By Irfan Mahmud, Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber

What happens when you stop Mounjaro or Wegovy

GLP-1 treatments such as Mounjaro and Wegovy can support significant weight loss, but many people are unsure what to expect when they stop taking them. Understanding how your body responds can help you plan ahead and maintain progress long term. Here is what typically happens and how to manage the transition safely and confidently.

1. Your appetite may return

GLP-1 medications work by slowing stomach emptying and reducing appetite. Once you stop treatment, these effects gradually wear off.

You may notice:

• Feeling hungrier than before

• More frequent food cravings

• A stronger interest in larger portions

This is a normal physiological response, not a lack of willpower. Planning meals, prioritising protein and having structured eating habits can help you stay in control.

2. Weight regain is possible

Studies show that many people regain some weight after stopping GLP 1 treatment. This is largely due to the return of appetite and previous hunger levels.

However, weight regain is not inevitable. You can reduce the risk by:

• Keeping up balanced, regular meals

• Continuing gentle to moderate exercise

• Staying well hydrated

• Avoiding long gaps between meals

Building sustainable habits while on treatment makes it easier to maintain results afterwards.

3. Blood sugar levels may change

For people using Mounjaro or Wegovy to help manage type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, stopping the medication can affect blood sugar control.

You may see:

• Higher readings than before

• Increased variability in blood glucose

• Reduced insulin sensitivity

If you have diabetes or prediabetes, speak to your clinician before stopping your medication so your treatment plan can be adjusted safely.

4. Digestive changes may occur

Many people notice that their digestion feels different once they stop treatment.

Possible changes include:

• Reduced constipation

• Faster digestion

• Less bloating

• A return to your usual bowel habits

These changes are generally mild and settle quickly.

5. Your energy levels may shift

As your appetite increases, you may start eating more regularly again, which can affect your energy.

You might experience:

• Improved energy if you were under eating

• Temporary dips as your appetite regulates

• A general return to your previous baseline

Maintaining consistent meals and focusing on nutrient dense foods can help smooth this transition.

6. Emotional and behavioural changes

GLP 1 treatments often help reduce food related thoughts and cravings. When stopping, some people notice these return.

This can feel frustrating, but it is expected and manageable. Strategies that help include:

• Eating balanced meals that keep you full

• Planning snacks instead of avoiding them entirely

• Keeping a regular meal structure

• Seeking support if needed

When to speak to a healthcare professional

You should seek advice if you notice:

• Rapid weight regain that feels difficult to manage

• Significant changes in blood sugar, especially for those with diabetes

• Persistent digestive issues that do not settle

• Concerns about whether stopping was the right choice

A clinician can help you adjust your plan and decide whether restarting medication or considering alternatives is appropriate.

The bottom line

Stopping Mounjaro or Wegovy leads to predictable changes in appetite, digestion and weight regulation. These changes do not mean you have failed. They simply reflect how your body works once the medication is no longer active. With the right habits and support, it is entirely possible to maintain your progress and continue feeling well.

Reviewed by Irfan Mahmud, Pharmacist and Independent Prescriber (GPhC Reg. No: 2080386)

Irfan is a UK registered pharmacist and independent prescriber with expertise in weight management, primary care and lifestyle medicine. As the founder of Cuva Health, he is dedicated to providing safe, clinically approved treatments and clear, trustworthy health guidance.