Ozempic, the once-weekly injection originally designed for people with type 2 diabetes, has exploded in popularity for its off-label use as a weight loss aid. But what happens if you decide to stop taking it—say, for a vacation or a break? Can you just start it up again later without any issues?
Ozempic could help the economy (Getty Stock)
Let’s break it down with expert advice and real-world research.
How Ozempic Actually Works
Ozempic (semaglutide) mimics a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1. This hormone stimulates insulin release, reduces blood sugar production in the liver, and slows digestion, which curbs appetite and boosts feelings of fullness. That’s why many users—celebs included—are turning to it for weight loss, even though it’s FDA-approved only for type 2 diabetes.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Ozempic?
According to Medical News Today, once you stop using Ozempic, its effects wear off, and so do the benefits. You may start feeling hungrier again, and any weight you lost could slowly creep back.
A 2022 study found that participants who stopped semaglutide and lifestyle changes regained two-thirds of their lost weight within a year. A 2024 follow-up study noted that consistent exercise may help keep weight off post-Ozempic.
‘Ozempic economy’ explained as research suggests drug could save US taxpayers $173,000,000,000 a year
If you’re taking Ozempic for diabetes, halting it could cause your blood sugar to spike, leading to symptoms like:
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- Excessive thirst
- Blurred vision
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue
- Nausea or vomiting
Is It Safe to Pause and Restart Ozempic?
Experts say no, not without medical guidance.
Ozempic is FDA approved to treat diabetes (Carolina Rudah/Getty Images)
Clinical nutritionist Mopelola Adeyemi from UCLA Health warns that skipping doses—even briefly—can reintroduce unpleasant side effects like nausea, constipation, or diarrhea when you restart.
If you’ve been off Ozempic for more than a few weeks, you may need to restart at a lower dose to allow your body to adjust again. Never treat it like a “take as needed” medication—it’s meant for consistent use.
Bottom Line: Talk to Your Doctor First
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic, emphasizes that any changes in usage should only happen under a doctor’s supervision. Ozempic is not a “vacation drug”—pausing and restarting at will can be risky.
For those using Ozempic during holidays or breaks, the focus should shift to healthy portion control and mindful eating rather than skipping doses.
If you’re considering pausing or restarting Ozempic, always consult your healthcare provider for a personalized plan that keeps your health goals on track.
Sources & Further Reading:
- FDA.gov – Ozempic Approval
- Medical News Today – What Happens If You Stop Ozempic?
- UCLA Health – Expert Insight
