GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have changed the weight loss game, helping people shed 15% to 20% of their body weight on average. But what happens when you stop taking them? If you’re using one of these medications or considering it, you might wonder: Will I regain the weight if I come off the drug?
In this article, we take an honest look at what happens when someone stops taking semaglutide or tirzepatide, what research shows, and what you can do to maintain your progress.
What Happens When You Stop?
While on semaglutide or tirzepatide, you eat less, feel fuller faster, and food cravings are often reduced. When you stop the medication, those effects fade. Your hunger returns to its baseline, and your body may start encouraging you to eat more, making it easier to regain weight.
Regaining some weight is a common response. It’s not because of a lack of discipline—it’s how your body naturally responds to the loss of the appetite-regulating hormone the medication mimicked.
What the Research Says
Studies show that most people regain some weight after stopping semaglutide or tirzepatide. In one clinical trial, participants regained about two-thirds of the weight they had lost within a year of stopping semaglutide. A similar trend was observed in tirzepatide trials.
However, it’s not all bad news. A recent analysis found that over half of patients maintained their weight loss a year after stopping semaglutide. Patients who transitioned off the medication gradually and received continued coaching were more likely to maintain their progress.
Challenges to Expect
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Appetite and cravings return
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Your metabolism slows due to having a smaller body
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Old habits can resurface if not reinforced
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Emotional eating may become more prominent
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Anxiety about weight regain can sabotage progress
Long-Term Strategies for Success
1. Taper Off Slowly
Talk to your doctor about gradually reducing your dose instead of stopping abruptly. This can help reduce rebound hunger.
2. Eat for Satiety
Focus on protein and fiber. These nutrients help keep you full and satisfied, even when hunger cues return.
3. Keep Portions in Check
Track your food intake for a few weeks. Watch portion sizes and be mindful of calorie-dense snacks that might sneak in.
4. Stay Active
Exercise helps maintain weight loss. Aim for 200–250 minutes of moderate activity per week and include strength training.
5. Sleep and Stress Matter
Lack of sleep and high stress can spike hunger hormones. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep and find stress relief strategies that work for you.
6. Tackle Emotional Eating
Build awareness around eating triggers. Replace stress eating with healthier coping strategies.
7. Weigh In Regularly
Weigh yourself once a week to catch trends early. Set thresholds for action.
8. Stay Accountable
Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider or coach can help you stay on track.
9. Be Open to Ongoing Treatment
Obesity is a chronic condition. Some people may need long-term or intermittent medication to maintain their results.
How IVUSE Can Help
At IVUSE, we go beyond the prescription. We offer:
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Personalized weight loss programs
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One-on-one coaching and support
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Lifestyle and nutrition education
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Tapering strategies and transition planning
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Long-term maintenance programs
Whether you’re just starting your journey or preparing to come off a GLP-1, IVUSE is here to support your success.
Contact us today to learn more about our personalized programs.
