A recent study indicates that individuals who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal shows that while obese people can lose a large proportion of their total mass while undergoing treatment, the weight is regained at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals using these drugs should be cognizant of the potential of fast weight regain when the therapy is stopped," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a return to pre-treatment weight in about a year and a half.
Weighing Treatments
The study, which examined 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, contrasted the effects of GLP-1 agonists with other pills.
The team emphasize that people who lose weight through dieting usually experience a more gradual weight regain—approximately 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Understanding the Fast Regain
Experts believe the mode of action of the jabs is key to understanding the accelerated weight return.
These medications imitate a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls appetite.
"Artificially providing GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal may cause the body to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this medication results in hunger is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Chronic Disease?
Health authorities recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by prescribed lifestyle changes.
Many experts say that, given the high risk of relapse, the therapy should be considered ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the results "underscore the long-term nature of excess weight," similar to managing conditions like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become extremely hungry," described a patient.
This challenge is worsened if patients have not adopted permanent lifestyle or habit modifications during treatment.
Significant Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand being substantial.
- Use is higher among females than men.
- The 40s and 50s demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers emphasize that while the jabs are powerful tools for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural changes.
