New research suggests that patients who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro tend to recover lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle programs.
Research printed in a major health publication points out that while overweight individuals can lose a large proportion of their body weight while using the jabs, the weight returns at an estimated rate of nearly a kilo each month once they quit.
"Individuals using these treatments should be aware of the risk of rapid weight regain when the treatment is stopped," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a reversion to original mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Approaches
The study, which looked at dozens of trials involving over 9,000 of participants, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team point out that individuals who lose weight through diet and exercise usually experience a slower creep back—around 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors believe the way of the jabs explains the amplified rebound.
These medications mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone concentrations several times higher than normal may cause the system to produce less of its own natural hormone, and may also diminish responsiveness to its actions," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' means appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines recommend the jabs for individuals with obesity-related health risks, accompanied by recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts contend that, due to the significant potential of weight regain, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term nature of excess weight," akin to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the medication explain a sudden return of cravings.
"I experienced something activating and I was suddenly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if users have not established permanent dietary or behavioural modifications during therapy.
Significant Use
Figures suggest that a significant number of adults in the UK have used these injections in the last 12 months, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, experts stress that while these medications are powerful tools for weight loss, they are not a magic fix and long-term success likely depends on combined behavioural support.
