Which GLP-1 Is Best for Weight Loss?

The 12 GLP-1RA drugs were categorized based on receptor specificity into mono-agonists, dual-agonists, and triple-agonists. Impact of age on the weight reduction effects of Liraglutide (A) and Semaglutide (B) Taking injectable Semaglutide (1.0 mg) as an example, the weight reduction effects at 52 weeks for subjects aged 45, 55, and 60 were 9.88 kg, 7.27 kg, and 6.24 kg, respectively, with the latter being 3.64 kg lower than the former (Fig. 6). For example, with injectable Semaglutide, at doses of 0.05 mg, 1.0 mg, and 2.4 mg, the weight reduction effects at 52 weeks were1.21 kg, 7.6 kg, and 9.05 kg, respectively (Fig. 4). Like any prescription medication, GLP-1 weight loss pills come with side effects and important safety considerations. Injectable medications generally produce stronger, more consistent weight loss outcomes due to better absorption. Oral tirzepatide is already showing promise in trials, with some patients achieving 10–15% weight loss in under a year. Data from SURPASS and SURMOUNT clinical trials show strong early results, with significant reductions in body weight comparable to injectables.

• Although it is important to note the side effect of hypoglycemia impacts patients with diabetes on other antihypoglycemic agents, the overall risk for hypoglycemia in those without diabetes and not on antihypoglycemic medications is low.
• Not only does G-Plans offer personalized AI-generated meal plans based on your health and metabolic profile — you can also order your meals directly through the company.
• Both Novo Nordisk (maker of Rybelsus) and Eli Lilly (maker of tirzepatide) offer savings cards and patient assistance programs.
• Research explores combinations for enhanced effects.
• In simple terms, semaglutide targets one hormone that makes you feel full and controls blood sugar, while tirzepatide targets two hormones that are shown to have greater improvements in metabolic health, including better insulin sensitivity and fat burning.
• Let’s break down the top GLP-1 options and how each one fits different weight loss goals.

Your current medications

• For instance, Orforglipron demonstrated the fastest onset (6.4 weeks); conversely, Tirzepatide had the slowest onset (19.5 weeks), taking 46 weeks to reach its efficacy plateau.
• The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 .
• Nurx specializes in care for women, and weight-management programs are just one of the company’s many offerings.
• Popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy work by artificially increasing levels of a natural anti-obesity/anti-diabetes hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1).
• For many patients, the difference between short-term results and long-term success comes down to how closely the program is monitored.
• GLP-1 medications have specific approved uses.
• Based on the final model, simulations of the typical time-course of weight reduction by different drugs at various levels of covariates were conducted.
• “The combination of the medication and preexisting gastroparesis symptoms could exacerbate nausea and vomiting.”
• It’s approved to lower blood glucose levels in people ages 10 and older with Type 2 diabetes.

Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide is one of the most common questions—and tirzepatide (Zepbound) consistently proves to deliver the best GLP-1 weight loss results. If you’re starting with compounded Tirzepatide for weight loss, a microdosing tirzepatide chart can make a huge difference. Choosing Your Path Ultimately, the best GLP-1 for weight loss depends on your body, preferences, and response to treatment. GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed how medical professionals approach weight loss. Therefore, the final approved dosages or titration schedules for these medications may be subject to changes, which requires a cautious interpretation of the current findings. Yes, Zepbound is approved for weight loss. It’s also approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in people with a larger body size. After 40 weeks, people receiving Mounjaro saw a better reduction in hemoglobin A1C levels (average blood glucose over 3 months) compared to Ozempic. Byetta can cause weight loss as a side effect. Byetta was the first FDA-approved GLP-1 drug. In a separate trial, adolescents lost a little over 2.5% of their starting body weight on average. Adults considered overweight with at least one weight-related health condition can also qualify. It’s also dosed weekly and continues to gain traction in both clinical and real-world settings. This GLP-1/GIP combo medication works on two hormonal pathways to enhance appetite suppression and metabolic function. We’ve also seen data that semaglutide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits, which can further protect the kidneys from damage.” These newer treatments have been making headlines, and for good reason — multiple studies demonstrate weight loss of between 15% and 25% after a year. In addition, Pessah-Pollack advises that patients stop using these medications for at least two months before trying to become pregnant. However, “Despite what people see in the media, GLP-1 drugs are not lifelong prescriptions,” says Decotiis. She also advises that patients be given recommendations about stress management, healthy sleep, fluid intake, and intake of macro- and micronutrients. The medication should typically be just one aspect of an individual’s weight management plan. It’s important to avoid companies that offer medications without a prescription,” explains Amin. Studies also suggest that GLP-1 has a positive impact in patients with fatty liver disease, and we anticipate using this medication for management of fatty liver disease in the near future.” “This decrease in blood sugar levels plays an important role in managing type 2 diabetes and leading to improved glucose control.

