03/05/2026
GLP-1 FAQs:
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 medications (such as semaglutide or tirzepatide) are weekly injections that:
• Reduce appetite
• Slow stomach emptying
• Decrease cravings
• Improve blood sugar regulation
They treat chronic metabolic disease and support sustainable fat loss.
How Much Weight Will I Lose?
Most patients lose 5–15% of body weight.
Losing just 5% improves:
• Blood pressure
• Blood sugar
• Cholesterol
• Joint pain
• Sleep apnea
• Fertility
Pregnancy & Birth Control
GLP-1 medications are NOT safe during pregnancy.
Important:
• Rapid weight loss may increase fertility
• Oral contraceptive pills may be less effective, especially during dose changes
• Use backup contraception
• Stop medication at least 2 months before trying to conceive
• Notify your provider immediately if pregnancy is suspected
Common Side Effects
Nausea
constipation/diarrhea/gas
Caused by slowed stomach emptying.
Tips:
• Eat smaller meals
• Avoid greasy foods
• Stop when full
• Eat slowly
• Ginger or peppermint may help
Usually improves with time.
Constipation
Very common due to slowed digestion.
Prevent early:
• 80–100 oz water daily
• Daily fiber (vegetables, chia, psyllium, flax)
• Magnesium at bedtime if needed
• Stay active
Contact provider if no bowel movement for 3+ days.
Fatigue
Common in first 4–8 weeks.
Causes:
• Reduced calorie intake
• Low protein
• Dehydration
• Electrolyte imbalance
Prevention:
• 80–100g protein daily (or per provider guidance)
• Do not skip meals entirely
• Add electrolytes if needed
• Take a multivitamin
• Consider B12 if recommended
Because you are eating less, food quality matters.
Focus on:
• High protein
• Vegetables
• Hydration
• Fiber
Low protein intake can lead to:
• Muscle loss
• Hair thinning
• Fatigue
• Slower metabolism
Exercise Recommendations
To protect muscle mass:
• Strength train 2–3x weekly
• Walk daily
• Maintain adequate protein
Without resistance training, you may lose muscle along with fat.
Temporary hair shedding can occur with rapid weight loss.
Usually related to:
• Calorie deficit
• Low protein
• Stress
Hair typically regrows once weight stabilizes.
Will I Regain Weight If I Stop?
Possibly. Depends if their are other health conditions involved or meds that may cause weight gain.
GLP-1 medications treat a chronic condition. Stopping abruptly without lifestyle support may lead to weight regain.
Best long-term success includes:
• Nutrition habits
• Strength training
• Adequate protein
• Gradual taper if discontinuing
Serious Symptoms (Call Provider Immediately)
• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Right upper abdominal pain after meals (possible gallbladder issue)
• Severe constipation with pain
• Signs of allergic reaction
Who Should NOT Use GLP-1s?
Do not use if you have:
• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
• MEN2 syndrome
• Active pregnancy or breastfeeding
Use caution with:
• History of pancreatitis
• Gallbladder disease