Doctors have issued a warning about what can happen after stopping popular weight loss injections.
17:00, 12 May 2026
Weight loss injections have transformed the way many people approach dieting and obesity treatment, with growing numbers turning to the medications for both health and confidence reasons. But experts say maintaining results after coming off the jabs can prove difficult for many users.
Millions of people using weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro, could face rapid weight regain after stopping treatment, with experts warning many users may eventually return to the medication after old cravings and hunger return.
Research suggests people who stop taking weight loss jabs can regain an average of 0.4kg every month, potentially returning to their original weight within around 18 months to two years.
With an estimated 1.6million people in Britain having used weight loss injections over the past year, experts believe around 312,000 users are likely to restart treatment. The issue has become increasingly relevant as many people prepare for summer and turn to weight loss medication to boost confidence and improve long term health.
Dr Crystal Wyllie from ZAVA has now explained what can happen when users stop and restart Mounjaro and why some people report the medication feeling less effective the second time around.
Many users who stop treatment describe the return of “food noise”, stronger cravings and uncontrollable hunger that pushes them back towards old eating habits.
Although research into restarting GLP 1 medications remains limited, a recent preclinical study involving mice suggested inconsistent use of weight loss injections may reduce effectiveness. More research is still needed in humans.
Dr Wyllie said there are several reasons people may struggle to lose weight after restarting Mounjaro. One issue is that the medication can remain in the body for weeks or even months after treatment stops, depending on the dose and length of the break.
Changes to metabolism can also affect results. Weight loss itself may slow metabolic rate, particularly if muscle mass has been lost through undereating or reduced activity levels.
Experts also warned some people may unknowingly lose the calorie deficit needed for continued weight loss. While Mounjaro helps reduce appetite, consuming more calories than the body burns can still cause progress to stall.
Dr Wyllie advised people restarting treatment to carefully track calories, aim for a daily deficit of around 600 calories and prioritise whole foods over highly processed meals high in sugar and fat.
The doctor also warned that alcohol can interfere with metabolism and increase cravings for unhealthy foods while potentially worsening side effects linked to the medication. Stress and lack of sleep were also identified as major barriers to successful weight loss.
Poor sleep can increase hunger hormones while reducing feelings of fullness, making overeating more likely and lowering motivation to maintain healthy routines.
Dr Wyllie recommended stress management techniques including mindfulness and journaling while aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. The scientist also cautioned against expecting rapid changes immediately after restarting injections.
Many users experience early weight loss linked to water rather than fat, meaning progress can naturally slow later. Some people may not feel the full effects of Mounjaro until eight to 12 weeks into treatment.
Experts advise giving the medication at least three months before judging whether it is working effectively.
Stopping and restarting Mounjaro is generally considered safe, although people who pause treatment for more than two weeks are usually advised to restart at the lowest 2.5mg dose before gradually increasing it again.
Restarting on a higher dose without proper adjustment may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea, bloating and tiredness.
Dr Wyllie said: “While Mounjaro is an effective medication for weight loss, you may see a difference in effectiveness after stopping and restarting. To enhance your results, it’s important to follow the prescribed dosing schedule and aim to reach the appropriate maintenance dose, as higher doses are generally associated with greater benefits.
“However, if you’re experiencing side effects, it’s perfectly acceptable to step up more slowly. Your doctor may recommend staying on a lower dose for longer until your body adjusts, comfort and tolerability should always guide the pace of titration.
“Beyond medication, factors like maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, managing stress, and getting enough sleep play a vital role in supporting your weight loss journey.”
She added that alternative treatments including Wegovy, Nevolat, Orlistat, Xenical and Alli may also be considered for those struggling with Mounjaro after restarting treatment.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: www.dailyrecord.co.uk
