Coming off
Stopping Wegovy: what to expect and how to stay steady
The short version
- Wegovy is semaglutide for weight management. Your prescriber will tell you how and when to stop.
- Hunger usually returns over the weeks after your last dose; semaglutide takes several weeks to leave your body.
- On the NHS, NICE recommends Wegovy for up to two years.
- Protein, strength exercise and regular meals are the best-evidenced ways to hold on to what you've achieved.
Why people stop Wegovy
Some people reach the end of an NHS course, which NICE limits to up to two years. Others stop because of cost, side effects, pregnancy plans, or because they and their prescriber decide it's time. Whatever the reason, the decision and the way you stop are for you and your prescriber.
Wegovy is a trademark of Novo Nordisk. Steadie isn't connected with Novo Nordisk and doesn't give advice about medication.
The first weeks after your last dose
Semaglutide stays in the body for about a week after each dose and takes several weeks to clear completely. As it does, most people notice their appetite and interest in food returning. Having easy, protein-rich meals ready before this happens makes it much easier. See appetite after stopping.
What the STEP 1 trial showed
In the STEP 1 extension, people lost an average of 17.3% of their body weight on semaglutide. A year after stopping, they'd regained about two-thirds of it. Their lifestyle support stopped at the same time, which is one reason NICE now recommends at least a year of support afterwards. Read more in what happens when you stop.
Your plan for life after Wegovy
- Talk to your prescriber about stopping, follow-up and who to contact.
- Build meals around protein: how much and where from.
- Start two short strength sessions a week.
- Keep walking, and keep meals regular.
- Use a 7-day average, not single weigh-ins, to keep an eye on weight.
Common questions
How long can I take Wegovy on the NHS?
NICE recommends semaglutide for weight management for up to two years, through specialist weight management services. Check with your prescriber what applies to you.
Can I just stop taking Wegovy?
Talk to your prescriber before stopping. They'll advise you on how and when, and on follow-up.
Will I regain weight after Wegovy?
Many people regain some weight; in the STEP 1 trial it was about two-thirds of the loss within a year, on average. Habits around protein, strength and routine help.
Sources
- Wilding et al. Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: the STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 2022
- NICE technology appraisal TA875: semaglutide for managing overweight and obesity
- NICE quality standard QS212, statement 6: wraparound care alongside medicines for weight management
- NHS: semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic)
- British Dietetic Association: Medications for obesity, a guide to eating and living well (NICE-hosted resource)
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Steadie never gives advice about medication, doses or stopping treatment: talk to your prescriber, GP or pharmacist about those. In an emergency, call 999. Read how we write guides in our editorial policy.