How to switch from GLP-1 injections to pills

How do you switch from weight loss injections to pills?

Switching from weight loss injections to pills is more straightforward than you might think. Typically, if you're on weight loss injections, you’ll also qualify for the pills.

If you have any questions, our clinicians and the information below can help clarify details regarding the wait time before starting weight loss pills, the doses, and whether the pills are suitable for you.

Medically reviewed by

Alexandra Cristina Cowell, Writer & Clinical Content Reviewer

Your BMI

To be eligible for weight loss pills, you need to have a BMI of over 30, or over 27 with one weight-related comorbidity, such as diabetes.

If you’re switching from injections, your BMI might be below these criteria. But this doesn’t necessarily mean you can't qualify for the pills. If you have already reached your goal weight, your clinician might suggest one of the following options:

Continuing with injections at the maintenance dose or a slightly lower dose to maintain weight.
Switching to weight loss pills to help maintain your weight.

They may also recommend stopping treatment altogether (generally after gradually reducing your dose) to see how you manage without any medication. If you experience weight gain, they may consider restarting treatment.

Your clinician will also check your progress so far by reviewing your initial weight when you started your weight loss journey and comparing it to your current BMI. This will help them determine the correct dosage and treatment for you.

Your contraindications

Your clinician will also review your medical history for any existing conditions, potential allergies, or medications that you take that might interact with the treatment. If you have or have a history of diabetic ketoacidosis, you won’t be suitable for oral semaglutide.

Whether it’s safe for you to fast

You need to fast when taking oral semaglutide. It should be taken on an empty stomach after fasting for eight hours. After taking it, you continue fasting for another 30 minutes, meaning you can’t eat food for a total of 8.5 hours.

Some people may struggle to fast or may be advised against it, such as those who have type 1 diabetes, as fasting can cause very low blood sugar levels. Additionally, people with chronic kidney disease may be affected by fasting, as it can lead to dehydration, which could impact kidney function. Some individuals may also find it difficult to abstain from food for that many hours. Depending on your circumstances, your clinician will determine whether oral semaglutide is right for you.