Disclaimer: Speak to your healthcare provider before starting any kind of weight management treatment plan.
Medications like semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®), liraglutide (Saxenda®), and other GLP-1 receptor agonists have changed the way many people approach obesity and weight loss. These medications, originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, have shown strong results in supporting weight reduction when paired with healthy habits. If you’re curious about how they work and what to expect, read about the basics below.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1. It is a hormone your body naturally produces in response to eating. It helps regulate blood sugar, slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, and plays a role in signaling fullness to your brain.
GLP-1 medications mimic this hormone. By doing so, they help:
- Increase feelings of fullness
- Reduce appetite
- Slow gastric emptying (how fast food moves through your digestive system)
- Improve blood sugar regulation
These effects can lead to a meaningful reduction in calorie intake over time, which supports weight loss.
Which Medications Are GLP-1s?
Some of the most well-known GLP-1 receptor agonists include:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®): Approved for both type 2 diabetes and weight management.
- Liraglutide (Saxenda®, Victoza®): Used for diabetes and weight loss in different doses.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®): A newer medication that targets two pathways (GLP-1 and GIP), showing promising weight loss outcomes.
There are also combination therapies and newer medications in development or already approved that use similar mechanisms.
What Results Can You Expect?
Studies show that people using these medications can lose anywhere from 5 to 15 percent (or more) of their starting weight, depending on the specific medication and how long they use it. The results are often more significant when paired with lifestyle changes like healthy eating and movement. It’s important to know:
- These medications work best as part of a comprehensive plan that includes nutrition, physical activity and support.
- Weight loss usually happens gradually over several months.
- The medication must be taken consistently and under medical supervision.
Are There Side Effects?
As with all medications, side effects are possible. The most common include nausea, constipation, diarrhea and reduced appetite. These effects are often temporary and can sometimes be reduced by starting with a lower dose and increasing gradually.
More serious risks are rare but can include pancreatitis or gallbladder issues. This is why it’s essential to work with a qualified healthcare provider who can monitor your progress and help you determine if the medication is a good fit.
How Do I Get Started?
These medications require a prescription and should be managed by a provider familiar with obesity medicine or endocrinology. If you’re interested in exploring this option, you can search for a qualified professional through ObesityCareProviders.com.
Why Ongoing Support Still Matters
While GLP-1 medications can help regulate appetite and improve metabolic markers, they are most effective when combined with lifestyle support. Regular check-ins with a healthcare provider, dietitian or support group can help you adjust your nutrition, activity and habits to match your body’s changing needs over time.
Conclusion
GLP-1 medications are evidence-based tools that support body weight loss and metabolic health as part of a comprehensive care plan. When combined with nutrition, physical activity and ongoing medical support, they can help patients reach and maintain meaningful health improvements. Understanding how these therapies work is an important step in making informed decisions about your care.
By Cassie Story, RD, Nutrition Subject Matter Expert.