• GLP-1 drugs may support brain health…
• Together, we’ll create a weight loss plan that supports your long-term health.
• Their full potential is realized when combined with functional medicine strategies, including nutrient-dense meals, digestive support, stress reduction, and targeted supplementation.
• Subsequently, the popularity of the pharmaceutical weight-loss drug market has grown over the past few years to meet growing demand.
• Some concerns include that there has been limited research finalized on the effective, safe use of these medications in children .
• However, higher doses of oral semaglutide may be approved for weight loss soon.

The most frequently reported side effects are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and appetite changes. However, pills are far more convenient for many people, particularly those who are uncomfortable with weekly injections. Still, results vary depending on the specific drug and whether it’s taken orally or by injection.

News: The Top 10 Soup Ingredients To Speed Weight Loss, According To Nutritionists

In current clinical trials, the maximum administered doses of these drugs are 0.6 mg, 200 mg, 10 mg, 12 mg, 45 mg, and 2.4 mg, corresponding to 70.8 %, 66.4 %, 65.8 %, 60.7 %, 75.2 %, and 77.3 % of their respective Emax values. Overall, a 52-week treatment duration generally allows all the GLP-1RA drugs currently studied to reach their efficacy plateaus. This indicates that when evaluating the efficacy of different GLP-1RA drugs, varying treatment durations should be employed to fully reflect the therapeutic potential of each drug. This study found significant variations in the reported onset time of GLP-1RA drugs. For example, among GLP-1 mono-agonists, Liraglutide had a relatively lower weight reduction effect (4.03 kg), whereas Orforglipron had the highest effect (8.66 kg).

• … Over time, somebody who responded to Wegovy really well at the beginning, five, 10, 20 years from now, probably will need some other more powerful or different acting medication.”
• This systematic review of public databases included placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials of GLP-1RAs.
• Still, results vary depending on the specific drug and whether it’s taken orally or by injection.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also speak with their doctor before taking GLP-1 agonists, as the safety during pregnancy and lactation is not well established.”
• Mounjaro is a once-weekly injection that’s closely related to GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs.
• Mounjaro is approved to treat Type 2 diabetes in adults.
• In addition, glucagon release is also decreased by GLP-1, a hormone that increases blood sugar.
• The test measures blood sugar levels, and thyroid and kidney function, among other components.

FDA-approved ones like semaglutide have strong profiles. Semaglutide and tirzepatide lead in efficacy, while others like AOD-9604 target specific areas. Regular check-ins track weight and health markers. Not FDA-approved but researched for obesity.

• Wegovy is another once-weekly semaglutide injection.
• Pessah-Pollack recommends finding a prescription provider who is board certified and has expertise in weight management, endocrinology, and metabolism, since GLP-1s are prescribed for both weight management and type 2 diabetes.
• In recent trials, patients on Tirzepatide saw up to 20% weight loss, making it one of the most promising tools in the space.
• Known as a triple-agonist, this medication from Eli Lilly is not yet approved by the FDA but has produced powerful results in clinical trials.
• While many studies have demonstrated efficacy in patients with diabetes and obesity, a worrying trend is interest in Ozempic for cosmetic weight loss popularized by social media and celebrity influences .
• While weight reduction results may not be as dramatic as injectable Ozempic (semaglutide), many patients find it a more sustainable choice.
• The maximum weight reduction effect ranged from 4.25 kg (Liraglutide) to 22.6 kg (Retatrutide).
• Clinical trials report up to 21% weight reduction in 36 weeks.

This gradual approach to increasing your dose helps minimize side effects like nausea, while still helping you control appetite and support fat loss. We’ll help you make informed, confident decisions tailored to your health needs. While Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are leading choices, Liraglutide remains a strong alternative for select patients. You must still adopt a healthier lifestyle for long-term weight management success, like eating balanced meals, staying active, and managing stress. For example, combining insulin or other medicines for diabetes with GLP-1s could cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Certain drugs may not mix well with GLP-1s. Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, particularly as part of a medical weight loss program, are typically the first and best way to lose weight. It’s a hormone your body naturally makes to help control blood sugar, insulin, and digestion.

