When it comes to fat intake, focus on healthy sources and mindful portion sizes. Carbs often get a bad reputation, but your body needs them for energy! Skipping variety could leave you missing out on key nutrients your body needs. Instead, think of it as enjoying a smaller portion of the MyPlate layout, but with the same variety to keep your body happy and nourished. Even with a smaller appetite, your body still needs energy to function. It's important to work closely with your HydraMed professional to determine the dose that best suits your specific needs, ensuring sustainable results and minimal side effects. Not everyone will need to increase to higher doses; it depends on factors such as individual weight loss results and personal tolerability. By enhancing insulin release and inhibiting glucagon release, Semaglutide helps control blood sugar levels and reduces appetite, leading to weight loss. So excited to start my weight loss journey! This is weight loss help made easy. Experience a tailored weight loss journey designed just for you. Prescription GLP-1 medications replicate natural hormones that help control appetite and digestion. Visceral fat leeches fatty acids called adipokines or chemokines, which cause systemic inflammation in the body. He says GLP-1 drugs are remarkably effective in countering this pattern. They can activate the same reward centers that addictive drugs do. Want the latest stories on the science of healthy living? As a pharmacist specializing in endocrinology and diabetes management, like most in the field, I have been familiar with this drug class for many years.Semaglutide demonstrated a significant decrease in BMI, with a mean reduction of −16.1% from baseline to week 68, compared to the placebo group.However, there was no between-treatment imbalance in suicidal ideation/behavior or depression observed by prospective questionnaire assessments .Stacey's journey in healthcare started over a decade ago as a volunteer firefighter and paramedic, leading to a multifaceted career in nursing.Macie JepsonYou’ve got me wondering already if I was thinking the wrong thing, because I wanted to ask you about what these GLP-1 drugs are exactly.Also, your doctor may consider other medications that may be somewhat stronger, like Tirzepatide.Overall, these findings demonstrate the efficacy of semaglutide in promoting weight loss and improving cardiometabolic risk factors, which may have implications for the management of obesity and related disorders.Both groups experienced comparable drops in mean body weight (−2.3 kg and −1.4 kg) from baseline to week 24. However, GLP-1 treatments also raise many questions given their newness. Obesity has become one of the biggest public health challenges of our time. “Meanwhile, even though Zepbound and Mounjaro have the same dosing regimen, their recommended maintenance doses differ, too. “In more severe cases, the doctor may suggest they reduce their dose temporarily before reattempting an increase.” Our weight loss solutions are built around your unique needs. I am happy with my current 24 pound weight loss. You finally helped me to lose my weight. Everything is going well and I am seeing results regarding my weight loss, sugar cravings and easy administration. Let’s start with the simple squares style of the weight loss trackers. My weight loss tracker really wasn’t all that pretty, but it worked. Several of our readers have asked specifically for printable weight loss trackers after I mentioned mine in a meal plan post about a month ago. We have been talking lately on MPM about some things you can include in your weight loss journal that will help motivate and inspire you in your weight loss journey. Also, your doctor may consider other medications that may be somewhat stronger, like Tirzepatide. Just because you are experiencing a plateau with your weight loss from Ozempic or Wegovy, it doesn’t mean you are stuck there. Weight loss plateaus may be seen more commonly after about 60 weeks on these medications. This effect can happen from any weight loss measure, not just Ozempic or Wegovy. However, as time goes on, you may notice a significant slowing of weight loss or even a stall entirely. Wegovy® is now available as a once-daily pill, offering a needle-free option for people who prefer oral medication. In some cases, providers may prescribe Ozempic® off-label for weight management when appropriate, but Wegovy® is the formulation designed and approved for weight loss. Your Shed provider will help determine which option may be appropriate based on your health history, preferences, and treatment goals. Both the Wegovy® pill and the Wegovy® pen contain the same active ingredient, semaglutide, and are FDA-approved for weight management. It belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. I was leery of weight loss ‘wonder drugs,’” she says. Like medications for any chronic condition, GLP-1s are essential tools, not cheat codes, Glickman says, adding that they work best in conjunction with other healthy habits. Losing weight on a GLP-1 medication can have emotional and physical effects. But the best way to lose weight and keep it off is to make lasting lifestyle changes. Our personalized approach and convenient online and in-person appointments tailors every MSK program to the needs of the individual, providing the right care to encourage movement, enhance MSK strength, and help patients taking GLP-1s build healthier habits for life. That’s why Vori’s care team approach surrounds individuals with 360-degree support, providing the necessary doctor-led medical care, physical therapy, nutrition guidance, and health coaching to optimize every patient’s outcomes. “As GLP-1s work their wonders, our dietitians and health coaches help patients rebuild better foundations,” says