New research reveals that patients who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro can put back on lost weight far faster than those who stop traditional lifestyle plans.
Research printed in a leading medical journal points out that while obese people often shed a large proportion of their total mass while using the jabs, the weight comes back at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Users buying such medications should be informed of the potential of quick weight regain when the medication ends," cautioned lead investigator Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of regain means a reversion to starting weight within about 18 months.
Comparing Treatments
The study, which reviewed dozens of studies involving over 9,000 of patients, compared the effects of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Researchers emphasize that people who shed pounds through dieting usually experience a more gradual creep back—approximately 100 grams monthly—after stopping.
The Reason for the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mechanism of the injections explains the heightened regain.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate hunger.
"Long-term administration of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than the body's typical production could lead to the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and could reduce sensitivity to its effects," said Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition specialist.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' results in appetite is unsuppressed, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Disease?
Health authorities advise the injections for people with weight-linked health risks, alongside prescribed diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment should be considered life-long.
This view is reinforced by drug manufacturers, who note that the findings "emphasize the chronic character of excess weight," akin to managing diseases like diabetes.
Patient Experiences
Individuals who have come off the jabs describe a sudden return of appetite.
"I experienced a switch flipping and you're instantly starving," said one woman.
The struggle is exacerbated if users have not established lasting dietary or behavioural modifications during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures show that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with desire continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among females compared to males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the highest usage rates.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Finally, clinicians caution that while these medications are effective tools for shedding pounds, they are not a permanent solution and lasting health benefits hinges on integrated lifestyle management.
