Medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro are commonly used to support weight loss. These obesity medications work by targeting processes in your digestive system to help regulate appetite, improve insulin use, and slow how quickly your stomach empties after a meal. This keeps you feeling fuller for longer, reducing hunger and calorie intake.

However, the appetite-suppressing effects of these medications are temporary and will wear off once you stop taking them. This means weight gain can occur after stopping the medication, much like blood pressure may rise when stopping medication for high blood pressure (hypertension).

Why Weight Regain Happens

Obesity is now recognised as a long-term medical condition, similar to diabetes or hypertension, which often requires ongoing management. The set point theory suggests that our bodies have a natural weight range they aim to maintain. When weight loss moves below this range, the body responds by increasing hunger and slowing metabolism, making it harder to keep the weight off.

That said, during your time at Roczen, you’ve been doing more than just taking medication—you’ve been building new habits and making meaningful lifestyle changes. As our Psychologist, Dr Alves, says, “repetition rewires the brain.” The more you practice healthy behaviours, the more they become part of your everyday life. While you may notice an increase in appetite after stopping medication, continuing to apply the tools and strategies you’ve learned at Roczen will help you maintain your results as much as possible.

Maintaining Weight Loss

Here are some practical strategies to support your weight maintenance after stopping medication:

• Stick to Roczen’s principles: Continue to follow the Roczen nutrition guidelines, foods lists and fasting guides. 
• Stay active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each week to support weight maintenance and overall health.
• Prioritise sleep: Ensure you get enough rest and maintain good sleep hygiene habits. Quality sleep plays a key role in weight regulation.
• Hydrate: Drink 2–2.5 litres of water or non-caffeinated drinks daily to stay hydrated and manage hunger.
• Practise mindful eating: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues, savour your meals, and eat without distractions.
• Use Roczen tools: Regularly reflect on changes to your appetite and food intake. Use tools from our wide range of articles and tools in Explore to stay on track.
• Be kind to yourself: Understand that some weight regain is normal and expected. Focus on progress, not perfection.
• Reach out for support: Stay connected and reach out to your group mentors, peers and clinician when you need support.

Coming off Medication Gradually

If you decide to stop your medication, discuss the option of gradually tapering with your clinician. A slow transition allows you to implement these tips progressively, giving you time to adjust and maintain the progress you’ve made.

With the right tools and mindset, it’s possible to maintain the positive changes you’ve achieved. Your Roczen journey is about more than medication—it’s about creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle. Remember, you’re not alone in this process, and the Roczen team is here to support you every step of the way.