• First, individual estimates of model parameters for each drug group and their standard errors were obtained using data output by the NONMEM software.
• “Effectiveness of glucose-lowering medications on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes at moderate cardiovascular risk” was published in Nature Cardiovascular Research in April 2024.
• GLP-1 medications help restore this impaired response, leading to better blood sugar control, appetite reduction, and weight loss.
• The green diamond points represent the efficacy values that reach the efficacy plateau (80 % of maximum effect).
• If you’re starting with compounded Tirzepatide for weight loss, a microdosing tirzepatide chart can make a huge difference.
• With medical guidance, FDA-approved options, and real support, you can lose weight and keep it off without guilt, guessing, or gimmicks.
• While compounded GLP-1s are legal, they are not FDA approved, and there is concern regarding their safety, effectiveness, and quality.
• Early data suggest tirzepatide may provide stronger weight loss once it becomes available.
• Unlike other GLP-1 agonists, danuglipron is a small molecule making it a potential orally administered alternative .

Studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists may improve cardiovascular outcomes, reduce inflammation and enhance metabolic health. Experts previously told Flow Space that it’s important to practice lifestyle habits like consistent exercise and a nutritionally dense diet to maintain weight loss. While the specific length of treatment depends on your plan with your doctor, it appears that GLP-1s should be used longterm to maintain weight loss. Tirezepatide, a type of GLP-1 that includes Mounjaro and Zepbound, can particularly affect the absorption of oral medications, so she says the prescribing information for these medications includes a recommendation to use a non-oral contraceptive. If these results hold true once the medication reaches the market, it could set a new benchmark for oral weight loss treatments. Clinical trials show that patients taking Rybelsus can lose an average of 5–8% of their body weight over 26–52 weeks. While several GLP-1 weight loss pills are in development, only one is FDA-approved today.

Other Emerging Oral GLP-1 Therapies

At CFW, we view GLP-1 medications as one tool among many. While the benefits are compelling, GLP-1 medications are not without risks. GLP-1 medications improve insulin sensitivity and reduce post-meal glucose spikes. Blood Sugar Control and Diabetes Support GLP-1 medications improve insulin sensitivity and reduce post-meal glucose spikes. GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic this natural hormone, slowing digestion, increasing satiety, and stimulating insulin only when blood sugar is elevated. “We know these drugs represent a massive breakthrough in our long fight against obesity-related clinical conditions, but their high cost has been the subject of substantial debate,” said David Kim, PhD, a UChicago health economist. Different drugs performed better in different areas, but all 15 GLP-1RAs they analyzed were very successful in lowering blood glucose and achieving weight loss. While experts caution against overusing GLP-1RAs or viewing them as a universal cure-all for obesity, physicians and researchers agree that the drugs are highly effective for weight management and Type 2 diabetes treatment.

• To create our list of the best sites to buy GLP-1 weight loss medications online, we reviewed 22 companies selling GLP-1 medications.
• “Weight loss becomes temporary when patients stop taking their medication, because they lack essential weight management elements,” she says.
• Patients also get access to behavior-change lessons and a habit tracker to record medication, weight, sleep, movement, and nutritional info.
• Transformations can happen quickly on GLP-1 medications, and if you don’t take photos and document your progress, you might forget how far you’ve come when you reach your goal.
• These medications can lead to dehydration and muscle loss, so WeightWatchers also provides daily nutrition targets that prioritize protein, water, and fruits and veggies, as well as a daily activity goal to support weight loss.
• Like the GLP-1 enzyme, GLP-1 receptor agonists can suppress appetite, delay gastric emptying, reduce plasma glucose levels, and enhance insulin secretion, thereby controlling glucose levels in the body .

It’s part of a brand new class called GLP-1/GIP agonists. It’s used to treat Type 2 diabetes in adults. Like Wegovy, it’s approved for use in adults and adolescents age 12 and older who are considered obese. During clinical trials, this was around 5 pounds on average. One study found that adults taking the highest Trulicity dose (4.5 mg) were able to lose up to 10 pounds over nine months.

