Weight loss medications have helped many people with obesity reach a healthier weight. But sometimes, after a few months, the weight loss stops. This is called a plateau—and it’s very common.
Here’s why it happens and what you can do.
Why Weight Loss Plateaus Happen
Many weight loss medications work by copying a hormone called GLP-1. This hormone helps you feel full sooner and slows digestion. That helps you eat less and lose weight. Some people may lose up to 15% of their weight on these medications.
But everyone is different. Some people lose more weight, and some lose less. Some may stop losing weight after a while.
Plateaus can happen for many reasons. They often show up around 12 months after starting the medicine. Things like genetics, sleep, stress, diet, exercise, and even gut bacteria can all play a role.
Over time, your body can adjust to the medicine and lifestyle changes, which may cause weight loss to slow down or pause for a while.
Why You Might Be Stuck
1. Your Dose Might Need to Change
These medications usually start at a low dose and increase over time. If your weight loss has stopped, your doctor can help you decide if it’s time to go up to a higher dose.
2. Healthy Habits Still Matter
The medicine works best when you also eat well, move your body, sleep enough, and manage stress. A dietitian can help you look at your meals and activity and make small changes that work.
3. Stress and Sleep Could Be the Problem
When you’re stressed or not sleeping well, your body craves more junk food and it can be harder to stick with healthy habits. Try stress-reducing habits like walking, deep breathing, or getting more sleep. These changes can really help.
What You Can Do
✅ Talk to Your Doctor
If your weight hasn’t changed in a few weeks or months, talk to your doctor or healthcare provider. They might change your dose, suggest a new plan, or help you meet with a dietitian or exercise expert.
✅ Look at Other Wins
Even if the scale hasn’t moved, your body might still be changing. Maybe you:
- Have more energy
- Sleep better
- Fit into your clothes more easily
- Can walk farther or feel less pain
These are all great signs of improvement– some people call them “non-scale victories.” Try making a list to remind yourself of how far you’ve come—it can be a great way to stay motivated.
✅ Keep a Log
Write down what you eat, how much you move, how you sleep, and how you feel. Many people eat more than they realize or move less than they think. A log can help you and your doctor find ways to keep making progress.
✅ Ask About a Different Medication
If one medicine isn’t working as well as it used to, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. There are several different medications available, and sometimes switching to a different one can make a big difference. Your doctor can help you decide what’s right for you.
Big Picture: Plateaus Are Normal
It’s okay to feel frustrated when weight loss slows down. But this is a normal part of the journey. Weight loss medications are tools, not magic solutions. They work best when you also focus on healthy habits.
If you hit a plateau:
- Be patient
- Keep tracking your habits
- Stay in touch with your doctor
A plateau doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It just means your body is adjusting—and with some support, you can keep moving forward.
Sources
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (2024). Why is weight loss so hard? https://www.niddk.nih.gov
- Obesity Canada. (2023). Understanding Weight Plateaus. https://obesitycanada.ca
