u/amyy097

Hey everyone,

I’ve been on GLP-1s for over a year and on Zepbound since late 2025. I started at 300 lbs, hit a low of 213 lbs last week, and my ultimate goal is 160 lbs (nearly 80 lbs lost so far!).

Recently, I’ve hit two major hurdles and could really use some perspective or advice:

1. Needle Phobia / Anxiety: About 4 months ago, I developed a severe fear of needles out of nowhere. Now, I gag or nearly throw up every single time I have to take my shot.
2. Rapid Rebound: Because of the shot anxiety, I delayed my dose past the 7-day window this past week. Within just a day or two of missing the mark, my weight jumped right back up to 223 lbs (+10 lbs in a week!).

Seeing how fast the scale bounced back from just a slight delay is terrifying. It makes me worry that once I stop Zepbound entirely, all my progress will reverse instantly. Because the needle anxiety is getting so bad, I might have to end my Zepbound journey sooner than planned.

A couple of questions for the community:

• Non-injectable options: Have any of you found daily oral alternatives that insurance actually covers? (My insurance denied Rybelsus/oral semaglutide options).
• Life after Zepbound: For those who have reached their goal or had to stop taking Zepbound/GLP-1s, what strategies or habits have worked best to keep the weight off? How do you manage the hunger rebound?

Thanks in advance for any insights—this mental battle with the needle is getting tough!