Rusti Quarles, lead health coach at Vori. Weights and resistance bands are fantastic to incorporate, as well as exercises that use your body weight like squats,” says Tessy Oommen, PT, DPT a physical therapist at Vori. The weight loss reported in the above studies all occurred in volunteers who were also asked to maintain healthy eating and exercise habits. Our goal is that this review can serve as a framework to aid providers in building their knowledge and selecting the most advantageous weight loss medication for each patient. In this review, we explore the current medical therapies for obesity, including all major categories, individual mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, adverse effects, risks, and absolute contraindications. Additionally, a minority of users will find it necessary to discontinue the drug because they cannot tolerate the side effects. Wegovy and Saxenda are also approved for the treatment of children aged 12 and older; the precise BMI cutoffs for children differ by age. Once per week, users attach a needle to their pen, prick themselves in the torso or another fleshy area, and press a button on the pen to administer their medication. The drugs also boast other long-term benefits, such as protection against cardiovascular disease. Are you a resident of Sandy Springs, Georgia, struggling to lose weight despite numerous diets and exercise routines? Our team designs flexible, practical strategies that support better energy, improved metabolism, and long-term health—based on your unique body and lifestyle. Our weight loss injections, available throughout Sandy Springs and its surrounding communities, provide a revolutionary and safe approach to managing your weight effectively. We combine prescription medications with personalized nutritional support, paired with ongoing monitoring to keep your progress consistent and safe. Eligibility and outcomes vary, and treatment is recommended only after evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. How quickly will I receive my medication? This is only a risk in patients also taking insulin or sulfonylureas.(14) Seen in up to 10% but typically resolves within days of treatment. Generally resolves over days to weeks with dose escalation. Real world evidence also demonstrates substantial weight reduction, though to a lesser degree than research studies. It’s really unclear where they’re getting it from, how they’re getting it and what dose they’re using. But because it’s a licensed to them. So, you know, you had compound pharmacies popping up essentially overnight who were prescribing, you know, the medication. Because GLP-1 medications work by lowering blood sugar, concerns have been expressed that patients run the risk of their sugar dropping too low.If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule on the next scheduled day.Furthermore, semaglutide showed a higher incidence of gastrointestinal side effects in the STEP-3 trial (82.8%) compared to placebo (63.2%) .Understand your GLP-1 weight-loss potential, and get tailored daily calorie and protein targets in one quick calculation.Continued weight loss generally requires mindful nutrition choices and regular movement, even when medications are being used as part of the plan.Only a qualified physician can determine if you qualify for treatment.In addition, fasting plasma glucose was significantly improved by −0.84 mmol/L compared to placebo .Until the full effective dose is reached, the impact on appetite and weight may be limited. Clinical trials have shown that, on average, patients using Semaglutide for weight management can lose between 5% to 15% of their initial body weight over a period of several months. Gain a comprehensive understanding of Semaglutide's effectiveness for weight loss, diabetes management, and cardiovascular health with our extensive resource on Semaglutide weight loss data and statistics. After week ten, the focus shifts to finding the optimal maintenance dose that continues to support your weight loss goals while considering your body's unique needs. Remember, you are not alone on this journey—there is a whole community of people walking this path alongside you.Most people have heard of Mounjaro, Zepbound, Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus by now.The results showed that liraglutide provided significantly better glycemic control than exenatide twice daily and was better tolerated .Together, you and your healthcare provider will determine a treatment plan that works best for you.Wholesale acquisition costs differ between brand nameGLP-1 drugs.While there are possible side effects, they tend to be mild-to-moderate, like nausea and diarrhea.Health care providers are permitted to prescribe drugs off-label, leading many to use GLP-1s like Ozempic for weight loss prior to Wegovy’s approval.And like I said, if you stop them, there is weight regain. There are several potential reasons underlying this heterogeneity, including population, drug-specific/molecular, and comorbidity effects. Weight loss induced by glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) and dual glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R)/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor agonists is coming closer to the magnitudes achieved with surgery. You’re officially a month into starting GLP-1 treatment — and wow, a lot can change in four weeks. These are totally normal GLP-1 initial side effects, especially in the first few days. We are cholesterol medications. So many people will maintain weight, but many people and probably most people will gain some back. Some people have talked about just maintaining a really low dose over time, you know, and staying on a low dose given the benefits. And some people have talked about how high train the dose down much lower, rather than stopping cold turkey. Other GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide), are approved for diabetes but used off-label to help patients lose weight. Another long-term study, STEP 5, compared once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg to placebo (along with behavioral treatment) for two years in individuals with obesity or overweight and at least one weight-related comorbidity but no diabetes . In a placebo-controlled study (Lira-1) examining the efficacy and safety of liraglutide in overweight adult patients with type 1 diabetes and poor glycemic control, there was no significant difference in HbA1c reduction between insulin plus placebo and insulin plus liraglutide treatments. • Reduces nausea, a frequent side effect of GLP-1 medications, improving tolerance and adherence to therapy.