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Dr Ruch Karunadasa

Authored on 13 January 2026 by Dr Ruch Karunadasa,

Reviewed 13 January 2026 by Mr Adeel Arshad.

What to Expect When You Stop 7.2mg Wegovy

If you have decided to stop taking Wegovy 7.2mg, you may have reached this point for a number of personal, medical, or practical reasons. Whatever your situation, it is helpful to understand what typically happens next and what options you may wish to consider.

Broadly, there are three approaches to discontinuing Wegovy:

  • Stopping suddenly (“cold turkey”)
  • Gradually reducing your dose and then stopping
  • Reducing your dose and continuing long‑term at a lower level

Stopping Wegovy 7.2mg Suddenly

Current evidence suggests that stopping Wegovy abruptly is not harmful from a dependency point of view. Unlike certain medicines, Wegovy is not known to cause withdrawal symptoms linked to chemical dependence.

Wegovy has an approximate half-life of one week. This means the concentration in your body reduces by half every seven days:

  • After 1 week: ~50% remaining
  • After 2 weeks: ~25%
  • After 3 weeks: ~12.5%
  • After 4 weeks: ~6.25%
  • After 5 weeks: ~3.125%

Most of the medication is cleared after around 5–7 weeks, although this can vary according to body weight and metabolic factors. Wegovy is eliminated through urine and faeces.

In practice, you may continue to feel some effect of the medication for several weeks after your final dose. Hunger signals usually return gradually, and you may notice changes to your digestion. These effects are expected and not harmful, but they can lead to weight regain if no lifestyle adjustments are made.

Evidence published in the British Medical Journal shows that some individuals may return to their pre-treatment weight within approximately 18 months. Those who have established sustainable eating and exercise habits tend to maintain their progress more effectively.

If stopping suddenly, consider focusing on balanced meals containing protein and slow‑release carbohydrates, as well as maintaining or increasing your level of physical activity. Meal replacements or nutritional supplements may suit some individuals, although whole foods remain preferable for most people.

Gradually Reducing the Dose Before Stopping

A gradual reduction allows you to observe how your appetite and behaviours change as the dose decreases. Many patients find this approach helpful, as it gives time to adjust and implement lifestyle strategies before stopping completely.

This approach may be especially suitable for people who have achieved significant weight loss and want to minimise the risk of regaining weight. Unless there is a clear medical or financial reason to stop immediately, tapering offers a structured way to assess your longer‑term needs.

As with sudden cessation, support around nutrition, physical activity, and behavioural habits is essential to maintain your progress.

Reducing the Dose and Continuing Long‑Term

Some people choose to continue Wegovy at a lower maintenance dose once they have reached their target weight. Although research is ongoing, early evidence suggests that GLP‑1 medicines may eventually be used in the same way as other long‑term treatments such as those for high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

Obesity is increasingly understood as a complex metabolic condition influenced by biological, genetic, and environmental factors. For some individuals, long‑term medication may be an appropriate and clinically safe option. Research indicates potential benefits including reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and possibly cognitive decline.

However, this is a highly individual decision that should always be made with the support of a healthcare professional.

Discussing Your Options

Everyone’s experience with Wegovy is different, and there is no single correct approach to stopping or adjusting treatment. The safest and most effective way to navigate this part of your weight loss journey is to speak with a clinician who can discuss your goals, health background, and any concerns you may have.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about medication, dosage changes, or treatment plans.

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