Fresh analysis reveals that people who come off blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who end traditional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose about a fifth of their body weight while on the medication, the mass is regained at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month after stopping.
"Individuals buying such drugs should be cognizant of the danger of rapid rebound weight gain when the treatment concludes," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
This pace of regain suggests a return to starting mass in about 18 months.
Comparing Approaches
The analysis, which looked at 37 of studies involving over 9,000 of participants, contrasted the effects of these new drugs with older methods.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through diet and exercise usually experience a more gradual creep back—around 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Rapid Rebound
Experts suggest the way of the jabs is key to understanding the heightened rebound.
The injections imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the system to produce less of its own natural GLP-1, and could diminish responsiveness to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics researcher.
"Discontinuation of this hormone supplement results in hunger is unsuppressed, making excessive eating a significant risk."
A Chronic Disease?
The NHS suggest the injections for people with obesity-related health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Professionals contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the treatment should be considered ongoing.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
Patient Accounts
Users who have stopped the jabs report a powerful resurgence of cravings.
"It felt as if a trigger activating and I was suddenly starving," described one woman.
This challenge is exacerbated if individuals have not developed lasting lifestyle or habit modifications during therapy.
Widespread Use
Figures suggest that millions of people in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with desire remaining high.
- Use is more common among women compared to men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- Many access the drugs through private healthcare rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians stress that while GLP-1 drugs are effective agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone solution and maintained weight loss likely depends on integrated behavioural management.