• Supports metabolism and energy production, potentially enhancing GLP-1’s effects on blood sugar control and weight loss.• Aids in neurotransmitter synthesis, which may help manage mood and stress during treatment.• May improve sleep quality and cognitive function, countering potential fatigue from GLP-1 side effects. Providers are able to prescribe semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide specifically for weight loss in patients without diabetes. Taking smaller-than-standard amounts of a wide range of drugs may help with depression, anxiety, autoimmune disorders, and more. Using semaglutide has shut down the "food noise" I’ve lived with most of my life. “Many people don’t want to be so dependent on pharmaceuticals, which microdosing supports,” says Jordan. “We may start you on a lower dose and as soon as we see that you’re dropping one to two pounds a week, we can keep you there,” says Jordan. Midi’s mission is to revolutionize healthcare for women at midlife, wherever they live and whatever their health story. Whether you need personalized dietary guidance or a prescription routine to tackle symptoms—including migraines, brain fog, hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain—we’ve got you covered. If you’re in perimenopause or menopause and want guidance from clinicians who specialize in women’s midlife health, book a virtual visit with Midi today. There is a potential for more serious side effects, but they are rare. While there are possible side effects, they tend to be mild-to-moderate, like nausea and diarrhea. Debunking Common Myths About Injecting Semaglutide During weeks two to four, you may increase the dose based on your response and side effects. Regular telehealth appointments are essential to monitor and optimize your treatment, ensuring that adjustments can be made to suit your unique needs. Jumping to a high dose too quickly can lead to severe side effects, which can be discouraging and counterproductive. “Those for whom excess weight has been a lifelong struggle may find that a significant part of their identity is tied up in ‘I am a person who needs to lose weight,’” Rickel says. Maybe this really was a health issue because my doctor gave me medicine, and it’s getting better,” says the IT systems engineer in Croton-on-Hudson, New York. Before taking the medications, he says, he may have still felt hungry after three meals and multiple snacks. This situation is referred to as the “weight loss plateau” that can happen with these medications. For example, semaglutide can help you lose 15% of your weight in 68 weeks, while an older drug, Contrave, has been shown to result in closer to a 5% weight loss. But many experts know that BMI is an imperfect measurement and these cut-offs leave out many people whose health can still benefit from weight loss. Your weight loss stalled? That’s why the UpToDate® clinical decision support suite recently enhanced its content related to GLP-1s, diabetes, and obesity to support clinical decision-making and patient counseling. Having a trusted, evidence-based resource to connect you to the latest best practices and recommendations and offer quick links to patient education articles is essential for professionals navigating the complicated landscape of GLP-1 medications. When working with GLP-1 medications, providers need to stay aware of issues related to shortages and potential therapeutic substitutions. If you have obesity or overweight, talk to your healthcare provider to see if a GLP-1 agonist is right for you. This is because these GLP-1 agonists have weight loss effects. Researchers are currently studying the safety and effectiveness of GLP-1 agonists for people with Type 1 diabetes (T1D). Providers often prescribe GLP-1 agonists with other medications to achieve the best blood glucose management. There are several other types of diabetes medications, like oral (taken by mouth) medications. Initial health screening & starting medication Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality. As your body evolves, our medical team adjusts your care to keep pace. Our treatment plans start with your data, history, and goals, and your medication is compounded to match. Nutritionist-in-training, GLP-1 guide, and your go-to for sustainable weight loss without the diet drama. Coverage for injectable weight loss medications varies by insurance provider and plan. Many patients begin noticing appetite suppression and weight loss within the first few weeks of treatment. At ReBalanced Wellness, we customize treatment plans based on your unique health profile, continuously monitor your progress, and adjust medications as needed to minimize risks. Unlike unsupervised methods, our medical team in Sandy Springs closely monitors your progress, adjusts medications as needed, and provides nutritional and lifestyle guidance to maximize results. Choosing physician-supervised injectable weight loss