Feeling exhausted on weight loss drugs? Quick tips to get your energy back
Ed Milner, Robert Price | Last update: 28th July 2025
Does the mid afternoon climb up the stairs feel like a feat too far, or are you knackered after even a short dog walk? Lots of us feel unusually tired while taking weight loss drugs – so don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many SlimrChat members have found that they struggled with energy when they first started their weight loss journey with GLP-1 treatments, like Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda. The good news is that after some trial and error most have found ways to counter the fatigue and boost their energy levels. Everyone is different so you’ll find some things work for you while others don’t. Understanding why tiredness happens and how to address it will help you regain your energy and stay motivated (without reaching for that afternoon packet of biscuits)
What causes the tiredness?
The weight loss drugs work by slowing digestion and regulating appetite. While these effects are crucial for weight loss, they can alter your metabolism and energy levels as your body adapts and this makes you feel tired…a little more Eeyore than Tigger.
Key reasons for fatigue and feeling exhausted:
- Caloric deficit: Eating less means less fuel for your body, potentially causing tiredness.
- Slower digestion: The delay in gastric emptying (the time it takes for food to empty your stomach) can affect your energy levels.
- Adjustments in metabolism: Your body is recalibrating, which can leave you feeling drained.
Boosting energy naturally
Small changes to your routine can have a significant impact on your energy levels. SlimrChat founder and weight loss drug winner, Robert Price, gives us some of his practical steps to help:
1. Fuel your body with nutrient-rich foods
- Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. It sounds boring but I felt a 100% better when I ate like this. And without the food noise, you soon get into a healthier routine.
- Include healthy fats, such as avocados and nuts; they really do provide sustained energy.
2. Stay hydrated
- Dehydration can exacerbate fatigue, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. Everyone has those huge water bottles now. Keep one on you during the day, although be mindful you may have to go to the loo a little more (although this could just be my age).
- Herbal teas or water infused with fruits can be a refreshing (and easy) way to stay hydrated.
3. Balance activity levels
- Move, move, move. Engaging in light physical activities, such as walking or yoga, will boost circulation and combat lethargy.
- Avoid overexerting yourself, as it can worsen fatigue; but if you’re feeling energetic, go for it.
Sleep and stress management
As I’ve got older, sleep is way higher on my priority list. And proper rest and stress reduction are critical to maintaining energy whilst using the treatments.
1. Build healthy sleep habits
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Not always easy, but staying in bed, even if you’re just resting will help.
- Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, such as reading or meditating.
- Keep your sleeping environment cool, dark, and quiet.
2. Manage stress effectively
- Having had quite senior, and often stressful jobs, this hasn’t always been so simple to follow. But try and make time to practice mindfulness or breathing exercises to reduce stress.
- Consider journaling to process emotions and clear your mind.
- Connect with supportive communities, like SlimrChat, to share experiences and stay motivated.
Regain your energy and focus
Fatigue can feel like a hurdle, but it’s often just temporary as your body adjusts to the treatment. By prioritising nutrition, hydration, rest, and stress management, you really can reclaim your energy and stay on track with your weight-loss goals.
Other side effects you may be experiencing
Weight-loss medications can be really effective, but like all treatments, they can come with side effects. Not everyone experiences them, and for most, they are temporary and manageable but some of the more common are nausea, constipation and bloating. Check out our other articles on side effects, why they happen, what you may experience and how you can manage them:
Feeling bloated? Tips to ease the discomfort
Beating nausea: your simple fixes for the most common GLP-1 side effect
Have you experienced tiredness on GLP-1 treatments? Share your tips and experiences with the SlimrChat community. Help others find their energy today – click the button below and join the chat now!