A GP has shared a three-step strategy to help people manage their weight and reduce the risk of rapid weight gain after stopping weight-loss injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro. With research indicating that one in eight Britons will be taking GLP-1 drugs by 2027, advice on safely discontinuing these medications is increasingly relevant.
Risks of stopping suddenly
Dr Ann Nainan, a GP at Medicspot, an online weight-loss medication clinic, outlined the dangers of abruptly ceasing weight-loss medications. She said: "The duration that people take weight loss medications for varies depending on each individual's reasons for taking the drugs. For many users, the prospect of coming off weight loss medications can be daunting due to the potential side effects."
She added: "However, before coming off the medication, it's crucial to speak to a healthcare professional or an expert at an online weight loss clinic to ensure you do so safely and over a period of time. Stopping weight loss medications suddenly can pose health risks and potentially reverse the results you have achieved."
According to researchers at the University of Cambridge, discontinuing GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide or tirzepatide frequently triggers an appetite and neurochemical rebound as the drug's artificial "brake" on hunger is lifted. Research shows that individuals often experience swift initial weight regain, averaging approximately 0.4 kg to 0.8 kg per month, although many still retain around a quarter of their total lost weight over the longer term.
What are the dangers?
Recent BMJ research indicates weight is frequently regained rapidly after discontinuing weight-loss medication. A 2026 review in The BMJ found that individuals who stopped taking semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) put back on an average of 9.9 kg (approximately 1.5 stone) within a year, representing around two-thirds of the weight they had shed.
As weight-loss medications slow digestion and control 'food noise', abruptly ceasing them can lead to increased appetite. Dr Ann explained that when this occurs, the likelihood of food cravings and preoccupation with eating increases, "which can often lead to unhealthy eating and weight gain".
Given that weight-loss medications are frequently prescribed to individuals with prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, Dr Ann emphasises it's vital to understand that discontinuing the medication suddenly can trigger blood sugar spikes and unstable glucose levels. "This may result in medical treatment for the changes in blood sugar being required if left unmanaged", she said.
How to safely come off weight-loss medications
Dr Ann stresses the importance of doing so safely by adhering to the guidance below:
- Maintain healthy eating habits
- Exercise regularly
- Plan weekly meals
She explained that weight-loss medications ought to be taken alongside a healthy diet. "It's important to maintain this post-medication," she said. "While occasional treats are fine to enjoy, healthy foods need to form the bulk of your diet to avoid rapid weight gain."
Dr Ann emphasises that regular exercise is crucial to maintaining the results achieved while taking weight-loss medications. "Alongside helping to stabilise metabolism and energy levels, exercise helps to keep the mind focused and avoid 'food noise' which can lead to unhealthy habits being introduced into your daily routine," she said.
"One of the key habits to avoid to allow for a safe transition off weight loss drugs is to avoid the urge to binge eat, which is difficult when living a busy life," she added. With this in mind, she advises planning meals and batch cooking wherever possible, as this will reduce the temptation to reach for ready meals and fast food for convenience.
She concluded: "If you are considering coming off your medication, then it's important to seek advice from a professional or organisation that can offer you dedicated weight loss coaching, as they can create a plan and guide you through the process safely and effectively. If you take medications that affect your blood sugar levels, then it could be dangerous to stop suddenly."
Where can people find support?
The NHS provides official support options, and NICE guidelines stipulate that patients should receive follow-up care. Your GP is able to refer you to a specialist weight management service, an NHS dietitian, or the free 12-week NHS Digital Weight Management Programme.
Private organisations, such as Slimming World, also provide assistance for those coming off GLP-1 medication. Emotional support, encouragement and practical lifestyle guidance can also be found through online peer communities, such as GLP-1 weight-maintenance groups on Facebook or through the Obesity Action Coalition.
