tapering off GLP-1

The Nurses’s RX no. 9: Real talk: Am I staying on these meds forever?

Published on April 18, 2026April 1, 2026 by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

So here’s the thing…

I get asked all the time if I’m planning on staying on a GLP-1 forever. For me personally? The answer is a hard yes. But before you panic, that doesn’t mean you’ll have to.

I actually had a little “accidental experiment” last week. I totally forgot to take my shot, and by the time I realized it, the week was halfway over, so I figured I’d just wait. Well, here I am due for my next dose and OH EM GEE. The joint swelling is so real. I can literally feel the inflammation in my body, and it is no joke y’all!

That alone is one reason why I plan to stay on at least a microdose for the long haul.

I’ll also keep it 100 with you: the food noise definitely creeped back in hardcore over the last two days. The good news? I’m still maintaining my 94lb weight loss within an acceptable fluctuation range, but the mental load of that food noise is something I’m happy to leave behind.

Why I’m choosing the “forever” route:

Hormonal Harmony: For the first time in my life (outside of being pregnant), I actually feel balanced.
Heart Health: Given my personal and family history, the cardioprotective features of these medications are a huge priority for me.
Managing PCOS: Even when my labs look “normal,” I know I’ll always have some level of insulin resistance and metabolic disorder. I’d much rather manage that with a GLP-1 than let it get out of hand.

Staying on this medication isn’t a sign that “it didn’t work” because I still need it. To me, it’s about accepting that I have chronic conditions that I am finally able to manage with one single medication instead of several. It’s honestly such a relief.

What this means for YOU

None of this means you’re “stuck” on them. If you and your doctor decide that coming off is the right move for your body, that is amazing! Just know that if you do stop and notice the weight creeping back up or that old food noise getting loud again, you can always use the meds for short periods to reset and restore.

It’s about having the tools in your kit, not about being “perfect.”

Are you worried about the “forever” aspect of weight loss meds, or are you just taking it one shot at a time? Reply and let’s chat!

XOXO,
NIKI, RN

PCOS. Perimenopause. Metabolic health. The real stuff. Not just “eat less, move more.”

ask me anything

trusted wellness tools

Not sure where to start? Take my free quiz and I’ll send you a custom plan.
WHAT’S RIGHT FOR MY BODY?
P.S. Missed the previous editions of The Nurse’s RX?
↓ Catch up here ↓
READ PAST EDITIONS

↓ LET’S CONNECT ↓

_{Let’s be clear about who I am (and who I’m not)}

_{I’m a registered nurse and health coach who shares real, BS-free information about metabolic health, PCOS, perimenopause, and weight loss, because y’all deserve better than vague wellness fluff. But here’s what I need you to know: I am not YOUR nurse. Everything I share here is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice, it’s not a diagnosis, and it doesn’t create a provider-patient relationship between us. Nothing here replaces the care of a licensed provider who actually knows your full health history. The opinions and content here are my own and do not reflect the views of my employer or the hospital where I work.}

_{Scope of practice}

_{As a nurse health coach, I can recommend over-the-counter products and supplements that may support your wellness goals. I don’t prescribe specific prescription medications. When it comes to GLP-1s and peptides, what I can do is talk about the science, what’s available, and what may be beneficial, so you can have an informed conversation with your licensed medical provider. The decision about what’s right for your body always belongs to you and your provider. Always consult your licensed provider before starting any prescription treatment. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.}

_Transparency

_{I only recommend things I actually trust. Most are products I personally use, some are from partners whose clinical standards I believe in. I will always let you know when it’s something I haven’t tried personally. Some links in this email are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.}

_{Results + Testimonials}

_{Any testimonials or results shared here reflect individual experiences only. Results are not guaranteed and will vary based on individual circumstances.}

_{Read the full fine print at nicoleinscrubs.com/disclosure}

The Nurses’s RX no. 5: Girl, Your Metabolism Needs This

Published on April 3, 2026April 1, 2026 by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

Okay soooo….

Let’s talk about the absolute most frustrating thing in weightloss: the feeling that your body is a total energy hog. You’re moving your tushie, you’re eating your protein, drinking your water, and eating that fiber to stay running smooth (IYKYK), but when you look in the mirror, your fat stores are just waving back at you like, “Nope, still here!”

You are NOT failing. This is simply a matter of chemistry. This is why I’m breaking down L-Carnitine today, it’s the chemical assistant your system may be missing.

L-Carnitine Can Help

The Energy Crash::

You feel constantly drained because your cells aren’t getting the right fuel.

The Muscle Hangover::

You are totally wiped out and sore for days after a good workout.

The Stubborn Fat::

Your body isn’t using its stored fat for energy, so it just sits there.

I know we've covered this, but quick refresher: Amino acids are the basic building blocks of your body. Think of them as the individual beads on a long necklace, all working together to create the necklace. Lose one and it all falls apart. L-Carnitine is one of those crucial beads, and it has the most important job in your cell's engine room.

Your fat is your cells’ most powerful fuel, but the engine that burns everything up (your mitochondria) is tiny.