The Future of Peptides in Weight Management

By improving lipid metabolism, they help the body use fat as fuel. When it comes to weight management, certain peptides target fat cells directly. In the body, they help with cell signaling, hormone regulation, and tissue repair. One study in the journal Addiction found that people addicted to alcohol who also had a prescription for Ozempic or similar drugs had a 50% lower rate of binging alcohol, compared to those who were not on the medications. They estimated that people who stopped the drugs would return to their previous weight within about two years; those who took tirzepatide and semaglutide were projected to regain about 1.8 pound per month and to return to their baseline weight within about 1.5 years. Researchers from Oxford University analyzed 37 studies that examined what happened when people stopped taking weight loss drugs. Compared to the risks of untreated obesity, the potential side effects of GLP-1 weight loss medications are usually minimal and manageable. The safety of weight reduction medications has long been a concern, with numerous drugs being withdrawn from the market owing to safety issues 28,29. Researchers concluded that those taking tirzepatide were “significantly more likely to achieve weight loss,” but added that more studies are needed to better understand the full range of benefits and effects both drugs have on patients. While many studies have demonstrated efficacy in patients with diabetes and obesity, a worrying trend is interest in Ozempic for cosmetic weight loss popularized by social media and celebrity influences . Patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 30, or a BMI of 27 with one weight-related medical condition (like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes), are candidates for weight loss medications like GLP-1s. Neither medication manages blood sugar or weight to the same degree as newer versions, but these older drugs are still good options for people with mild diabetes who are not overweight. Phase two clinical studies have reported the efficacy of the medication in reducing HbA1c levels and assisting weight loss, suggesting its usefulness as an antidiabetic medication . In a phase 2 trial funded by the pharmaceutical company, people lost up to 20% of their body weight after taking the medication for almost a year. An earlier trial funded by the company showed people with Type 2 diabetes lost up to 14% of their body weight with the injection at 36 weeks, while those who took the daily pill lost 10%. In a late-stage trial funded by the pharmaceutical company, people lost 20% of their body weight on average after taking the drug for a year and four months. Some people might tolerate amylin analogs better than GLP-1 drugs, or the new option could help people overcome a weight-loss plateau, Jay notes. What started with Ozempic has become a new era in weight-loss success with blockbuster GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound helping fight obesity.

Will I Get Loose Skin or Lose Too Much Weight?

Most recently, Wegovy® was approved for weight loss in adults in June 2021 and adolescents ≥12 years old in December 2022 . In 2019, the oral form of semaglutide, under the brand name Rybelsus®, was approved for individuals with type 2 diabetes to manage glucose control . In fact, the study also found that patients who discontinued the medication had a 30–33% increased risk of cardiac disorders compared to patients who continued to take the medication 14, 15. This is particularly true for drugs with few reported efficacy data points, making it challenging to accurately estimate their ET50 values. First, some GLP-1RA drugs are still under development, and the related clinical trial data are limited, which may affect the robustness of the pharmacodynamic models. Additionally, large-scale real-world studies indicate that GLP-1 class drugs may cause severe adverse reactions, such as acute pancreatitis, cholelithiasis, and acute kidney injury , , , . These data can assist clinicians in selecting appropriate medications based on specific adverse reaction profiles of patients. Among the GLP-1 drugs currently available, tirzepatide and semaglutide stand out as the most effective for weight management. GLP-1 drugs mimic a gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) that regulates blood sugar and promotes weight loss. There are many diagnostic tools and management options that may be used in conjunction with GLP-1 agonists, and the efficacy of different combinations of drugs and lifestyle changes should also be further explored.

• “The current fervor for GLP-1RAs in the capital markets as well as in the general public, especially in terms of weight reduction, is probably going to result in overuse,” said Chun-Su Yuan, MD, PhD, the Cyrus Tang Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care at the University of Chicago.
• Pricing is comparable, often covered for weight-related conditions.
• You can also track your progress in the app, which allows you to visualize your work toward reaching your goal weight.
• WeightWatchers has been around for more than 60 years, and its comprehensive weight loss program has evolved with the times.
• Consult a healthcare professional before starting.
• Trulicity is approved to improve blood sugar levels in adults and children aged 10 and older with Type 2 diabetes.
• The potential disease impact of obesity has been widely debated and explored in recent research.

Tirzepatide, already available as the injectable Zepbound for weight loss, is also being developed in oral form. Rybelsus is currently the only FDA-approved oral GLP-1 medication. This hormone is released after meals and signals the body to regulate appetite, slow digestion, and improve blood sugar balance. Making the Choice Which GLP-1 works best for weight loss? On average, users report 5–10% total weight loss.

