Side effects coming off Mounjaro

There can be side effects associated with reducing your dose of Mounjaro or coming off it completely.

Mounjaro works by suppressing appetite, slowing digestion, and promoting a feeling of fullness. However, when stopping Mounjaro—whether due to personal choice, availability issues, or side effects— patients can often experience withdrawal-like effects. Understanding these side effects can help you manage the transition effectively and maintain your progress.

 

Increased Appetite and Weight Gain

One of the biggest challenges when coming off Mounjaro is increased hunger. Since Mounjaro’s active ingredient (tirzepatide) helps regulate hunger hormones, stopping it can lead to a rise in cravings and a stronger appetite, making it harder to maintain weight loss. Some people also experience rapid weight regain, particularly if they don’t adjust their diet after stopping.

 

tip

To help prevent weight rebound, try to stick to structured meal planning, prioritize protein-rich foods, and practice mindful eating to stay in control of hunger cues.

Digestive Issues

Mounjaro slows down digestion, which helps you feel fuller for longer. After stopping the medication, your digestive system may adjust in the following ways:

  • Increased hunger and faster digestion
  • Bloating or gas due to dietary changes
  • Mild nausea or stomach discomfort as the gut readjusts
tip

Eating smaller, balanced meals throughout the day and including plenty of fibre can help keep your digestion stable.

Fatigue and Low Energy

Some people feel tired or sluggish after stopping Mounjaro. This can happen because:

  • Your body is no longer receiving the appetite-regulating effects of the medication.
  • Changes in eating habits can lead to energy fluctuations.
  • Metabolism shifts may impact how efficiently your body burns calories.
tip
Staying active, drinking plenty of water, and maintaining a nutrient-rich diet (with proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs) can help fight fatigue.

Mood swings and increased "food noise"

Since Mounjaro helps control appetite and cravings, stopping it can lead to stronger urges for high-calorie, high-carb, or sugary foods. Some people also experience mood swings, frustration, or irritability, particularly if they relied on Mounjaro to manage emotional eating.

tip

Identify non-food coping strategies for cravings, such as staying active, engaging in hobbies, or practicing mindfulness and meditation.

Gastrointestinal rebound symptoms

While starting Mounjaro often causes nausea or digestive issues, stopping it can also trigger temporary stomach discomfort as your gut adjusts. Some people report:

  • Diarrhea or loose stools
  • Constipation
  • Mild stomach cramps

How to safely come off Mounjaro

If you’re planning to stop Mounjaro, it’s best to do so gradually and with a plan in place. Here’s some advice for coming off the medication while maintaining weight loss:

✅ continue healthy eating habits – stick to a well-balanced diet to avoid rapid weight regain.
✅ stay hydrated – proper hydration supports digestion and energy levels.
✅ increase physical activity – regular movement can help stabilize metabolism and energy levels.
✅ monitor appetite changes – be mindful of cravings and plan meals in advance to stay in control.
✅ seek medical advice – if you experience severe side effects, consult a healthcare provider for support.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Medic Spot Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but makes no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. In the event of an emergency, please call 999 for immediate assistance.

There is no guarantee of a specific weight loss medication being prescribed. Clinicians will review your online questionnaire alongside other independently validated medical information about you and will recommend the most appropriate weight loss treatments for you based on your answers. In some cases the clinicians may contact you for additional information. See Terms of Service for more information.