It’s like having a giant frozen pizza (your fat fuel), but all you have is a toaster oven. The oven will only fit one slice at a time!

L-Carnitine is your specialized tool. It’s like your pizza cutter, it cuts the bulky fat down into individual slices, ready to cook and use for massive energy.

L-Carnitine makes sure your body is working smarter, not harder.

Because L-Carnitine makes fat a better fuel source, it helps your body prioritize burning fat for energy. This is super important because it reduces the need to break down other valuable energy sources, like your muscle tissue. It helps keep your muscle strong while you lose the weight.

This is why L-Carnitine is one of the new, customized GLP-1 options available with EllieMD to tailor your weight-loss and wellness journey to your personal needs.

Let’s Get This Started!

START TODAY

XOXO,
NIKI, RN

PCOS. Perimenopause. Metabolic health. The real stuff. Not just “eat less, move more.”

ask me anything

trusted wellness tools

↓ LET’S CONNECT ↓

_{Let’s be clear about who I am (and who I’m not)}

_{Scope of practice}

_Transparency

_{Results + Testimonials}

_{Any testimonials or results shared here reflect individual experiences only. Results are not guaranteed and will vary based on individual circumstances.}

_{Read the full fine print at nicoleinscrubs.com/disclosure}

Key Lime Pie protein bar by Barebells on a tropical background, a healthy snack idea for GLP-1 maintenance.

How to Handle Snack Cravings and Maintain Weight Loss on a GLP-1

Published on March 15, 2026March 27, 2026 by J. Nicole, RNLeave a comment

If you’re like me and find yourself stuck in the house for a few days, you might be feeling a little extra snacky! I know I definitely do. That is totally my M.O. though. I always snack way more when I am chillin at home than when I’m at work on a busy shift in the NICU or out running errands.

Healthy Snacks for Your GLP-1 Weight Loss Journey

The biggest difference for me now, especially after losing 94 pounds, is that I don’t eat the massive quantities I used to. I also typically reach for healthier options. My go-to snacks include That’s It fruit bars, protein bars that actually taste like candy, protein chips, and granola bars.

Do I still cave and have a fun-size Snickers?

You bet I do!

But I don’t eat the whole bag. And I absolutely do not feel guilty over wanting and having a Snickers once in a blue moon now. That is exactly what happens when you use these medications as a tool and not just a quick fix.

Navigating GLP-1 Maintenance: How to Taper Off GLP-1 Medication

This is also a huge part of where I am on my own wellness journey right now. I am well into maintenance, but I’m also slowly decreasing my dosing to allow for a slightly higher food intake than when I was actively losing weight. Finding yourself stuck at home for a few days can really test that balance! I’m in that tricky spot between increasing my intake & decreasing my dose, making sure not to do either one too quickly or too slowly.

I don’t want to lose any more weight, but I also don’t want to gain more than a few pounds in the process, so I can maintain my other health goals, like my lower blood pressure.

Maintenance isn’t always as easy as it looks on the gram. But I have amazing tools and resources at my fingertips with EllieMD to keep it going!

Will I Gain Weight if I Stop Taking My GLP-1?

It’s completely normal to worry about the weight coming right back the second you stop your medication. This is a super common question!

If you start or continue your GLP-1 journey with me, I will be your ultimate nurse hype girl. I will help you learn how to make better choices that keep you full longer so you can continue these healthy habits when you are ready to come off the meds.

It’s totally okay to do a slow taper off if that makes you feel more comfortable. You can ease into doing it all on your own by planning your taper doses directly with your doctor. If you notice the scale creeping up during your taper, that’s when we will plan the right diet and activity adjustments to help you maintain your current weight. Then, if the weight starts creeping back up after you are completely off the medications, you can talk to your provider about how a short-term microdose might be beneficial.

Depending on your personal health history, like mine with PCOS, it’s also completely fine if you need to be on these medications long term. It is totally up to you and your doctor to decide if that is the right choice for your body.

Want to talk about this with me?

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A FREE 15 MIN CALL WITH ME

OR YOU CAN JUST TEXT ME YOUR QUESTIONS

_{Professional Disclosure: I provide BS-free metabolic education as a registered nurse and health coach for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, and stubborn weight loss. While I share evidence-based research and nurse-informed support, please remember that I am not your nurse. The content shared here is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and it does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Nothing on this site is a substitute for care from a licensed provider who knows your full health history. All opinions and content shared on this platform are my own and do not reflect the views or endorsements of my employer or the hospital where I am employed.}

_{Scope of Practice and FDA: Per professional coaching guidelines, I may recommend over the counter (OTC) medications or supplements to support your wellness goals. However, I do not prescribe or recommend specific prescription medications. For prescription options, including GLP-1 tools, my role is to help you understand the available science so you can have an informed discussion with your licensed healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, and medical treatments require professional oversight.}

_{Trust and Transparency: I only recommend products I trust. Most are items I use personally, while others are shared based on my professional trust in the clinical standards of partners like Ellie MD. Some links are affiliate links or part of brand partnerships, which means I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.}