How long will I be on Weight Management Medication?

GLP-1 medications like ‘Wegovy’ and ‘Mounjaro’ can be powerful tools for managing weight. They work by mimicking a natural hormone in your body and can reduce your appetite, help control your blood sugar, and support weight loss.

One question many patients ask is: “How long will I need to take this medication?”
The answer depends on your personal goals, progress, and overall health. Here’s what you need to know about how long you might stay on weight management medication.b

The time you spend on weight management medication can vary based on your individual needs. Here are the three key stages:

1. Weight Loss Phase

• Most people start with a weight loss phase, which typically lasts 6 to 12 months.
• While the medications don’t directly create healthy habits, they can help reduce hunger, which can help you to make healthier choices 
• Your Roczen clinical team will check in with you regularly to track your progress and adjust your treatment when needed.

2. Maintenance Phase

• As you approach your goal, your Roczen clinician may reduce your dose or stop the medication, depending on your progress and preferences.
• Some people find a gradual dose reduction helpful in managing any changes in hunger.
• If you choose to stop the medication, your Roczen team will support you in maintaining your new habits and lifestyle.

3. Long-Term Use for Chronic Conditions

• If you are living with obesity or obesity related health conditions like diabetes, you may need longer-term treatment.
• In these cases, the medication doesn’t just help with weight—it also supports your overall health such as helping with blood sugar control in diabetes.

Can I stay on weight management medication forever?

For some people, weight management medication may be a long-term part of managing their health. Obesity is a chronic condition, like high blood pressure or diabetes. Staying on the medication can help prevent weight from coming back and lower health risks linked to living with obesity.

What Happens When You stop weight management Medication?

‍When you stop using weight management medication, your appetite and cravings may return to how they were before treatment. That’s why building long-term healthier habits while on medication is so important.

• Research shows that weight is often gained back after stopping the medication, especially if lasting positive lifestyle changes haven’t been made.
• To reduce this risk, focus on:
  
  • Balanced eating, including a variety of different foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins (e.g., lentils, tofu, fish, or chicken).
  • Regular exercise, to help with consistency choose an activity that you enjoy.
  • Managing stress is key  - finding healthy ways to cope with stress, such as  relaxation techniques, mindfulness or physical activity, can help you stay calm and focused
  • Prioritising sleep - getting enough quality sleep each night is also crucial for your body to recover, recharge and function at its best, supporting both physical and mental health  .
  • Regular check-ins with your Roczen clinician  will help you manage the transition and stay focused on your goals.

It’s Individual

• Some people find they no longer need the medication after making lasting changes.
• Others may benefit from staying on it longer to manage their weight and health.

Planning your treatment

Your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs. Together with your Roczen clinician, you will consider the following:

• Your Weight Loss Goals: Are you happy with your progress?
• Lifestyle Changes: Have you built habits that will support your health?
• Health Conditions: Do conditions like diabetes mean you need longer treatment?
• Side Effects: Are you experiencing any side effects and are they manageable for you?

Summary 

Weight management medications are an effective way to support your weight loss journey. The duration of time you are on them depends on your individual goals, progress and overall health. The most important thing is working closely with your Roczen clinician to find the right approach for you. Your journey is unique and your treatment plan should be too.