Short Answer
Your last GLP-1 injection is not the finish line. Most people need a maintenance plan to protect their results. Options include continuing medication, transitioning to a maintenance dose, or stopping with a structured plan. The right path depends on your health history and goals.
What to Expect After the Last Shot
After stopping a GLP-1, appetite often returns and some weight regain is common. In the STEP 1 extension analysis, participants who stopped semaglutide regained a substantial portion of lost weight within a year, highlighting the need for ongoing treatment or active maintenance. Conversely, staying on therapy helped participants maintain or even continue losing weight in the STEP 4 trial.
Your GLP-1 Maintenance Plan
Decide: Continue, Taper, or Stop Many patients benefit from continuing GLP-1 therapy long term or stepping down to the lowest effective dose. These medications are approved for chronic weight management. If stopping, do so with a structured plan.
Consider a gradual taper Observational data suggest that tapering GLP-1s with coaching may help stabilize weight during the first 6 months after discontinuation, though high-quality trials are limited. Treat this as a supportive strategy, not a guarantee.
Lock in a simple nutrition routine
Regular meals with lean protein, fiber, and non-starchy vegetables
Minimize liquid calories and processed snacks
Maintain a few “default” meals for busy days
Strength training and movement
At least 150 minutes per week of moderate activity
Two days of resistance training to preserve muscle and metabolism
Monitor and act early
Weigh weekly
If you gain more than 2–5 pounds over 2 weeks, schedule a telehealth check-in. Early action is easier than correcting larger gains.
Sleep, stress, and medications check
Poor sleep and certain medications can increase appetite. Ask your clinician about weight-neutral alternatives.
If Weight Starts to Creep Back
Resume your prior effective GLP-1 dose briefly
Consider switching to another anti-obesity medication, such as tirzepatide
Implement a focused 4–8 week lifestyle reset STEP 4 data show that ongoing treatment works when needed.
How Telehealth Supports You Next
Contact our care team at [email protected] as you approach your final injection or if you are considering pausing. We will help you decide your next move.
Bottom Line
Your last shot is not the end. With a clear GLP-1 maintenance plan and regular check-ins with our care team, you can maintain weight loss and overall well-being long term.