Loss of Drive / Motivation
Users on Reddit report experiencing a loss of drive and motivation, sometimes described as anhedonia or a 'joyless life,' while taking GLP-1 medications. This can manifest as a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, including exercise, and a general feeling of fatigue or emotional suppression.
Experiences with Loss of Drive / Motivation:
Another user experienced anhedonia with tirzepatide: "I'm on tirzepatide and the anhedonia is very real. I felt horribly down at the beginning of the month. "[1]
Fatigue is a commonly reported side effect that can contribute to a lack of motivation. A user mentioned, "I've lost 35 lbs, but I'm fatigued all the time. "[6] Another said, "Both of us experienced nausea, severe loss of appetite, and general fatigue. "[7]
Some users feel the medication suppresses emotions. One individual noted, "it also feels like the medication suppresses emotions a bit. "[6]
The loss of motivation can impact daily activities and even basic self-care. A user shared, "even going downstairs to get a protein shake is hard. "[2]
The impact on motivation can be particularly challenging for individuals with ADHD. One user explained, "Since ADHD already has a hard time with motivation, not getting a reward from doing even healthy activities, makes it much harder to do anything at all. "[3]
A user on liraglutide reported, "I can't motivate myself to vacuum because there's no sense of reward or accomplishment when I'm finished. Just fatigue and a sense that I could have spent that time doing something I actually enjoy. "[9]
One user on Wegovy for 6 months said, "I was exhausted all the time and felt like a dead battery. I would get home from work and just sleep. I also developed anhedonia. " This user further explained, "GLP-1s can alter the dopamine reward system in the brain. It helps you lose weight when you don't get a dopamine hit from food anymore. But it's not good when you don't get a dopamine hit from anything anymore, like finishing a work task or your hobbies. "[13]
Another user described the impact on their ADHD stimulant medication: "I feel like the glp-1 pretty much negates my ADHD stimulant... Before starting glp-1 I would get a few decent hours of focused work in the morning, whereas a year into the glp i struggle hard core to stay on track. "[10]
Some users find that the lack of motivation or anhedonia can wear off over time or with dose adjustments. One user mentioned the anhedonia effect "definitely wore off for me after a few months. "[4] Another said, "FWIW, mine wore off, I think it took about 6 months though. "[5]
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
Exercise: Despite the lack of motivation, some users emphasize the importance of exercise. One user mentioned, "I know exercise is the missing link to go further. "[11] Another, after losing weight, stated, "now I need to start exercising seriously and building muscle whilst maintaining a steady weight loss. "[8]
Managing Expectations and Lifestyle Changes: Some users stress that the medication is a tool and not a magic solution, requiring effort to build healthy habits. One user advised, "Use it, learn proper eating habits and work yourself off of it. "[14] Another commented, "You NEED to go into it thinking \"this is to help me get started, but i have to do all the hard work myself\" if you want to keep it off. "[15]
Dose Adjustment: A user suggested, "Try going down until side effects are non-existent or minimal.. and tolerable! If your body is comfortable, it will accept the medication easier and healthier. "[16]
Hydration and Nutrition: One user pointed out that for some, "Headaches and nausea are often a direct result of dehydration or inadequate nutrition intake," which could indirectly affect motivation and energy levels.
Experiences with Loss of Drive / Motivation:
- Several users describe a significant decrease in motivation and joy.
Remedies and Preventions Recommended:
- Protein Intake: Ensuring adequate protein intake is frequently mentioned.