A recent study reveals that patients who discontinue popular GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass far faster than those who halt conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Research printed in a prominent medical journal points out that while obese individuals frequently drop substantial amounts of their body weight while on the medication, the weight returns at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People using such treatments need to be informed of the danger of quick weight regain when the treatment concludes," cautioned researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery suggests a return to pre-treatment mass in about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The study, which reviewed 37 of studies involving thousands of participants, compared the outcomes of GLP-1 agonists with conventional dieting.
Researchers point out that people who lose weight through diet and exercise typically have a less rapid creep back—perhaps 100 grams monthly—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Doctors suggest the mode of action of the jabs explains the heightened weight return.
These medications mimic a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which controls feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations several times higher than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and may also reduce responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Discontinuation of this medication results in appetite is uncontrolled, making overeating much more probable."
A Lifelong Issue?
Medical guidelines advise the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy might need to be ongoing.
This view is supported by drug manufacturers, who say that the findings "emphasize the long-term character of excess weight," comparing it to managing diseases like hypertension.
User Accounts
Users who have discontinued the jabs describe a sudden return of cravings.
"It was like something flipping and you become ravenous," said an individual.
This challenge is exacerbated if users have not developed sustainable dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Growing Interest
Survey data show that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the past year, with interest remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among females compared to males.
- The 40s and 50s age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Finally, clinicians emphasize that while these medications are effective tools for weight loss, they are not a permanent fix and long-term success relies on combined lifestyle changes.
