Phoebe WilsonGreg Davies, the comedian and Taskmaster host who presented the BAFTA Television Awards tonight at London's Royal Festival Hall, has disclosed an unexpected consequence of his weight-loss journey. After taking Ozempic to lose three stone, Davies told The Times that his appetite has never fully recovered — and that he "can't ram things in the way I used to." The revelation has prompted wider questions about what UK patients should expect when they stop GLP-1 medications, and when a doctor's input becomes essential.
What Greg Davies Said About Ozempic
Davies, known for his imposing 6-foot-6 frame, said he turned to semaglutide (Ozempic) after receiving comments about his weight. The three stone came off, but he was unhappy with the results, describing the outcome as making him look "gaunt." He stopped the medication and regained around half the lost weight.
The surprising detail was the lasting appetite change. "My appetite's never gone back to the way it was," he said. For someone who had never previously struggled with overeating, the shift was notable — and medically relevant. GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide work partly by slowing gastric emptying and suppressing appetite signals in the brain. For many patients, these effects can persist for weeks or months after stopping.
Davies is now hosting the 2026 BAFTA Television Awards — which saw Adolescence dominate the evening — and his disclosure has brought the Ozempic conversation back into UK living rooms.
How GLP-1 Medications Change Appetite Signals
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) mimics the GLP-1 hormone that the gut releases after eating. It signals the brain to reduce hunger and delays stomach emptying. These mechanisms were designed for managing type 2 diabetes and, more recently, obesity — but they also affect how patients experience hunger after stopping the drug.
According to NHS guidance on obesity treatment and weight management medications, patients should discuss their individual circumstances with a GP before starting or stopping GLP-1 medications. Weight regain after stopping is common, though the rate varies significantly between individuals. The appetite reset that Davies describes — a permanent recalibration of baseline hunger — is less commonly discussed but is a recognised feature of GLP-1 treatment.
A GP with experience in weight management explained the mechanism: "When patients stop Ozempic, their ghrelin levels — the hunger hormone — gradually return. But the pattern is not uniform. Some patients find their set-point has shifted slightly. This is not always a problem, but it is worth monitoring, particularly if it affects diet quality or leads to unintended restriction."
When Appetite Changes Require Medical Attention
Not every change in appetite after stopping a GLP-1 medication warrants an urgent GP appointment — but several signs do:
Persistent nausea or inability to eat normally. If patients find they cannot meet basic caloric or nutritional needs weeks after stopping, this can lead to deficiencies in vitamins B12, D, and iron. A GP can arrange blood tests to check.
Rebound overeating. Some patients experience a pronounced hunger rebound when GLP-1 effects wear off, which can lead to rapid weight regain and psychological distress. A nutrition specialist or GP can help manage the transition.
Disordered eating patterns. The appetite-suppression of semaglutide can mask or interact with underlying eating patterns. If stopping the medication triggers anxious or compulsive eating, speaking to a GP or a registered dietitian is advisable.
Pre-existing diabetes. Patients who were taking Ozempic for blood glucose control — not just weight loss — face additional risks if they stop without a structured plan. Blood sugar management needs careful review.
If you are unsure whether your symptoms are expected or cause for concern, ExpertZoom connects UK patients with qualified GPs and health specialists who can offer regulated, personalised guidance.
The Wider Ozempic Picture in the UK
Greg Davies' disclosure adds to a growing body of celebrity accounts that have shaped UK public understanding of GLP-1 medications. Sharon Osbourne warned about extreme weight loss, and Alison Hammond's health transformation raised questions about which patients benefit most. The common thread across these accounts is the same one that GPs observe in clinical practice: individual responses to semaglutide vary enormously, and self-managing the drug without professional oversight carries real risks.
As of 2026, Ozempic and Wegovy remain prescription-only medications in the UK. The MHRA continues to receive reports of adverse effects, including gastrointestinal complications and rare cases of pancreatitis. The growth of online prescribing platforms has made the medications easier to access — but also raises questions about whether patients receive adequate follow-up care.
What to Ask a Doctor Before Stopping Ozempic
If you are currently on a GLP-1 medication and considering stopping, the following questions are worth raising with your GP:
- What is the expected timeline for appetite to return to baseline?
- Should I taper the dose or stop immediately?
- What are the risks to my blood sugar or cardiovascular profile?
- Is there a structured plan for maintaining weight loss outcomes?
- Are there signs to watch for that would indicate I need to come back sooner?
A GP consultation before making this decision is always the safest course. ExpertZoom can help you find a qualified health practitioner who understands GLP-1 medications and can give you the personalised guidance your situation requires.
A Comedian's Candour, a Medical Reminder
Greg Davies has a habit of discussing personal matters with surprising openness — it is part of what makes him an effective host. His candid account of the Ozempic experience is a useful reminder that medications with powerful short-term effects can have longer-lasting consequences that deserve professional attention. If your own appetite or health has shifted after taking GLP-1 drugs, a conversation with a specialist is the right first step.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about medication decisions.
