Top 5 Q&A About Weight Medications (like Ozempic)!

We get asked A LOT of questions about the GLP medications (like Ozempic). Many of our clients are using or are considering using one of these meds to aid in their health journey, so here are a few of our top questions and answers.

‍Important note: This information is meant to supplement, not replace, guidance from your medication prescriber and trusted medical providers! Always speak to your doctor about your risks and benefits.

‍1. What are the differences among the various medications?

‍The medications getting the most attention right now are forms of semaglutide, which targets GLP-1, or tirzepatide, which targets both GLP-1 and GIP. Semaglutide is sold on the market as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Tirzepatide is sold as Mounjaro and Zepbound. All are injectable medications except for Rybelsus, which is an oral pill.

‍2. Will these medications help me lose weight and if so, how?

‍The new(ish) weight medications on the market include semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound). These medications work by mimicking naturally-occurring hormones in the body (GLP-1, GIP) that help regulate appetite and metabolism. More specifically, they do the following: (1) bind to special receptors in the brain to reduce hunger; (2) slow emptying of food from the stomach to increase satiety (i.e., fullness); (3) trigger the release of insulin from the pancreas to regulate blood sugar. Collectively, these effects often result in weight loss. Some evidence also suggests that these medications boost metabolism (i.e., calories burned) to reduce fat storage in the body. While not everyone who uses one of these medications loses weight, there are other ways GLPs might help. Current data suggest that they can help in reducing sleep apnea symptoms and improving some cardiovascular outcomes as well.

3. How long will I have to take medication like Ozempic?

‍The answer is 'it is complicated.' New data show that many people stop taking GLPs within 2 years, but the reasons for stopping are complex and what happens when you stop is complex, too. In general, the length of time you choose to take a GLP-1/GIP medication depends on your health goals, response to treatment, and guidance from your prescriber. While research is ongoing, some evidence shows that the health effects from the medications mostly last only as long as you are taking them. But this appears to not be such a cut and dry conclusion. Why? Many reasons, but most importantly, everyone's biology and psychology is unique. The bottom line? Health is a long-term process requiring long-term work and support, but just how and what your body needs might vary over time. Work closely with trusted medical and behavioral health specialists to keep assessing what is working and what isn't.

4. What are the side effects?

Like most drugs, side effects vary by individual and should be discussed in depth with your prescriber. In general, however, the most common physical side effects include nausea, diarrhea and/or constipation, and abdominal discomfort. For some who lose significant amounts of weight on a GLP (or for that matter, through any means), loss of muscle mass is an outcome that needs to be monitored and balanced by adequate protein intake, strength training and more. Additionally, there can be important psychological side effects, too. For people that have a history of body image concerns or eating disorders, these medications may pose a risk of increased focus on body weight and shape. It is strongly suggested that people with a history of disordered eating work closely with a trained behavioral health specialist before, during (and after) using a GLP medication. Remember, these are powerful medications that should only be used as part of an overall health plan that is guided and adjusted by a comprehensive medical team.

5. What are "compounded" drugs, and are they safe alternatives?

‍Compounded medications are customized formulations prepared at licensed pharmacies (as opposed to the pharmaceutical companies marketing drugs under their brand names, e.g., Wegovy). Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are available in compounded forms. However, compounded medications are not regulated by health authorities like the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) like the brand name drugs. Further, The Obesity Society, Obesity Action Coalition, and Obesity Medicine Association issued official recommendations against using compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide in January, 2024. You can read it here.

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If you have other questions about using medications, or you need additional support in managing the psychological and behavioral aspects of long-term weight management, please reach out to us. We have space for clients ages 10+!