4. The impact of age on weight reduction efficacy

According to the WHO, approximately 1.9 billion adults are overweight, with over 650 million with obesity . Recent statistics indicate that overweight/obesity continues to increase globally, with the overweight population reaching 2 billion, or 30 % of the world's population . Obesity is a major global epidemic, defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “an excessive accumulation of body fat that may impair health” 1,2. There was a significant negative correlation in the exponential pattern between age and weight reduction effect, whereas baseline weight and BMI had no significant impact. Clinical trials SUSTAIN (Semaglutide Unabated Sustainability in Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes) and PIONEER (Peptide Innovation for Early Diabetes Treatment) investigated the effect of semaglutide 1.0 mg subcutaneously as well as oral forms. In oral pills, salcaprozate sodium (SNAC) is added to semaglutide to increase absorption since it prevents PH breakdown . It slows down the movement of food in the gastrointestinal tract and regulates blood sugar after a meal . For many patients, the convenience outweighs the extra effort. Always review your health history with a qualified provider before starting GLP-1 therapy. These side effects are similar to those of injectable GLP-1s and are typically most noticeable during the first few weeks of treatment. The results of major clinical trials suggest how much weight the average user may expect to lose. All three GLP-1s are injectable medications that come in prefilled pens. The drugs also boast other long-term benefits, such as protection against cardiovascular disease. Rybelsus contains oral semaglutide, while tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Side effects are usually manageable, but patients with a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis should avoid them. These side effects are most common when you first start taking a GLP-1, or when your dose gets increased, but they often improve as you take them consistently, says Dr. Lofton. GLP-1 therapy is used as one part of a comprehensive plan, alongside nutrition, metabolic health, and long-term lifestyle support. Ongoing monitoring helps minimize side effects and ensure proper nutrition and metabolic support. For many patients, the difference between short-term results and long-term success comes down to how closely the program is monitored.

• That compares to about 21% average weight loss for Zepbound, Eli Lilly’s GLP-1 drug.
• GLP-1RA drugs came out on top, not only controlling blood glucose but also reducing the risk of major heart-related events and the risk of death overall.
• The shaded gray area represents the range of doses administered in the included studies, while the plotted points indicate the maximum, median, and minimum drug doses observed across the studies.
• If you’re serious about results, stick to FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight loss.
• Furthermore, there are very tangible side effects including hypoglycemia, gastrointestinal effects, cardiovascular risks, and drug interactions .
• Current research suggests that GLP-1 receptors are present throughout the body; hence, its effect extends beyond glycemic control .
• Costs average $12,000 yearly, but telehealth options can lower it.
• “This isn’t a failing of the medicines—it reflects the nature of obesity as a chronic, relapsing condition.

