Should you wait to start Mounjaro or Wegovy until after Christmas?
Robert Price | Last update: 4th November 2025
Are you considering starting weight loss jabs? Given the time of year you’ve probably had this thought:
“Hmmmmm, maybe I’ll wait until after Christmas.”
It’s a perfectly natural question to ask yourself. Christmas is only seven weeks away, or just under two jabs of treatment! And those weeks are likely to be busy with work parties, meeting friends and attending family events.
It’s a whole range of festive temptation. But is delaying your weight loss drug journey really the right move? Or could starting now actually make things easier?
Let’s see…
Why you might wait
There are some good reasons to hit pause until Boxing Day or the 1st January 2026.
Less social pressure
GLP-1 weight loss treatments can change your appetite quickly and that might feel awkward at Christmas parties, in the pub or family dinners. If you’d rather not navigate the “Why aren’t you eating much?” conversations, starting later might feel simpler.
Avoiding early side effects
The first few weeks of treatment can come with side effects. Common side effects include nausea, bloating and tiredness. If you’ve got big social plans, travel, or nights out, you might prefer to avoid adding that adjustment period into the mix.
Fresh start mindset
Some people find it easier to commit fully to new habits after Christmas. January can bring a clean slate, fewer distractions and more structure. At SlimrChat we always recommend building a plan for your weight loss journey for all your lifestyle changes and this may be easier after the Christmas period.
“I wanted a fresh start. I was worried I’d start in December and wilt under social pressure so I had Wegovy from January 1st. It’s been a brilliant year. This Christmas will be a breeze as a result!!” Tim, SlimrChat friend
Starting before Christmas
On the other hand, there are advantages to getting going right now.
You’ll be ahead of the January rush
In the past January was the time to start Weight Watchers, Slimming World or a similar programme. Now it’s common sense to think there will be huge demand for weight loss treatments. Pharmacies or private clinics will possibly be under stock pressure and the already overstretched NHS schemes even more stretched. Starting before Christmas may mean quicker access and less stress for you.
Early progress boosts your motivation
Even a few weeks of treatment can help you regain control of your appetite and start breaking old habits. That can help make your festive overeating a thing of the past and give you confidence to say no when celebrating.
You’ll learn how your body responds
Starting earlier gives you time to adjust to side effects in a calmer environment. You’ll know what foods sit well with you, what doesn’t and how to manage your dose before the new year begins.
SlimrChat community member Heather said: “I started MJ mid-November last year. I had a few side effects but I’m still so glad I si did it. Beginning my journey then was brilliant for my motivation. If I could lose weight at Christmas I knew I could do it any time!”
So, what’s the answer?
So…there isn’t a simple and straightforward answer, sorry!
It depends on you and your objectives, schedule, mindset and support network.
If you’re feeling ready and can take things gently over the festive season, there’s no reason to wait. Of course, you need to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider to be prescribed the treatments.
But if November and December are already stressful, or if you want to fully enjoy a traditional Christmas without adjusting to new medication, waiting until January is completely valid too.
Either way, the key is to plan ahead.
- Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider now so you understand when and how to start.
- Make sure you’ll have access to your medication (especially if you’re travelling).
- And think about what small changes, like slower eating, smaller portions, or more mindful drinking, you could kick off today.
That way, whether you start next week or next year, you’re already setting yourself up for success.
Share your thoughts and plans with the SlimrChat community in our forums, and have a look at the real life experiences of Lozzii, Laura, Emily, Katie and Jen.
We’d love to share your journey too. Mail us at [email protected] to get involved!