Expert: How Quickly Can You Lose 5, 10, or 20 Kilograms with Injections?

A small but costly injection in the stomach — and fat supposedly melts away. Modern drugs promise to curb appetite and reduce weight. But how fast? Cardiologist and nutritional medicine specialist Boris Bigalke, head of the Cardiovascular Imaging Department at the German Cardiac Center at Charité Hospital, answered this question in an interview with Bild.

"According to research, as a rough guideline, average weight loss is about five to seven percent after three months, around eight to twelve percent after six months, and approximately twelve to fifteen percent after one year," he explained.

But what does that mean in kilograms?

"On average, this treatment can lead to a weight loss of about 5 kilograms in 1–2 months, roughly 10 kilograms in 3–5 months, and around 20 kilograms over more than six months. These figures are only approximate; individual results can vary," Bigalke noted.

How quickly kilograms are lost depends on many factors — including starting weight, age, sex, diet, physical activity, medications, and even genes and metabolism.

"Someone weighing 120 kilograms can expect about 15 percent weight loss over six months. If injections are stopped, a yo-yo effect is likely — meaning the treatment needs to be continued consistently," the expert explained.

Wegovy, Ozempic, or Mounjaro?

When choosing among the main drugs on the market, there is no “better or worse” option — in Europe, doctors and patients select the optimal treatment together according to current medical guidelines. Ozempic, for example, is approved for treating type 2 diabetes and contains the active ingredient semaglutide; it may be prescribed only to diabetic patients. Wegovy also contains semaglutide, but in a higher dose than Ozempic, and is approved for weight loss in obesity. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide and is approved both for type 2 diabetes treatment and weight reduction.

According to Bild’s calculations, patients pay between €210 and €800 for every ten kilograms lost, depending on the drug and dosage. Those aiming to lose 20 kilograms should expect to spend €420–€2,180.

Weight-loss injections have numerous potential side effects, including nausea, digestive problems, circulatory issues, and even depressive states. Therefore, they should only be used under medical supervision.

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