Obesity is largely considered a risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes. Social media platforms can also be a source of social support, which is often critical to improved health outcomes for a variety of diseases. For instance, a study found that more than half of respondents who underwent rhinoplasty did so due to social media “before and after” advertisements . At Rise Men’s Health, we believe weight loss should never be one-size-fits-all. Talk to a medical provider about oral versus injectable weight loss therapies to ensure you select a treatment aligned with your biology and personal goals. The right choice also depends on whether you have diabetes, gastrointestinal conditions, or other health considerations. The payoff is typically stronger weight loss outcomes and fewer disruptions to your daily routine. GLP-1 medications are not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). A study published in 2023 found that people taking 15 milligrams of tirzepatide lost an average of 26 pounds. A systematic review published in 2022 that combined the results of 23 studies found that people taking 2.4 milligrams of semaglutide lost an average of 27.4 pounds. “GLP-1 agonists are also approved for type 2 diabetes,” says Pessah-Pollack, “and if you have this indication separately, it’s important to include this diagnosis when sending your prescription to the pharmacy.” Additionally, the FDA removed tirzepatide from its drug shortage list in early October 2024, and it removed semaglutide from the list in February 2025. Thus, current studies are interested in the differential efficacy, benefits, and side effects of these different forms of semaglutide. Others are troubled by the harm caused by social media platforms and celebrities heralding medications such as Ozempic® as quick, cosmetic fixes without acknowledging the side effects and the fact that discontinuation results in weight gain. Physicians and patients should be aware of the unique aspects of existing treatment options, the impacts of off-label prescribing, and the effects of these medications. GLP-1 therapies (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a class of medications that mimic the natural GLP-1 hormone, which helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Values exceeding 80 % suggest that the dosage of the drug has approached or reached its efficacy plateau. The orange line represents the typical dose-response curve of the drug, while the purple line shows the percentage of efficacy at each dose relative to the maximum effect of each drug. Owing to the limited number of time points available for some drugs, it was not possible to estimate the k values individually for each drug. The Emax values for 12 GLP-1RA drugs ranged from 4.25 kg to 22.6 kg, with Retatrutide exhibiting the highest Emax value and Liraglutide the lowest. Among these publications, studies on mono-agonists included 18 on Liraglutide, 11 on injectable Semaglutide, two on oral Semaglutide, three on Exenatide, two on Danuglipron, and two on Orforglipron. Some of these are GLP-1 agonists, while others combine GLP-1 with additional pathways like GIP for enhanced effect. Now, oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) has made daily pill-based GLP-1 therapy possible, opening doors for those who prefer not to use needles. It also increases the release of insulin while reducing the liver’s production of excess sugar, helping stabilize blood sugar levels. At BiltRx, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your body and your goals—then stay with you through every win along the way. When you need to lose weight and feel like nothing’s working, it’s easy to become despondent, but you’re far from alone. De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator. The graph on the left represents the 95 % CIs of the typical pure effect of weight reduction over 52 weeks, with the yellow stripe indicating Liraglutide and the purple stripe representing other drugs. Additionally, we conducted subgroup analyses based on receptor specificity to explore the differences in weight reduction effects among mono-agonists, dual-agonists, and tri-agonists. Based on the final model, simulations of the typical time-course of weight reduction by different drugs at various levels of covariates were conducted. For eligible patients, these programs can significantly reduce monthly costs, sometimes to as little as $10–$50. Both Novo Nordisk (maker of Rybelsus) and Eli Lilly (maker of tirzepatide) offer savings cards and patient assistance programs. However, given that its injectable counterpart (Zepbound) is similarly priced to Ozempic, experts expect the pill version to fall within the same range once approved. Since oral tirzepatide is still in development, exact pricing isn’t available. However, they do involve self-injection or assistance from a healthcare provider, which may feel intimidating at first. Additionally, most reputable compounding pharmacies are halting production, meaning any compounded medications still available may come from less reliable or poorly regulated sources. Today’s best GLP-1s for weight loss are injectables given weekly, requiring a prescription and medical supervision. Let medical support handle the biology of weight loss so you can focus on living your best life. Most significantly, this study found that danuglipron was able to reduce HbA1c% (ranging from 0.9% to 1.2% points lower depending on dosage) and weight (2.2 kg to 7.2 kg reduced depending on dosage) after just 28 days of administration . When administered at a dose of 300 mg, twice a day, patients reported side effects such as nausea and vomiting. Currently, danuglipron is undergoing clinical trials and is being tested as an oral medication to be taken twice a day available in varying doses of 10, 20, 40, 80, or 120 mg . Danuglipron is currently not FDA-approved as it has not passed phase three of clinical trials. Recent studies have shown that patients on high-dose semaglutide can lose an average of 15% to 20% of their body weight, a level previously achievable only with bariatric surgery. GLP-1 weight loss medications help regulate your appetite and insulin response, but they don’t shut down your body’s natural systems. Providers who continue offering compounded weight loss medications to most or all of their patients after these deadlines are operating outside of FDA guidelines and attempting to exploit regulatory loopholes. If you’re serious about results, stick to FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight loss. Just as we use medications to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes, GLP-1s offer medical support for those struggling with weight. Wegovy is also approved to lower the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in adults with heart disease and a larger body size. Rybelsus can help lower blood sugar levels in adults with Type 2 diabetes. Wait 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications. Many people on GLP-1 drugs lose a significant amount of weight. Well-known GLP-1 medications include semaglutide (Wegovy® and Ozempic®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound® and Mounjaro®). Many people struggle with weight loss, even when they eat healthily and stay active. She started her career in 2018 as a clinical dietitian and has experience in several clinical areas, including weight management, diabetes, kidney disease, oncology, gut health, and intuitive eating. For many people, hormones, metabolism, insulin resistance, stress, and inflammation all play a role — which is why traditional diet-and-exercise plans often fall short. If you are considering GLP-1 therapy, the Center for Wellness team can guide you in evaluating both benefits and risks within the context of your overall health. From reducing cardiovascular risk and protecting the brain to improving survival rates, they represent a major advancement in healthcare. Their full potential is realized when combined with functional medicine strategies, including nutrient-dense meals, digestive support, stress reduction, and targeted supplementation. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea, especially in the first few weeks of therapy.

