How to maintain weight loss after Ozempic or Mounjaro

Medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro can help support weight loss. However, some people may find weight maintenance more challenging after stopping treatment.

Ozempic and Mounjaro can help reduce appetite, slow stomach emptying and increase feelings of fullness. When treatment stops, appetite may gradually return to previous levels. This does not necessarily mean that weight will be regained, but having a plan in place may help support long-term weight maintenance.

Here, we’ll look at how to maintain weight loss after Ozempic or Mounjaro, and the things people can try.

Why weight loss can feel different after treatment

Ozempic and Mounjaro contain the active ingredients semaglutide and tirzepatide respectively. These medications belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic GLP-1, a hormone involved in appetite regulation and feelings of fullness.

When somebody stops taking these medications, they may notice increased hunger, reduced feelings of fullness or more frequent thoughts about food. If eating habits change as a result, weight regain may occur for some people.

Make a post-medication plan

There is no need to make drastic changes for weight maintenance after stopping medication. Instead, focus on simple behaviours that may already have been adopted during a weight-loss journey. For example, aim for the following:

• A sensible, consistent eating pattern that allows for treats
• Regular meal times to support appetite regulation
• An understanding of emotional hunger versus physical hunger
• Flexibility that takes real life into account

Focus on a balanced diet

After coming off Ozempic or Mounjaro, appetite may begin to increase again. Eating a balanced diet may help support fullness after meals and reduce the likelihood of excessive snacking.

Aim to include protein, complex carbohydrates, fibre-rich foods and healthy fats in moderation. However, overly restrictive diets can be difficult to maintain long term. Rather than cutting foods out completely, it may help to include sugary or high-fat foods occasionally as part of a balanced eating pattern.

Keeping a list of easy meals for busy days may also help reduce reliance on convenience snacks or takeaway foods.

Aim for regular physical activity

Regular exercise may help support weight maintenance after Ozempic or Mounjaro, but extreme routines are not necessary. Physical activity can support overall health and wellbeing in addition to weight management.

Strength training may help support muscle maintenance, while aerobic exercise can contribute to overall energy expenditure. Physical activity can include a range of options, from gym classes and running to gardening or walking.

The NHS recommends that adults aim to be physically active every day where possible. Guidance suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week. Anyone unsure about starting a new exercise routine may wish to speak to a healthcare professional for advice.

Track progress, but don’t stress

Keeping track of progress may help support weight maintenance. Some people choose to monitor meals, physical activity or body weight using a journal or app. However, occasional changes to routine are normal and do not necessarily undo long-term progress.

For example, missing a few workouts during a busy week or enjoying a meal out occasionally is unlikely to have a significant long-term impact when balanced habits are maintained overall.

Stress may also affect eating habits and general wellbeing, so maintaining a realistic and sustainable approach can be helpful.

Maintaining weight loss after Ozempic or Mounjaro may feel challenging, but many people find it achievable with practical lifestyle habits and ongoing support. Anyone considering stopping treatment should speak to their prescriber or doctor for personalised advice.

For more insights into the world of medicated weight loss and general wellbeing, visit the Virtual Slimming Clinic Blog. A range of information is available for different stages of a weight-loss journey.

Frequently asked questions

Will i regain weight after stopping Ozempic or Mounjaro?

Some people may regain weight after they stop taking Mounjaro Ozempic, but this does not happen to everybody. Appetite may gradually return after treatment ends, although healthy lifestyle habits may help support weight maintenance.

What is the best way to achieve weight maintenance after treatment?

Building a practical plan and adopting sustainable lifestyle habits may help support weight maintenance. A balanced diet, regular physical activity and consistent routines can all contribute to long-term results.

Is it normal for my appetite to increase after stopping Ozempic or Mounjaro?

An increase in appetite after stopping GLP-1 medications can be normal. These medications affect appetite and feelings of fullness, so appetite may gradually return once treatment ends.

The editorial unit

The material contained in this article is of the nature of general comment only and does not give advice on medical or any particular matter. Recipients should not act on the basis of this article’s information without taking appropriate professional advice.