A Comprehensive Guide to GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

The world of medications for weight loss is vast, and it can be difficult to make sense of all the available information. That’s why JRNYS is here to support you in making the right decision for your weight loss journey when it comes to prescription weight loss drugs. This GLP-1 medication guide will help you in finding out more about the benefits and answer some of your most common questions. 

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

A class of medications for weight loss called GLP-1 medications (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) – have proven to be particularly useful in assisting weight loss. GLP-1 medications are commonly used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and are extremely effective in this aspect. However, as a side-effect, they result in a substantial amount of weight loss. GLP-1 medications work by increasing the levels of the GLP-1 hormone in the body, which has important roles in regulating appetite and blood glucose.

Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Wegovy, Saxenda, Trulicity, Rybelsus, and other GLP-1 drugs are the most commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications. They’re prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes but, in addition to that, they stimulate weight loss by increasing satiety and reducing food intake. Each of these medications for weight loss has a slightly different profile, with varying benefits and side effects, making it crucial to find the one that meets your health and weight-loss needs.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work?

GLP-1 prescription weight loss drugs work by copying the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, produced naturally in the body. This hormone helps your body regulate hunger and food intake and keeps your blood sugar levels in check. When you take one of these medications for weight loss, it latches on to GLP-1 receptors in the body and kicks off a series of weight-loss-friendly processes. In fact, when used with diet and exercise, one study found participants taking GLP-1 medications lost nearly twice as much weight as those treated with other weight-loss drugs.

Appetite Control

GLP-1 medications increase feelings of fullness (known as satiety) by slowing the emptying of the stomach, which allows people to feel full longer after eating, thereby cutting calories. Diminishing hunger pangs makes it easier to stick to a dietary plan.

Blood Sugar Control

These drugs also act as blood sugar control agents. They release insulin, which is the hormone that helps to lower blood sugar, and they inhibit glucagon, the hormone that raises it. This keeps blood sugar levels level.

Further Benefits

GLP-1 prescription weight loss drugs have been shown to provide further benefits than just weight loss and lowering blood sugar. Some research suggests that they could also lower your risk of cardiovascular disease through improving blood pressure and cholesterol levels – this added health benefit is another reason why these medications could help to keep you in better health.

Comparing GLP-1 Medications

The GLP-1 medications for weight loss vary a fair amount so the one you choose is the most important factor in your success and safety. In this section, we will compare the most popular GLP-1 medications. We will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each medication in general, as well as potential side effects and their compatibility with various health profiles to help you determine what is best for you.

Ozempic (Semaglutide)

Benefits: 

• Ozempic is also effective for weight loss: In those clinical studies, many participants lost weight.
• Convenient Dosage: Ozempic is typically taken once a week, making it a convenient choice for people with a hectic lifestyle.
• Blood Sugar Control: Improves blood sugar control to assist with type 2 diabetes.

Potential Side Effects: 

• Digestive problems: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common but these side effects usually decrease over time as your body gets used to it.
• Hypoglycemia: When used with other diabetes medications, there’s a risk of low blood sugar.

Suitability: 

• For those seeking a once-weekly medication for weight loss and blood sugar control – especially type 2 diabetes – Ozempic might be a good fit. Are you wondering: Am I fit for Ozempic treatment? Find out more here. 
• Alternatives available at JRNYS include Wegovy or Compounded Semaglutide

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Benefits: 

• Greater Weight Loss: Studies showed that Mounjaro offers greater weight loss than other GLP-1 medications.
• Dosage Options: The formulation can be administered at different levels or dosages to suit the need of the patient.
• Additional Health Benefits: May offer cardiovascular benefits, improving overall heart health.

Potential Side Effects: 

• Digestive Upset: Nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are potential side effects, similar to other GLP-1 medications.
• Injection Site Reactions: Some users may experience redness or discomfort at the injection site.

Suitability: 

• Mounjaro is a good choice for people whose goals include major weight loss, or who may benefit from its cardiovascular benefits. Dosing can also be adjusted to your needs, based on your progress and tolerance. Find out more about Mounjaro.
• Alternatives available at JRNYS include Zepbound and Compounded Tirzepatide

Other GLP-1 Medications

Other lesser-known GLP-1 medications such as Trulicity (Dulaglutide) and Saxenda (Liraglutide) can provide similar benefits and may be appropriate for other health profiles and preferences.

Trulicity (Dulaglutide):

• Advantages: Given once weekly, similar to Ozempic, it aids weight loss as well as blood sugar control.
• Suitability: Good for those who want a weekly medication that has already been shown to help control type 2 diabetes and lead to weight loss.

Saxenda (Liraglutide):

• Advantages: Taken once a day, it is indicated for weight loss and for use in adults with obesity or overweight with comorbid medical problems.
• Suitability: For those who are primarily focused on weight loss and are not in need of blood sugar management as a primary goal.

Zepbound™ (Tirzepatide Injection)

Zepbound™ is a groundbreaking treatment for obesity, offering a novel approach by uniquely targeting and activating both the GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone receptors. This dual action makes Zepbound™ the first of its kind, providing powerful results in weight loss and blood sugar management.

Benefits: 

• Significant Weight Loss: In clinical studies involving 2,539 adults, Zepbound™ demonstrated remarkable results, with 1 in 3 patients at the highest dose experiencing a weight loss of up to 58 pounds, or 25% of their body weight.
• Enhanced Satiety: Zepbound™ helps you feel full faster and for longer periods, making it easier to control food intake and adhere to a weight loss plan.
• Improved Blood Sugar Control: By improving your body’s response to sugars, Zepbound™ effectively lowers A1C levels, which is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes.

Potential Side Effects:

• Injection Site Reactions: Redness and itching at the injection site are common but typically mild.
• Digestive Issues: Side effects such as loss of appetite, nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea or constipation may occur, particularly as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Fatigue: Some users report feeling tired after taking Zepbound™.

Suitability:

Zepbound™ is an ideal choice for individuals struggling with obesity who are looking for a highly effective weight loss solution that also offers significant blood sugar control benefits. Its unique dual-action mechanism makes it particularly effective for those who need to lose a substantial amount of weight. Administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, Zepbound™ is a convenient option for individuals committed to a long-term weight management plan.

For those interested in exploring whether Zepbound™ is the right choice, consulting with your JRNYS healthcare provider can help tailor this treatment to your specific health needs and weight loss goals.

Get Started Today

Starting a weight loss program with GLP-1 medications can be life-changing, and JRNYS wants to be a part of that journey so you don’t have to do it alone. We provide personalized care to our patients so that you can find the best treatment for your individual needs. Dr. Legere and our medical staff have the expertise to address your health concerns as you embark on your weight loss journey and reclaim your health. 

Are you ready to shed some pounds? Join JRNYS to personalize your weight loss plan and start your journey to a healthier you.