FAQ for GLP-1 Patients: Initial Visit
How long will it take to notice weight loss?
Weight loss can vary among patients. Some notice weight loss right away, others can take one month or more. Consistency is important. Continue to take as directed and your provider will titrate your dose as needed to promote optimal weight loss tailored to your clinical needs. On average, 1-2 pounds per week (or 6-8 pounds per month) of weight loss is typically considered safe. That said, individual targets may vary and should be discussed with your weight management clinician. Please note that prior to every visit, you will need an updated weight, blood pressure and heart rate measurement.
What is a branded GLP-1 medication?
Branded GLP-1s, renowned for their groundbreaking applications in diabetes management, have emerged as a promising and innovative solution for individuals seeking effective and sustainable weight loss. Engineered by leading pharmaceutical companies, these GLP-1 receptor agonists harness the power of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 to not only regulate blood sugar levels but also to address the intricate interplay between metabolism and body weight.
The distinct feature that sets these branded GLP-1s apart in the realm of weight management is their ability to influence satiety and reduce appetite. The drugs work by mimicking GLP-1, a gut hormone produced naturally by your body that is involved in insulin release and appetite regulation. GLP-1 medications have been shown to encourage insulin release after you eat, while also inhibiting glucagon production and slowing down digestion. Together, these effects help to control blood sugar, reduce appetite, and lead to weight loss.
The medications are often accompanied by user-friendly delivery methods such as injectable pens. Currently, some GLP-1 medications are only FDA-approved to manage blood sugar levels or reduce cardiovascular risk in people with type 2 diabetes, like Ozempic and Mounjaro. Others, including Zepbound, Wegovy and Saxenda, are specifically approved for weight loss. However, health providers may prescribe medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro off-label for weight loss, if they feel the drug is the best option for their patient.
What is a compounded GLP-1 medication?
Drug compounding is often regarded as the process of combining, mixing or altering ingredients to create a medication tailored to the needs of an individual patient. Compounding includes the combining of two or more drugs. Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved. That said –
- We ensure that the ingredients used in the prescribed GLP-1 compounds are pharmaceutical grade and NOT research grade.
- We ensure that the GLP-1 medication is compounded using its base form and NOT its salt form.
- The compounding pharmacy conducts third-party quality testing to check for potency, sterility and the presence of toxins.
- We ensure complete due diligence of the compounding pharmacy, including but not limited to accreditations, licensures, and manufacturing/storage/tracking processes.
What are the most common side effects of GLP-1?
GI side effects are most common when initiating GLP-1 therapy. Nausea, diarrhea, constipation and lack of appetite are among the most common. Your provider may be able to prescribe medication to help manage these side effects. Often these side effects resolve over time.How does GLP-1 therapy work?
GLP-1 therapy can help with weight loss by making you feel full and reducing appetite. GLP-1 is a hormone that our bodies naturally produce. When we eat food, GLP-1 is released and tells our brains that we’re full. With GLP-1 therapy, doctors give you a medicine called a GLP-1 agonist. This medicine works like the natural GLP-1 in your body. It tells your brain that you’re full even if you haven’t eaten as much food. This can help you eat less and make healthier food choices. When you eat less and make healthier choices, you can lose weight over time.
How is GLP-1 therapy administered?
There are two ways GLP-1 medications are administered: orally and via injection. The injectable method is currently more common and is administered with a small insulin needle. You can inject this below the level of the skin in your abdomen, the outside of your thigh, or the outside of your upper arm. These are given once a week, with Victoza and Saxenda being injected daily. Check out this helpful guide on giving a subcutaneous injection from the University of Michigan. Oral medications are taken daily.
Injecting using a pre-filled pen (typically a branded GLP-1):
Injecting using a vial/needle/syringe (typically a compounded GLP-1):
How to inject compounded tirzepatide
Can GLP-1 therapy be combined with other chronic medications?
Yes, GLP-1 therapy can be combined with many other chronic medications such as those used for diabetes, blood pressure and high cholesterol. That said, there are certain medications and conditions which are not a good fit for GLP-1 therapy. It is important to notify both your PCP and your weight management clinician of any medications added or removed so they can continue to follow your progress and make other medication adjustments as needed.
What lifestyle changes should I make while on GLP-1 therapy?
When you’re on GLP-1 therapy, there are some simple lifestyle changes that can help you stay healthy and get the best results from the medicine. These include eating healthy foods, drinking plenty of water, listening to your healthcare provider, and sleeping well. Remember, GLP-1 therapy can be helpful, but it’s just one part of taking care of yourself. Making healthy choices with food, exercise and sleep will make you feel strong and happy. And don’t forget to have fun and enjoy life with your friends and family!
Are there any interactions with other medications or medical conditions?
Yes, there may be interactions with your current medications. This is why it is important to list ALL of your medications AND supplements for your weight loss provider to review. Additionally, it is important to notify your in-person healthcare providers of any GLP-1 added so they do not start you on a medication that is contraindicated while on GLP-1 therapy.
