Dr Amir Khan, a GP known for his appearances on ITV, has reassured people using weight loss injections that hitting a plateau is normal and not a sign the medication has stopped working. In a video shared on Instagram, he addressed what he described as the most common question he receives from patients on GLP-1 receptor agonists like Mounjaro.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring gut hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. These injectable medications, available on the NHS for eligible patients, work by slowing stomach emptying, reducing appetite, and dampening food cravings. Dr Khan explained that initial rapid weight loss occurs because patients eat less without feeling restricted.
However, he noted that the body's evolutionary response to weight loss can slow metabolism and increase hunger hormones, making further weight loss harder. 'Your body doesn't particularly like losing weight,' he said, adding that the gap between calories consumed and burned narrows, leading to a perceived plateau.
Dr Khan advised that a higher dose may help overcome biological resistance, but emphasised that weight loss often slows or plateaus naturally. 'You've moved from the rapid weight loss phase into the weight maintenance phase,' he said, calling staying the same weight after significant loss a 'really good success'. He urged users not to panic, as the medication may still prevent weight regain even if scales don't move.
Anyone concerned about their weight should consult their GP.
