New research indicates that people who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds far faster than those who halt traditional lifestyle regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an average rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals buying these treatments need to be cognizant of the potential of rapid rebound weight gain when the therapy concludes," warns lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which reviewed dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of these new drugs with other pills.
The team emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through dieting typically have a less rapid creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—after stopping.
Explaining the Fast Rebound
Nutrition scientists suggest the mode of action of the drugs is key to understanding the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which moderates hunger.
"Artificially providing the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the body to produce less of its own natural hormone, and could lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement means hunger is uncontrolled, making binge eating much more probable."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians say that, due to the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," similar to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs explain a sudden resurgence of appetite.
"It felt as if a switch flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said an individual.
The struggle is compounded if individuals have not adopted sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Use
Figures show that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the past year, with desire remaining high.
- Adoption is greater among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts caution that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and long-term success likely depends on combined lifestyle management.