means you receive expert care tailored specifically to your body and health conditions. Then an endocrinologist asked if he'd like to try one of the new class of glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1, drugs that include Wegovy and Mounjaro. After spending two years stuck at a desk as chief science officer of the White House COVID-19 Response Team, Kessler had gained significant weight. MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content. More evidence based on real-life studies with long-term follow-up of therapeutic effectiveness, tolerability, and adverse effects given either by the mode of administration (injectable/oral) are still necessary. Patients were randomized to receive either exenatide 2.0 mg QWS-AI, sitagliptin 100 mg once daily, or an oral placebo. “I’ve seen people regain weight on these medications when they fall out of healthy habits. “People have to think about anti-obesity medications as part of a whole package that includes moving your body and feeding your body healthy food,” Luft says. Dr. Meghan points out that "there are certain medications, Paxil, Gabapentin, there's so many out there, but if you are on a medication that is kind of fighting with your GLP-1 receptor agonist, your weight loss trajectory might not be as significant as somebody else's." Now they became really something that everybody wants to know about and find out about. And then we saw that they, you know, initially early generation groups such as Liraglutide reduced weight by about 5 to 8%, which was kind of the best that lifestyle could do, by itself. They were identified as being able to modulate and change blood sugar control. If you transferred in, check in with our provider to tailor your medication to your needs. Your 3-month starter plan includes monthly dose increases designed to support steady results. Here’s a one year timeline of what to expect when you start a GLP-1 medication with OrderlyMeds. Not all patients qualify. In this article, we’ll discuss some common reasons why people don’t lose weight on GLP-1 medications and explain what steps to take if you find yourself in that situation. GLP-1 receptor agonists have emerged as promising medications for weight management, offering effective solutions for people struggling with obesity. So there is such a thing as metabolically healthy obesity, people with excess body weight that don’t manifest the diseases that relate to obesity. And anyone losing a lot of weight, well, that will happen too because people are getting more weight loss with these medications that I’ve ever seen before. Let me let me dispel some of the confusion because the medications were initially designed for diabetes and then only later were designed for weight loss. Is Insurance Coverage Available For GLP-1 Drugs? GLP-1 agonists, used to treat type 2 diabetes, have been shown to be effective in promoting weight loss in preclinical and clinical studies. The words “VK2735” or “Orforglipron” mean nothing to most people, though now almost everyone is familiar with GLP1s as a class of drugs (at the very least the effects).There are some obscure GLP1s under development that GLP-1 agonists, such as Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, are used for weight management and treating type 2 diabetes, but certain conditions may disqualify someone from receiving these treatments. The cookie cutter GLP-1 dosing protocols followed by all mainstream providers can drastically limit your results and lead to weight loss plateaus because the dosing is not tailored to the specific needs of your body. You know, sometimes these other medications require you to take other medications to manage those side effects.In the future, the procedure will not just be used by police checking for alcohol intoxication, but also for testing the condition of athletes and for people who want to lose that extra bit of weight.However, as time goes on, you may notice a significant slowing of weight loss or even a stall entirely.A study conducted on the Romanian population confirmed the previously mentioned figures regarding the increase in the frequency of weight and obesity.“We may start you on a lower dose and as soon as we see that you’re dropping one to two pounds a week, we can keep you there,” says Jordan.Compared to the data for previously approved obesity medications, the phase 3 randomized controlled trial data for this treatment showed nearly twice the weight loss.The drugs also boast other long-term benefits, such as protection against cardiovascular disease. Provider of GLP-1 medications Focus on sustaining whole-body health and consider next steps for your GLP-1 therapy. Refine your lifestyle strategies, and adjust your weight loss goals as needed. Leverage our mobile app to track progress as you adjust your medication and embrace a healthier lifestyle. Share medical history and weight goals with your provider, start GLP-1 therapy, and monitor how you feel and your progress. This is especially when it comes to caring for individuals who are experiencing both obesity and muscle and joint pain. The employers and payers who cover GLP-1s face mounting pressures to manage treatment risks while also meeting the demands of their employees and plan members. ”We cannot overlook how devastating hip fractures can be to patients and families—over one in five hip fracture patients dies within the first year after fracture (Downey, 2019).” Achieve optimal health with expert hormone therapy, aesthetics, and wellness services. Stay informed with up-to-date data that demonstrates how Semaglutide can lead to significant, long-term health improvements, and why it’s becoming a key choice in medical weight loss. According to studies, there is a more common time period for a weight loss plateau to occur during