What does coming off GLP-1s or weight loss medication feel like?

What to Expect When Reducing or Coming Off GLP-1 Medication

If you are considering reducing your dose or coming off GLP-1 medication, it’s important to understand what changes you might experience. Yes, everyone is different, so we have compiled some of the more common experiences people might find as they shift their use.

Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate this transition.

Changes in Appetite

When you reduce or stop GLP-1 medication, you may notice a gradual increase in appetite. GLP-1 medications work by helping to regulate hunger signals, so without them, you might feel hungrier than usual. Some people report feeling hungrier than before taking the medication, but ultimately everyone will have different signals and its crucial to expect regular appetite cues to return and welcome them.

Weight Fluctuations

As your appetite changes, you may experience fluctuations in your weight. It's normal to see some changes, so try to focus on maintaining healthy eating habits rather than stressing about the scales. We suggest you set a maintain range when signing up to our app, this will be a target range that you are happy to stay within and it allows for some fluctuation as bodies do not tend to the stay the same weight day to day, week to week, or month to month unless nothing changes on your lifestyle at all. Be realistic and consider how important it is to aim for long term weight management which isn't a fixed number on a scale, this will break the cycle of yo-yo dieting.

Blood Sugar Levels

When coming off weight loss medication you may experience fluctuations in blood sugar levels, as the body readjusts to changes in diet, exercise, and metabolism. Factors such as diet quality, physical activity, stress management, and sleep can significantly influence these levels, making it important to monitor lifestyle choices to maintain stability. Be aware that many people report a return to previous sugar cravings which if acted on will have an impact to your blood sugar levels over time

Emotional Adjustment

Coming off medication can be an emotional journey. You might feel a mix of relief and anxiety. It’s important to recognise these feelings and seek support when needed. Within our app you will find the Satiate FEEL plan where we offer a CBT-informed mindset coaching pathway to assist you on this transition to life after significant weight loss.

Remember, transitioning down the dose or off GLP-1 medication is a personal journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time. Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or communities, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional guidance. With the right mindset and resources like the Satiate app, you can navigate this change successfully. You’ve got this!