• Overall, most people taking semaglutide at doses for weight loss (2.4 milligrams) can expect to lose 5 to 15 percent of their starting body weight.
• While there are several advantages to the medication, it is not without its side effects.
• There is also growing evidence for off-label antiobesity medications such as metformin and topiramate .
• Public insurance coverage for GLP-1 drugs obesity treatments is spotty in the United States.
• This is particularly true for drugs with few reported efficacy data points, making it challenging to accurately estimate their ET50 values.

We simulated the dose-response weight reduction effects at their lowest, median, and highest doses. Points on the right indicate the typical values of the pure effect of 52-week weight reduction for each drug, with error bars denoting 95 % CIs of the estimates. The lack of overlap between the two stripes indicates a significant difference in efficacy between the two drugs. “These medications were tested in clinical trials for safety and efficacy for many years before they came to the market,” she says. Now, GLP-1s are available for weight loss, but plenty of misconceptions exist about how best to use these drugs. GLP-1 medications are designed to enhance this natural hormone response, helping the body feel satisfied sooner, stay full longer, and better regulate blood sugar levels. For individuals in Peachtree City and the surrounding Fayette County area, GLP-1 medications have become an increasingly discussed option for medically supervised weight loss. GLP-1 medications are changing the way we think about diabetes, weight, and aging. (Learn more about the best types of bread for weight loss and blood sugar control.) These 6 power foods trigger your body’s natural GLP-1 for effortless weight loss The researchers’ model suggested that even though the alternative weight-maintenance programs might be slightly less effective than long-term, full-dosage GLP-1RA use, the clinical benefits would only decrease slightly, while lifetime healthcare spending would decrease substantially. “If large swathes of the general public start taking them off-label for weight loss and then we find out years later that there are bad side effects, it could be a real issue.” “The current fervor for GLP-1RAs in the capital markets as well as in the general public, especially in terms of weight reduction, is probably going to result in overuse,” said Chun-Su Yuan, MD, PhD, the Cyrus Tang Professor of Anesthesia and Critical Care at the University of Chicago. Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound and Mounjaro have been around for years, but they’ve recently been making headlines due to a rise in popularity as weight loss agents. What works for one person might not work for another, so at Hopkins MD, we take the time to get to know you, your body, and your health needs. However, it is difficult to draw overarching recommendations given the heterogeneity of underlying causes of obesity and weight gain. In some cases, metabolic/bariatric surgery may be considered an appropriate treatment for long-term weight loss. As global obesity rates continue to rise, many individuals are exploring solutions beyond lifestyle changes to address weight management. While it’s not included in the cost of a membership, the optional meal delivery service can be a great benefit for those who find that a lack of time to cook healthy food is a barrier to their weight loss efforts. With this membership, patients get a dedicated care team that includes a board-certified weight loss physician and a registered dietitian. Additionally, if you’re approved for GLP-1 medications, WeightWatchers will help coordinate care with your insurance provider. In 2023, it acquired the telehealth company Sequence, now called WeightWatchers Clinic, for its prescription weight loss program, which offers major brand-name GLP-1s. Its ability to promote weight loss can also alleviate obesity-related stress on the kidneys, improving overall kidney function. “By lowering blood sugar levels, semaglutide can reduce the strain on the kidneys caused by diabetes. These medicines are transforming obesity treatment and can achieve important weight loss. Those who took tirzepatide lost an average of 5.9% of their body weight after three months; 10.1% after six months; and 15.3% after 12 months. It’s thought to be more effective than semaglutide in helping people lose weight, according to research published in JAMA Internal Medicine in July 2024. 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. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and may carry greater risks than FDA-approved treatments. Learn more about obesity, including its causes and the latest treatment options. For the past 8 years, she has specialized in men’s health and primary care and is passionate about improving her patient’s quality of life. Yes, but combining the medication with a balanced diet and active lifestyle produces the best and most sustainable results. Existing GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies typically require subcutaneous administration which may be inconvenient for or not preferred by some patients, resulting in reduced adherence . Given the promising results from tirzepatide, it is possible that further research in synthetic peptide therapeutics will gain momentum . Residues originate from GLP-1, GIP, and semaglutide, and some residues are distinct. It is the first and only approved coagonist for GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) .