your treatment with these medications. The weight loss plateau that some people are experiencing with Ozempic or Wegovy isn’t necessarily tied to these medications – a weight loss plateau can happen with any weight loss strategy. Yes, GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for weight loss in addition to helping manage type 2 diabetes. The FDA does not currently have guidelines on microdosing GLP-1 medications and it’s clear that more study is needed to understand the risks, benefits, and efficacy of doses that are lower than those recommended by current prescription guidelines. And those are all the drivers of all the different consequences that we see diabetes, heart disease, heart failure, the fat that’s, the pear shaped.GLP-1 medications are injectables, but they are delivered through very specific devices and might not be what patients are used to, even if they’ve been taking insulin or other injections for some time.Dedicated professionals committed to your weight loss journey.That care can include GLP-1s, and in Dr. Jordan’s experience, “many women don’t need to go to the maximum dose when they’re using GLP-1s for weight loss.”SGLT-2 inhibitors aren't recommended for people who have had diabetic ketoacidosis.In the tirzepatide versus placebo groups, diarrhea (12–21% vs. 10%) and nausea (13–18% vs. 3%) were the most frequent treatment-emergent side events (SURPASS-5) .Dulaglutide and liraglutide also have been found to be very effective.These medications can impact all those domains.Ian Neeland, MDI think the other thing to know is that side effects are continuum. One was the shortage and two is people wanting to get medications for cheaper. Now the two medications, Semaglutide and Tirzepatide were actually the same medication, same doses and same pens and just branded differently because they’re for different indications. Similarly, Semaglutide is both Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss, and Tirzepatide is Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss. So Liraglutide is both Victoza for diabetes and Saxenda for weight loss. We see benefits from the body weight and all the different things that weight loss impacts, as well as heart failure and many other conditions. And so I think that these medications really are, you know, long term management medications I think they are safe. Now, we don’t have as much data with the newer generation ones where the weight loss is, you know, upwards of 25 plus percent. Ian Neeland, MDI do, I’m not concerned about long term negative effects like people developing cancer for example, horrible tumors or something like that. So it’s really trying to figure out the consequences of the obesity and how we can then improve it. Moreover, those treated with the exercise-only protocol maintained their weight loss more successfully (average 2.5 kg regained) than those with the GLP-1-only protocol (average 6.0 kg regained) (Jensen, 2024). Other forms of expedited weight loss, such as highly restrictive dieting, are known to reduce both fat and fat-free mass (muscle, bone, organs, and other non-fat tissues) (Cava, 2017). Despite the inconsistent findings, what we do know is that rapid weight loss does not exclusively apply to fat. Through the LifeMD Weight Management Program, you will work closely with a healthcare professional who will assess your health history, medications, lifestyle habits, and goals. Certain health conditions can make weight loss more difficult, even with medication support. Continued weight loss generally requires mindful nutrition choices and regular movement, even when medications are being used as part of the plan. At Apex MD, we are committed to helping you achieve lasting weight loss and metabolic well-being. Moreover, obesity is linked to an increased risk of hospitalization, the need for intubation and ventilation, and the risk of death in cases of COVID-19 and 2009 H1N1 . These conditions indicate the risk of developing terminal complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and cardiovascular disease . Obesity is a multifaceted and diverse condition that affects more than just an individual’s weight . But as the glitz fades, a darker tale unfolds – one of unexpected side effects, black market dealings, and a societal obsession with vanity. Each patient's journey is unique, and understanding these lesser-known aspects of GLP-1 treatment can help you set realistic expectations and achieve better results. As Dr. Meghan explains, "If they're taking an injectable GLP-1 Wegovy, they may want to try something like Zepbound or Saxenda, or they may want to try an oral medication." In the majority of people in clinical trials, these side effects have been mild or moderate. About 15 percent of Wegovy users and 9 percent of Zepbound users lost less than 5 percent of their body weight. The results of major clinical trials suggest how much weight the average user may expect to lose. Only your healthcare team can decide which of these drugs, if any, will work best for you. Doctors start their patients on lower “starter” doses and work their way up — it can take months to work up to a full-strength dosage. Rebel Wilson’s Day of Eating to Stay Lean Maybe you want to boost your health or get in shape for a vacation. What will give you the burning desire to stick to your weight-loss plan? Lowering stress can help you make long-term healthy lifestyle changes. Talk with your healthcare professional if you need help taking charge of stress. These comorbidities include type 2 diabetes, hypertension, ventilatory dysfunction, arthrosis, venous and lymphatic circulation diseases, depression, and others, which have a negative impact on health and increase morbidity and mortality. 