GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

Frequently Asked Questions about GLP-1s for Weight Loss with Alison Karmin, PA-C

How effective are GLP-1 medications for weight loss?

GLP-1 medications are very effective tool to kick start the weight loss process for patients. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide help regulate a person’s appetite by quieting the “food noise”. In addition to incorporating healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and a balanced diet, these medications are extremely helpful for patients in achieving their weight loss goals.

How do GLP-1 medications work?

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking natural hormones that regulate appetite and digestion. They delay gastric emptying and increase your insulin secretion. The combination sends signals to your brain to decrease your appetite and subsequently your food intake. In other words, you feel full longer! Patients often describe the medication as helping to quiet the “food noise”. As a result, people often have decreased appetite, which ultimately helps them to lose weight.

What is the difference between Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, whereas Tirzepatide is a newer medication and targets twohormone receptors, GLP-1 and GIP. Like GLP-1, GIP medications reduce appetite but also boost fat metabolism and improve insulin sensitivity. Therefore, because Tirzepatide targets two hormones, it is found to offer improved metabolism and greater weight loss benefits. It is also shown to be effective in patients with PCOS.

Who is a good candidate for GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 medications can be prescribed for a person whose BMI is 27 or greater. BMI is a calculation based on your height and weight. Exclusions and contraindications include anyone with Type 1 Diabetes, family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2. Patient safety is my number one priority, so prior to being approved to begin the medication, I will obtain a thorough history and lab work to ensure you are an appropriate candidate.

Are there any dietary restrictions when taking GLP-1 medications?

You don’t have to adhere to any specific diet and there are no dietary restrictions. Patients should maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet for optimal success. I encourage patients to eat small frequent meals to combat any nausea side effects from the medication.

So, what happens the first week of using GLP-1s?

GLP-1 medications are once-weekly medications that are self-injected subcutaneously in your abdomen. The first injection will be performed in office, as I provide education regarding technique and answer any initial questions. The goal is to have limited unfavorable side effects, while also seeing positive results. Therefore, I will start patients at the lowest dose and increase incrementally to minimize any side effects. Therefore, some patients will see early results and lose weight in the first week, while others may see results at higher dosages.

What are the typical side effects to GLP-1 Medications?

The most common side effect is nausea. Patients will be prescribed anti-nausea medication to be taken as needed. Less commonly, patients may experience constipation, diarrhea, or acid reflux. Other potential, but very rare, side effects are abdominal discomfort or distention, gastritis, amylase or lipase increase, hypoglycemia, diabetic retinopathy or injection site reaction.

What results can the average person expect from using Semaglutide or Tirzepatide?

The overall goal is to lose about 1 to 2 pounds per week, however results vary for individuals.

How long do patients use Semaglutide or Tirzepatide for weight loss?

The first round of medication lasts 8-10 weeks, depending on a patient’s dosage. Some patients complete one 10-week course and are pleased with their progress, while others remain on the medication for up to a year. The length of treatment varies based on a patient’s goals, rate of weight loss and tolerance of the medication. My goal is to help patients achieve their weight loss goals and incorporate lifestyle changes to feel their best!