New research indicates that patients who come off new GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy can put back on reduced body mass at a significantly accelerated pace than those who halt conventional diet and exercise plans.
Published data in a prominent medical journal demonstrates that while overweight individuals can lose 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.
"Individuals using such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of quick weight regain when the medication is stopped," warns expert Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery means a reversion to starting mass within about one and a half years.
Analyzing Therapies
The research, which looked at dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, compared the outcomes of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
The team note that individuals who lose weight through dieting usually see a less rapid creep back—perhaps 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Explaining the Quick Regain
Experts propose the mode of action of the drugs accounts for the heightened regain.
These medications imitate a body's own chemical called GLP-1, which controls hunger.
"Long-term administration of the hormone levels far above than normal might result in the system to generate a reduced amount of its own natural hormone, and may also lessen responsiveness to its effects," noted Dr. Adam Collins, a nutrition researcher.
"Withdrawal of this GLP-1 'fix' leads to appetite is no longer kept in check, making excessive eating far more likely."
A Lifelong Disease?
Medical guidelines suggest the injections for people with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside recommended diet and exercise modifications.
Many experts argue that, given the likelihood of relapse, the therapy should be considered long-term.
This opinion is reinforced by pharmaceutical companies, who say that the results "highlight the persistent nature of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
Patient Testimonies
Users who have discontinued the jabs report a sudden return of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become starving," recalled one woman.
The struggle is compounded if patients have not adopted permanent dietary or behavioural changes during therapy.
Widespread Adoption
Figures suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried weight-loss jabs in the last 12 months, with demand continuing to grow.
- Adoption is higher among women than men.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion access the medications through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, experts stress that while the jabs are potent agents for weight loss, they are not a standalone solution and long-term success relies on combined behavioural changes.