💚 More research on GLP1’s benefits for stopping substance & alcohol Abuse📑 Ketones + GLP1s prevent muscle loss (in mice)🚨 Semaglutide Withdrawal and it’s effects on Type The reddit users in the linked thread above shared many interesting and important things to remember about a slow down in weight loss, with many personal accounts that were worth taking note of. One thing people have found and reported on repeatedly is the fact that they sometimes "stall out" while losing weight with GLP1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound and others. GLP1 Receptor Agonists are incredibly effective for most people, but they are not miracle drugs and they do not work for everyone. Menopause is linked to weight gain–especially belly weight gain that can have negative health consequences. But these drugs can come with some side effects, which include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, and indigestion. For someone who weighs 200 pounds, that’s a weight loss of 30 pounds. The efficacy of these medications is much greater than anything that has been available up to this point. GLP-1s have completely upended the world of weight loss. Wholesale acquisition costs differ between brand nameGLP-1 drugs. These may be preferentially prescribed for such patients. After undisclosed rebates and discounts negotiated by insurers and pharmacy benefit managers, the net cost is estimated to be 50-80% lower, according to analysis covered in The New York Times.(16) Discontinue GLP-1 drugs if issues are severe or persistent. So be sure that you're ready to eat healthy foods and become more active. Here are six tips to help you start your weight-loss journey. These healthy changes include eating a balanced diet and moving more each day. But we also know that navigating the risks of these drugs, and making and sustaining these lifestyle changes, can be overwhelming. Celebrated for its powerful results, GLP 1’s are a key part of our weight loss programs at ReBalanced Wellness, now available for residents of Sandy Springs. This holistic program integrates cutting-edge science with personalized care, helping you boost energy, increase confidence, and maintain sustainable weight loss. There’s no “best” way to manage Type 2 diabetes or obesity. You should have regular appointments with your healthcare provider when taking a GLP-1 agonist to assess how well it’s working. Weight loss surgery, or bariatric surgery, is also an option for some people with a need to lose weight. Many doctors endorse and prescribe compounded GLP-1 weight loss drugs, but others warn explicitly against their use. Public insurance coverage for GLP-1 drugs obesity treatments is spotty in the United States. Significant weight loss isn’t always a benefit for older adults, especially if it means the loss of bone and muscle mass, which are critical for good physical health. The main outcomes and side effects observed in clinical trials of GLP1-RA against obesity are summarized in Table 5. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that exenatide QWS-AI reduced HbA1c more than sitagliptin or placebo and was well-tolerated 142,143,144. Exenatide QWS-AI and sitagliptin reduced fasting plasma glucose from baseline to 28 weeks (−21.3 and −11.3 mg/dL) compared to placebo (+9.6 mg/dL), without any significant differences between the two active treatments. This was an open-label, multicenter study involving 365 patients with T2DM who had suboptimal glycemic control on metformin monotherapy. Patients who continued on exenatide QWS-AI therapy for 52 weeks maintained their A1C levels and weight loss without any additional safety or tolerability issues . The most common adverse events with tirzepatide were mild or moderate nasopharyngitis (75 17%), nausea (74 17%), constipation (54 12%), diarrhea (51 12%), and decreased appetite (44 10%) . This was more common in the tirzepatide 15 mg group (125 84% of 148) than in the 5 mg (109 74% of 148) and 10 mg (109 74% of 148) groups 147). A higher incidence of nausea (12–24%), diarrhea (15–17%), decreased appetite (6 12%), and vomiting (6–10%) was reported in participants treated with tirzepatide than in those treated with insulin degludec (2%, 4%, 1%, 1%, respectively). Proud Supporters of these Fine Organizations If you are using Ozempic or Wegovy for weight loss, you might experience pretty steady weight loss in the beginning. Your provider will be able to monitor your weight loss and determine if you are a candidate for GLP-1s, and whether microdosing could be effective for you. Microdosing GLP-1s, which simply means taking anything below the recommended effective dose, can work for many people. However, dietary changes alone cannot raise GLP-1 levels nearly as much as GLP-1 agonist medications. Find answers to frequently asked questions about our weight loss program and community. Apex MD’s platform offers seamless visit scheduling, weight tracking, and access to weekly coaching sessions to support your health journey. Apex MD’s proprietary dosing protocols ensure your body gets exactly what it needs to get the healthiest best result in the shortest amount of time. You can list a healthy action that you'll use to lose weight. Even this amount of weight loss can lower your risk of some long-term health conditions. Evidence-based nutrition guidance is also critical to help GLP-1 patients prioritize diets that lower inflammation, promote muscle growth, and help individuals maintain a healthy weight. In the context of GLP-1s, we can safely assume that the average 15 percent weight loss induced by the drug is likely to cause some muscle loss, potentially leading to poorer treatment outcomes—especially for older adults (Wilding, 2021). Clinical data were obtained from the LEAD-1 study , which compared the effects of glimepiride with two doses of the GLP-1 analog liraglutide (1.2 