GLP-1 Medicines and Weight Management

Why weight may increase after stopping GLP-1 medicines and how GP track progress

What GLP-1 medicines change

GLP-1 medicines are prescription treatments that act on appetite and satiety pathways. They help many people feel fuller sooner and reduce persistent hunger, which can support lower energy intake. These effects reflect changes in gut–brain signalling and vary between individuals depending on biology, existing health conditions, medicines, and daily context.

Why weight often increases after stopping

When GLP-1 treatment ends, the appetite-modulating signals fade. Hunger cues and food interest may gradually return, particularly during stressful or time-pressured periods. Biology also plays a role: after weight loss, the body tends to defend a familiar weight by increasing hunger and conserving energy. Weight regain after stopping is common and does not indicate poor effort or motivation.

Why the scale is only one measure

Weight alone does not capture the whole experience. Many people notice changes in energy, mobility, sleep, comfort with eating, and confidence in routines while on treatment. Some benefits persist even if weight fluctuates later. Meaningful review considers function and wellbeing alongside numbers.

How GP monitor progress over time

Clinicians focus on trends, not single readings. Monitoring may include weight and waist measurements, blood pressure, and selected blood tests related to metabolic health, tailored to your situation. Equally important are conversations about appetite, eating patterns, side effects, sleep, activity, and how routines fit with work, family, culture, and budget. This broader view helps identify what supports progress and what creates friction.

What follow-up conversations aim to do

Follow-up reviews revisit goals that matter to you and assess what feels sustainable long term. They also check whether a medicine remains appropriate, how it fits with other conditions, and how success is defined—often beyond weight alone. Open discussion helps reframe disappointment and plan next steps that respect biology and real-world constraints.

Planning beyond medication

Whether continuing, pausing, or stopping treatment, planning focuses on skills and supports that outlast any single therapy. This may include realistic meal structures, movement you can maintain, sleep protection, and stress strategies. A GP helps tailor this plan and sets safety-netting for review if weight or symptoms change unexpectedly.

This article provides general health information only and does not replace medical advice. Please speak with your GP for personalised care.