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—post-intervention.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Doctors propose the way of the jabs accounts for the amplified regain.
The injections mimic a natural hormone called GLP-1, which moderates feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone levels several times higher than normal could lead to the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could diminish sensitivity to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
The NHS recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment might need to be ongoing.
This perspective is supported by drug manufacturers, who state that the findings "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
Individuals who have discontinued the medication describe a powerful resurgence of hunger.
"I experienced a trigger activating and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This difficulty is worsened if patients have not developed sustainable lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Widespread Use
Recent estimates show that millions of adults in the UK have used weight-loss jabs in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Use is greater among women than males.
- The middle-aged age group shows the highest usage rates.
- Many obtain the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
In conclusion, clinicians emphasize that while the jabs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and lasting health benefits relies on combined lifestyle changes.
