New research suggests that patients who discontinue blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy tend to recover shed pounds much more quickly than those who end conventional diet and exercise regimens.
Published data in a major medical journal shows that while overweight people can lose substantial amounts of their total mass while on the medication, the weight comes back at an estimated rate of 0.8 kg per month once they quit.
"People buying such drugs must be cognizant of the risk of rapid weight regain when the therapy is stopped," stated researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
That rate of recovery suggests a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The study, which examined dozens of trials involving thousands of patients, contrasted the outcomes of the injectable medications with older methods.
Scientists note that people who lose weight through diet and exercise usually have a more gradual creep back—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
The Reason for the Rapid Regain
Doctors propose the way of the drugs explains the heightened rebound.
GLP-1 drugs mimic a natural hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate feelings of fullness.
"Sustained high doses of the hormone concentrations far above than normal may cause the system to generate a reduced amount of its endogenous GLP-1, and may also lessen sensitivity to its effects," explained Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics specialist.
"Stopping of this hormone supplement results in appetite is uncontrolled, making binge eating far more likely."
A Chronic Issue?
Medical guidelines recommend the injections for individuals with obesity-related medical conditions, alongside prescribed lifestyle changes.
Professionals contend that, given the high risk of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who state that the results "underscore the long-term character of obesity," similar to managing diseases like high blood pressure.
User Accounts
People who have discontinued the jabs describe a intense resurgence of appetite.
"It was like something activating and you become starving," recalled a patient.
This difficulty is exacerbated if users have not developed permanent lifestyle or habit changes during therapy.
Growing Adoption
Survey data suggest that millions of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with demand remaining high.
- Adoption is more common among women than men.
- The middle-aged age group shows the greatest usage rates.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than public health services.
Ultimately, clinicians stress that while the jabs are powerful agents for shedding pounds, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss relies on ongoing behavioural support.
