Users Discontinuing Anti-Obesity Jabs Put On Weight at a Quadrupled Rate Compared to People Using Diet and Exercise
A recent study reveals that people who stop using blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro or Wegovy may regain shed pounds much more quickly than those who halt conventional diet and exercise programs.
Findings released in a leading medical journal shows that while overweight people often shed about a fifth of their body weight while using the jabs, the mass returns at an average rate of 0.8 kg per month upon discontinuation.
"Individuals buying these medications need to be aware of the potential of rapid weight regain when the medication ends," warns researcher Dr. Susan Jebb.
Such speed of recovery implies a reversion to pre-treatment weight in about 18 months.
Analyzing Treatments
The research, which looked at 37 of trials involving over 9,000 of patients, contrasted the results of the injectable medications with conventional dieting.
Scientists emphasize that individuals who shed pounds through lifestyle changes alone typically experience a slower weight regain—approximately 0.1 kg a month—once they finish.
Understanding the Quick Regain
Nutrition scientists propose the mode of action of the jabs explains the accelerated weight return.
GLP-1 drugs imitate a body's own chemical called glucagon-like peptide-1, which helps regulate appetite.
"Sustained high doses of GLP-1 concentrations far above than normal might result in the body to generate a reduced amount of its own natural GLP-1, and could lessen sensitivity to its actions," said Dr. Adam Collins, a dietetics expert.
"Discontinuation of this medication leads to appetite is uncontrolled, making excessive eating much more probable."
A Chronic Condition?
Health authorities advise the jabs for individuals with weight-linked health risks, accompanied by recommended lifestyle changes.
A number of clinicians argue that, given the significant potential of relapse, the treatment is often long-term.
This opinion is echoed by pharmaceutical companies, who note that the findings "underscore the chronic character of obesity," similar to managing conditions like hypertension.
Patient Testimonies
People who have come off the jabs describe a intense return of cravings.
"It was like a trigger flipping and I was suddenly extremely hungry," said one woman.
The struggle is worsened if patients have not established lasting lifestyle or habit changes during treatment.
Growing Use
Figures indicate that a significant number of adults in the UK have tried these injections in the past year, with interest continuing to grow.
- Adoption is more common among females than males.
- The middle-aged demographic shows the greatest level of interest.
- A large proportion obtain the drugs through private prescriptions rather than the NHS.
Ultimately, researchers stress that while these medications are potent tools for weight loss, they are not a standalone cure and maintained weight loss likely depends on ongoing lifestyle changes.
