How to Get Off of GLP-1 Medications

In 2023, GLP medications became the hottest topic in healthcare as everyone scrambled to score a prescription for these weight loss drugs. The weight loss race started with many patients experiencing impressive results. However, a new problem arose – how to get off GLP medications without regaining the lost weight.

A study in the JAMA Network showed that tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound and Mounjaro, helped overweight or obese adults lose an average of over 20% of their body weight. However, the study also went on to confirm the growing concern that many regained a significant amount of the weight they lost once they stopped taking the GLP-1 medications. In the JAMA study, patients who switched to a placebo regained 14% of their weight.

Reasons to Stop GLP-1 Medications

Yes, GLP-1 medications can help you lose weight. They stimulate GLP-1, which controls your hunger and will jumpstart your weight loss. But GLP-1 agonist medications aren’t a forever fix. Losing weight and keeping it off requires more than just medication – significant lifestyle changes are needed for long-term success.

Insurance May Not Cover or May Stop Covering GLP-1s

You may not be able to continue taking a GLP-1 medication forever or restart it any time you begin to regain weight. Your insurance may not cover it in the first place or stop covering your GLP-1 medicine after some time, making it unaffordable. If your insurance stops covering them, you might need other ways to manage your weight.

Consider Long-Term Unknown Effects of GLP-1 Usage

One of the biggest reasons to consider stopping your use of GLP-1 medications is their unknown long-term effects. These medications are relatively new at weight loss concentrations, and we have only as much data as the clinical trials have offered. Ideally, you should take them only briefly, get closer to your weight loss goals, and then change your lifestyle to continue.

If Your BMI Was Too High to Begin With

If your BMI is too high (40 or so and over), you should not consider GLP-1 medications to be the only solution to your excess weight concern. You’re unlikely to lose enough weight to return to a normal BMI. However, your bariatric surgeon may suggest taking them to lower your surgical risk and get started on the weight loss path. Bariatric surgery may be a possibility to consider.

You May Be Losing Too Much Muscle and Bone Mass.

Any weight loss program is expected to involve some muscle and bone mass loss. However, taking GLP-1 receptor agonists without appropriate exercise and significant protein intake can make this problematic. Be sure to work with your primary care physician to determine if muscle and bone mass loss increases your risk of osteoporosis and other metabolic concerns.

How to Stop Without Gaining Too Much Weight

Managing the Return of Hunger

Managing the return of hunger after stopping GLP-1 medications is a genuine concern. If you don’t implement lifestyle changes, you’ll be faced with possibly overeating and regaining weight. To effectively stop GLP-1 medicines and keep the weight off, you’ll want to plan your meals and snacks carefully. Eat lean protein and plenty of fiber. These keep you full longer.

Long-Term Motivation and Focus

Yes, you can successfully stop using GLP-1 medications and keep the weight off, but you’ll need to focus on your long-term motivation.

Set goals and stick to them.

• Focus on staying active
• Eat a healthy diet
• Maintain portion control
• Exercise regularly
• Seek the support of family and friends
• Join a weight loss group

Steps to Stop GLP-1 Medications

Talk to Your Doctor: Before stopping any medication, you should discuss it with your doctor. Your healthcare provider will guide you on how to stop using GLP-1 medications safely.

Plan Your Meals: Eat a balanced diet of vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, carbohydrates, and sweets. After stopping your GLP-1 medication, meet with a nutritionist to outline a successful diet maintenance plan to keep the weight off.

Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily.

Monitor Your Weight: Track your weight to ensure you don’t start gaining once you stop using the GLP-1 medication and adjust if the scale is creeping up.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help manage hunger and keep you healthy.

Find Weight Loss Support: Join a support group or find a weight loss buddy.

The Bottom Line

Stopping GLP-1 medications is a big step on your weight loss journey. The one thing to remember is that just because you have lost weight and stopped using the GLP-1 medication, you cannot return to eating whatever you want and not exercising. You’ll still have to maintain strict diet control and stay physically active. To get off GLP-1 medications, you’ll need planning and support, but it’s possible with the right approach. Remember, these drugs are temporary solutions and tools you can use to help with your weight loss journey.