mg and 1.8 mg) or rosiglitazone (4 mg) in patients with T2DM. Another study evaluated the efficacy, safety, and use of all doses of liraglutide for weight management in obese individuals without diabetes. The initial study in the series demonstrated that once-daily liraglutide when added to sulfonylurea therapy for 26 weeks, resulted in greater improvements in glycemic control and weight loss compared to the addition of rosiglitazone or placebo . The study’s results provide valuable insights into potential treatments for obesity in teenagers, although further research is necessary to confirm these findings and investigate any potential long-term effects. Moreover, 73% (95 out of 131 participants) in the semaglutide group had lost at least 5% of their body weight by week 68, whereas only 18% (11 out of 62 participants) in the placebo group had achieved this result. Overall, these findings demonstrate the efficacy of semaglutide in promoting weight loss and improving cardiometabolic risk factors, which may have implications for the management of obesity and related disorders. In summary, the findings suggest that semaglutide/liraglutide provides kidney protective effects, particularly in patients with pre-existing chronic kidney disease. A pooled analysis of two clinical trials, SUSTAIN6 and LEADER, was conducted to assess the impact of semaglutide administered once a week and liraglutide administered once daily on renal outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Taken orally, this medication works by mimicking the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. What to Know Before Starting GLP-1 Medications for Weight LossGLP-1 medication are changing how obesity is treated—but starting without clear,… OrderlyMeds is a 100% online platform that connects patients to licensed healthcare professionals in all 50 states. “Ozempic is approved to treat type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management. This includes trusted weight loss injections. Explore helpful ways to lose weight and achieve the best results in 2024. Your glp1 weight solutions team is there to help you. Clinicians started to observe the weight management benefits of GLP-1s in addressing metabolic syndrome in patients with diabetes and in treating patients with cardiovascular disease and conditions that can be exacerbated by overweight and obesity.Animal studies show that these medications cause developmental abnormalities in the fetus.But the amount of weight loss depends on the type of medicine and the dose.We always want patients to know that long term, it’s hard to say where they will fall on that spectrum.”The 24-week study included 680 patients, and the morning dose of Lixisenatide significantly reduced blood glucose 2 h postprandial compared to placebo (mean change −5.9 vs. −1.4 mmol/L).You should have regular appointments with your healthcare provider when taking a GLP-1 agonist to assess how well it’s working.Other GLP-1 agonists appear to be somewhat less effective for weight loss. The evidence around GLP-1s and sarcopenia is often conflicting, with some studies finding no change to skeletal muscle mass, while others indicate accelerated muscle degradation due to rapid weight loss (Uchiyama, 2023; Hong, 2019). Sustainable, significant weight loss typically occurs over several months with adherence to the program and lifestyle guidance. Adults in Sandy Springs who struggle with obesity, slow metabolism, insulin resistance, or have difficulty losing weight through diet and exercise alone may benefit from these programs. This comprehensive approach minimizes risks and supports sustainable weight loss, making your journey safer and more successful. Better health starts here It occurred in China, Hong Kong, the Republic of Korea, and Brazil, with participants receiving semaglutide or a placebo for 44 weeks. In the STEP-6 trial, the effects of semaglutide were evaluated in obese East Asian adults with and without T2DM. The Effect and Action in Diabetes (LEAD) studies also showed that the glycemic efficacy and safety of liraglutide (1.2 mg or 1.8 mg) were similar in patients with mild renal impairment (eGFR 60 to ≤89 mL /min/1.73 m2) to those with normal renal function . However, an exploratory post hoc analysis of pooled neuropsychiatric safety data from all randomized, double-blind phase 2 and 3a trials with liraglutide 3.0 mg showed a small numerical imbalance in suicidal ideation with liraglutide by event reporting adverse effects. Now, there is a way to try to mitigate that and to try to, you know, keep maintenance being off the medications. The medications are only going to work if you’re taking them. When I hear people talk about, you know, I can’t get off of them, it’s interesting. I mean, there is such a thing as an unhealthy weight, as too low. And are they, I mean, are people getting addicted to losing weight and that’s seen that scale go down? Dr. David A. Kessler has always been in the business of keeping people healthy – but by his own admission, he hasn't always applied that to himself. Management of comorbidities increasingly common in T2DM patients, such as obesity and liver disease, needs to be better addressed. Moreover, particular attention should be paid to the way in which prescribing doctors apply the recommendations of international guidelines in order to avoid as much as possible clinical inertia, to improve cardio–reno metabolic efficiency and safety in obese patients with or without diabetes. GLP-1R agonists are an attractive target for generating more effective therapies for T2DM, given their reported beneficial effects on several organs in the body involved in the pathology of the disease. A better understanding of metabolic homeostasis in both healthy individuals and altered metabolic phenotype