As weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro and similar medications gain popularity among people struggling with obesity, medical experts are cautioning that these drugs are not a shortcut to permanent results.
Data published in the British Medical Journal suggests that slimmers who stop weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro or Wegovy can regain lost weight up to four times faster than those who discontinue conventional dieting and exercise.
Dr Huzefa Iqbal, a physician at Halcyon Medical Centre in Nairobi, explains that while such medications can support significant weight reduction, some patients regain weight rapidly once treatment ends.
“Some patients do regain weight quickly after stopping injections, but it is not everyone. And even among those who regain, the rate varies,” Dr Iqbal told The Star.
“The reason some patients regain faster is that they treat the injections as a quick fix, without making lifestyle changes such as improving diet or incorporating exercise.”
According to Dr Iqbal, the drugs work by reducing appetite and controlling cravings, but patients must also change their eating habits psychologically.
“If someone is addicted to sugar or junk food, the medication can help them eat less of these. But if the patient relies solely on the drug and doesn’t address diet or physical activity, they are more likely to regain the weight,” he said.
Research and clinical observations indicate that patients who rely on injections alone tend to regain weight faster than those who lose weight through traditional dieting and exercise.
“The key is a holistic approach. The injection alone is not a solution. Diet, exercise and psychological support must go hand in hand,” Dr Iqbal said.
“If you compare people who used lifestyle changes only to those who used injections without lifestyle changes, the former group will maintain their weight longer.”
He added that a holistic approach is essential, noting that “the injections alone do not create lasting results”.
“The medications are tools, not magic bullets. They should be combined with dietary changes, physical activity and psychological guidance. Only then can the weight loss be sustained over time,” Dr Iqbal said.
According to St Catherine University, holistic health is an approach to wellness that simultaneously addresses the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual components of health.
Weight-loss injections require long-term commitment, according to Dr Iqbal.
“Before starting, we assess a patient’s medical profile, including BMI, health conditions, medications and past weight-loss attempts. Not everyone qualifies for these drugs,” he explained.
Once on medication, patients typically undergo three months of consistent treatment, accompanied by lifestyle coaching.
“During these three months, we work on diet, exercise and behaviour modification. If a patient reaches their target weight, we taper the drug slowly rather than stopping abruptly,” Dr Iqbal added.
“Sudden discontinuation can create a metabolic vacuum, which leads to rapid regain.”
Patients who have not reached their goals may continue monthly treatment under supervision, with adjustments as needed.
The doctor stressed that stopping medication without lifestyle adjustments is the main cause of rapid weight regain.
“Weight management with injections is not a short-term solution. Even after achieving the target, a patient must continue lifestyle changes,” Dr Iqbal said.
“Patients must understand that this is a journey toward lifelong change, not a quick fix.”
Doctors and healthcare systems play a critical role in helping patients maintain their health gains.
“Even before starting injections, patients meet a team of specialists: a nutritionist, a trainer, a psychologist and a clinician. This continues while on medication and even after stopping,” Dr Iqbal said.
Follow-up care includes monitoring diet, exercise habits and mental well-being.
Patients are also educated on managing cravings, understanding the drug’s effects and avoiding relapse.
“Sustaining weight loss is a process. Professional guidance helps patients integrate these changes into daily life,” he added.
Dr Iqbal noted that while injections can be effective, they may also have side effects.
According to Harley Health, these include nausea, dizziness, headaches or injection-site reactions. Some users also report gastrointestinal discomfort.
Patients are monitored regularly to ensure they tolerate the medication safely.
“Side effects vary depending on the drug and the patient. That is why professional supervision is critical. People should not self-prescribe these medications,” Dr Iqbal cautioned.
According to Dr Iqbal, weight regain is influenced by genetics, metabolism, hormones, medications, stress levels and underlying medical conditions.
“Some people are genetically prone to regain weight faster. Stress eating, hormonal fluctuations, slow metabolism and medications such as steroids or contraceptives can all increase the likelihood of regain. Thyroid disorders also play a role,” he explained.
He warned that patients must understand these factors before starting injections.
“Weight loss is highly individual. What works for one person may not work for another. That’s why proper medical assessment and personalised treatment are essential,” he said.
“It’s vital to consult a qualified medical professional. Not every patient is eligible for these drugs, and taking them without guidance can be risky.”
For patients hesitant about injections or concerned about weight regain, Dr Iqbal advises considering other medical options.
These include surgical interventions such as gastric bypass or sleeve surgery, non-surgical procedures like gastric balloons, oral medications or endoscopic sleeve therapy.
“There is a misconception that injections are the only solution. They are just one of many options. The right choice depends on a patient’s health profile, goals and commitment,” he said.
“Patients should choose the method that fits their needs and medical profile, not just what’s trending.”
He advised patients considering weight-loss injections to consult qualified medical professionals to assess eligibility.
“Weight-loss medications are tools to assist patients, not magic pills. The reality is that without lifestyle change, the weight will return. But with the right guidance and commitment, lasting results are achievable,” Dr Iqbal said.
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