Plateauing on GLP-1 Treatment: What to Do Next

Experiencing a plateau while using GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy® or Mounjaro® for weight loss is common, and doesn't necessarily mean your GLP-1 treatment has stopped working.

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A weight loss plateau means your weight remains stable despite continuing GLP-1 treatment and healthy habits. This plateau can happen as your body adapts to metabolic changes or to a lower body weight.

Plateaus are a normal part of many weight loss journeys, including treatment with GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide).

Recognising a weight loss plateau helps you set realistic expectations and plan your next steps effectively.

A weight loss plateau does not necessarily indicate that your GLP-1 treatment has stopped working. Several factors can contribute to a temporary slowdown in weight loss.

As your weight decreases, your body requires fewer calories to maintain basic functions. The habits that supported your earlier weight loss on GLP-1 treatment may need small adjustments as your body weight changes.

Some patients notice a short plateau after switching from Mounjaro® to Wegovy®. This plateau can occur because the body is adjusting to a different GLP-1 medication.

A typical Mounjaro®-to-Wegovy® switch includes a short gap between medications (typically around 7 days). It can take 2–4 weeks for Wegovy® to reach steady levels in the body, which may temporarily affect appetite signals and weight loss speed.

Mounjaro® targets two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP), while Wegovy® targets GLP-1 alone. Because of this difference, appetite regulation and satiety signals may change for a few weeks while your body adjusts to a new GLP-1 medication.

If your weight has not changed for several weeks on GLP-1 treatment, small adjustments to your daily habits may help support further progress.

Minor changes to nutrition or exercise routines can help restart weight loss. Focus on balanced meals and consistent movement.

Ensure your GLP-1 injections are being taken consistently, according to the schedule recommended by your MedExpress clinician.

Monitoring your weight, activity levels, sleep quality, and eating patterns can help identify small changes that may improve your progress on GLP-1 treatment.

The following strategies may help support continued weight loss during GLP-1 treatment.

Aim for approximately 30–40g of protein per meal. Adequate protein helps maintain lean muscle mass, which supports your metabolic rate while you continue GLP-1 treatment.

Strength training helps maintain muscle while reducing body fat during GLP-1 treatment. Even two short sessions per week using bodyweight exercises can be beneficial.

Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT) refers to everyday physical activity, such as:

Small increases in daily movement can significantly increase your overall energy expenditure.

Poor sleep can disrupt the hormones that regulate hunger (ghrelin and leptin). Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night where possible to support your progress on GLP-1 treatment.

Plateaus can feel frustrating, but they often reflect your body stabilising after weight loss.

Helpful mindset strategies include:

A MedExpress clinician may review your GLP-1 treatment plan if:

If needed, a MedExpress clinician may review your progress and discuss options such as:

Any changes to your GLP-1 medication will always be assessed carefully for safety and effectiveness.