in T2DM will likely lead to the development of better treatments for T2DM. This is only the beginning of learning how to most effectively harness the promise of GLP-1 drugs. Still, amid complexity, the immense benefits to millions living with obesity are clear. Increased productivity from improved health may support economic growth. Larger, rigorous human trials are needed to determine if GLP-1 therapies could become viable off-label treatments for nicotine, alcohol, opioid or other addictions. Early research hints at intriguing potential for GLP-1 drugs to aid recovery from addictions beyond food cravings. Dr. Amanda Simone-Belin is a board-certified internal medicine physician specializing in medical weight loss and long-term weight management. Just two days later, I started the medication to address both my weight and blood sugar. Losing weight has improved my health so much that I no longer need medication. Some people may need more exercise than this to lose weight and keep it off. Ongoing clinical research continues to evaluate its effectiveness as part of a medically supervised treatment plan. Benefit from 30 days of virtual follow-ups to keep you motivated and accountable on your weight loss journey. We stay at the forefront of medical advancements, integrating the latest evidence-based treatments with personalized care plans. Our caring and dedicated team works closely with you to create sustainable lifestyle changes that promote long-term health, vitality, and happiness. This advanced therapy works by suppressing appetite, reducing cravings, and promoting significant, sustainable weight loss. And then, you know, people just don’t feel well. I want to go back to this compound, and I’m think I’m calling it like designer drugs that are out there. Making sure you’re getting protein in your body and making sure that you’re building that strength to get through it. Therefore, tirzepatide should be avoided in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).GLP-1 RAs are currently used in treating patients with T2D and consistently result in weight loss, in addition to lowering blood glucose levels.A total of 636 participants were randomly assigned to receive at least one dose of tirzepatide (5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg) or dulaglutide (0.75 mg), with 615 participants (97%) completing the study, and 21 (3%) discontinuing the study .And what they’re trying to do is frame obesity as a chronic disease in the context of clinical, you know, consequences.Blood labs are included in your program andas your body’s needs change so does your personalized mixGLP-1 medications are typically started at a lower dose to minimize side effects and then gradually increased.Patients on insulin therapy may be initiated on tirzepatide therapy and cautiously tapered to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia .Who shouldn’t take them, regardless of their weight or related health problems?Moreover, 73% (95 out of 131 participants) in the semaglutide group had lost at least 5% of their body weight by week 68, whereas only 18% (11 out of 62 participants) in the placebo group had achieved this result. But it's not clear exactly how GLP-1 agonists lead to weight loss. Lower blood sugar helps control type 2 diabetes. When blood sugar starts to rise after a person eats, these medicines cause the body to make more insulin. Other GLP-1 agonists appear to be somewhat less effective for weight loss. Examples of GLP-1 meds that are FDA-approved for weight loss include Zepbound (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide). GLP-1 medications have gained attention for their effectiveness in supporting weight loss. Join LifeMD today and experience amazing healthcare, discounted labs and prescription medications plus around-the-clock access to medical guidance. GLP-1 medications for weight loss aren’t magic, but they are powerful tools when used consistently and with care. Whether your goal is weight loss, better blood sugar control, or both, this first month can feel like a rollercoaster of “what is happening to my body right now?? We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed research, certified health and weight loss experts, people with lived experience, and information from top institutions. Personal testimonials about GLP-1 agonists show the impact these medications can have on people’s health, well-being, and quality of life. Since changes in our body image often lag behind changes in actual body size, people often have difficulty seeing their weight loss when they look at themselves, Rickel says. The extra insulin helps lower blood sugar. GLP-1 agonists mimic the way a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 works in the body. Dulaglutide and liraglutide also have been found to be very effective. Another form of semaglutide is available in a pill that's taken by mouth once a day. "Sustainable weight loss takes time. Be patient with yourself and stay consistent," she writes. Are you thinking about taking Ozempic or another weight loss drug to help you drop unwanted pounds? We strive to make weight loss as simple and as easy as possible. Longevity medications designed to extend and enhance Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and are made by a licensed pharmacy based on a provider’s prescription. It may go without saying, but the old-fashioned way — diet and exercise — remains a preferred weight loss method. These off-brand semaglutide and tirzepatide equivalents are mixed in a private compounding pharmacy and are not subjected to rigorous FDA testing. These cosmetic side effects aren’t unhealthy, and aren’t directly caused by GLP-1s. A small number of users may experience gastrointestinal effects so severe that they need to stop taking the medication.