GLP-1 Series: What Happens When You Quit?

Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1) like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® have become household names in the conversation around weight loss. These drugs mimic hormones that help regulate appetite and blood sugar, and for many patients, they’ve been life-changing.

As we launch this new blog series at Legacy Community Health exploring the full picture of GLP-1s, we want to start with an important – but often overlooked – question: What happens when you stop taking these medications?

The reality? Quitting GLP-1 medications can be harder, both physically and mentally, than starting them.

Why People Quit

Even though GLP-1 medications are usually meant to be taken long-term, nearly two-thirds of people in the U.S. who started one in 2021 had stopped within a year, according to a 2024 Scientific American report using data from Epic Research.

Why the drop-off?

Some of the most common reasons include:

• Cost: GLP-1 drugs can run over $1,300 a month, and they’re not always covered by insurance.

“These medications are very expensive,” says Neha Agrawal, Legacy Community Health’s Director of Clinical Pharmacy Services. “If your plan doesn’t cover weight loss therapy, you may want to explore direct purchase options from manufacturers. For example, NovoCares® offers Wegovy® for $499/month, and LillyDirect® offers Zepbound® starting at $349/month. We do not recommend sourcing your GLP-1 from compounding pharmacies as they are not regulated by the FDA and the safety and efficacy of their product has not been tested.”

• Side effects: Nausea, vomiting, and other stomach issues can make sticking with the treatment tough.

“Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and belching are common side effects we see often,” says Clinical Pharmacy Specialist Kenicia Curry. “But the great news is, they can be avoided.” She recommends eating slowly, eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding greasy foods, and staying hydrated. “Headaches may happen if you’re dehydrated or not eating well, so pairing proteins and fiber-rich foods is key.”

• Availability: Because of high usage, manufacturers were previously unable to keep up with demand. However, these shortages have since been resolved.

These roadblocks are very real, and in many cases, unavoidable. But stopping GLP-1s can come with some serious downsides.

The Mental and Physical Impact of Stopping

Quitting GLP-1s isn’t just about seeing the weight come back. It’s also about how that return can mess with your body and your mindset.

In the STEP 1 trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine, people taking semaglutide lost more than 15% of their body weight over about 16 months. However, in a follow-up study, once participants stopped the medication, they regained about two-thirds of the weight within a year.

That rebound isn’t just frustrating—it’s biological. As BBC Future pointed out, GLP-1 medications help quiet hunger signals. Once those meds are gone, your appetite can roar back even stronger. The brain becomes more sensitive to hunger cues. And most of the weight that comes back is usually fat, not muscle – which can make it even harder for your body to get back to a healthy balance.

Emotionally, that can take a toll. It’s not only about numbers on a scale—it’s about feeling defeated, ashamed, or like you failed. But the truth is your biology is playing a big part. Without support, that emotional fallout can lead to distress or even disordered eating habits.

There’s a Better Way to Quit

If you or a loved one is thinking about stopping a GLP-1 medication, it’s important to approach it like any other medical decision—with a plan and professional support.

Here’s what experts recommend:

• Talk to your provider: Don’t quit cold turkey. Tapering slowly can reduce rebound hunger and allow your body to adjust.
• Monitor your body and mind: If you notice your weight, cravings, or emotions shifting significantly, speak up early.
• Don’t wait to regain 30 pounds: If the weight starts coming back, it may be possible to restart the medication or explore alternatives.
• Stick to lifestyle changes: Continue healthy eating habits, physical activity, and counseling support even after stopping the medication.
• Know your options: If GLP-1s aren’t sustainable, other medications or bariatric surgery might be a better long-term solution.

And don’t forget your pharmacist.

“Pharmacists are experts in medications,” says Curry. “That includes helping you find the best treatment options for your health and your budget.”

Curry adds that pharmacists often help patients navigate insurance coverage or recommend programs like copay savings cards and Medicare Extra Help. “If you ever have trouble affording your prescriptions, don’t hesitate to talk to your pharmacist. We’re here to help.”

A Chronic Condition Needs Chronic Care

Obesity isn’t just about willpower or a quick fix—it’s a chronic condition that needs long-term care. That’s why GLP-1 medications weren’t designed as a one-time solution. Much like managing high blood pressure or diabetes, the best results come from consistent care and ongoing support.

“At Legacy, we work as a team,” says Curry. “That includes your doctor, a dietitian, a therapist, and your pharmacist. We make sure your medications are the right dose and working well, without causing problems.” She notes that dietitians help plan meals for balanced nutrition, and behavioral health professionals provide emotional support. “You’re not alone in this. We’re here to help every step of the way.”

Stay tuned for more in our GLP-1 series, where we’ll explore other important facets of these medications: from side effects and mental health impacts, to long-term strategies and the future of weight loss management.

Need support with weight management or GLP-1 treatment? Contact Legacy Community Health at (832) 548 5000 to talk with a provider or pharmacist today.