Weight loss medications have opened new doors in the weight management journey for many people living with obesity. However, if you’ve been taking these medications and notice your progress stalling—known as a “weight loss plateau”—you’re not alone. Here’s what might be going on and how to address it.
Why Weight Loss Plateaus Happen
These medications work by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1 that slows digestion, helps you feel full faster, and ultimately leads to weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that some people can lose up to 15% of their body weight on these medications.
However, every person’s journey is unique. Obesity specialists emphasize that these numbers are averages—not guarantees. Some people may lose more weight, some less, and some may not lose weight at all.
Obesity physician Dr. Yves Robitaille has shared that there’s no single cause for a plateau. Weight loss plateaus typically occur around 12 months after starting treatment. Genetics, medical history, stress, sleep, diet, exercise, and even the gut microbiome can all play a role. When your body adapts to changes in appetite, activity, and metabolism, it can temporarily halt weight loss—even on medications.
Common Reasons for Hitting a Plateau
1. Your Dose Might Need An Adjustment
Weight loss medications typically start at a low dose to improve the ability to tolerate side effects. Over time, you may need a higher dose to see continued weight loss. If you’re not seeing results, talk to your healthcare provider about your current dose. Some people who use these medications only see weight loss resume after their dose is increased.
2. Lifestyle Factors May Be Overlooked
These medications are powerful tools, but they work best when combined with lifestyle changes. Weight expert Dr. Judy Shiau emphasizes that diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management are key pieces of the puzzle. If your weight loss has stalled, review your diet with a dietitian or track your food intake and activity levels to spot gaps or areas for improvement.
3. Stress and Sleep Disruptions
Chronic stress and poor sleep can sabotage weight loss by triggering cravings for sugary, fatty foods and disrupting hormones that regulate appetite. If stress or lack of sleep is an issue for you, consider strategies like stress-reducing exercises, meditation, or prioritizing rest.
What You Can Do About It
1. Talk to Your Doctor or Healthcare Provider
If you’ve plateaued for weeks or months, it’s time for a conversation with your doctor / healthcare provider. You can talk with them about whether a higher dose of the medication might be an option and / or whether seeing a dietitian or an exercise expert to optimize lifestyle changes may help.
2. Focus On Milestones Instead.
Shifting your focus from the number on the scale to other health milestones (things like having more energy, your clothes fitting more comfortably, being able to move more / with less pain, etc.) can help you recognize the ways your life has improved because of the weight loss you’ve achieved. Make a list of “non-scale victories” you’re already enjoying—it can help you stay motivated.
3. Log Your Diet and Activity
Start by tracking your calories, meals, exercise, stress levels, and sleep. Many people underestimate what they eat and overestimate their activity. A log can help you and your healthcare provider spot patterns and adjust your plan.
4. Consider An Alternative Medication
Some patients who plateau on a medication may respond better to a different medication. There are several different medications available now that have different effects and switching medications may be a good option if you’ve stopped seeing progress.
The Big Picture: Plateaus Are Part of the Journey
Plateaus can feel frustrating, but they’re a normal part of weight loss. As weight expert Dr. Anil Maheshwari says, medications are tools to support lifestyle changes, not quick fixes.
If you’re experiencing a plateau:
✅ Stay patient
✅ Keep tracking your progress
✅ Work closely with your healthcare team
Your weight loss journey is personal. A plateau doesn’t mean you’ve failed—it’s a sign that your body has adapted and might need a new approach. With the right support and tweaks to your plan, you can move past it and keep working toward your health goals.
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Note: Anyone prescribed these medications should read the medication guide for the full list of side effects and use instructions. In addition, these medications should only be prescribed under the care of a physician.
The medical information on My Weight – What To Know’s website is provided as an information resource only. The content is not in any way intended to be nor should you rely on it as a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, advice and treatment.
