GLP-1 Weight Loss FAQ's

GLP-1 medications work with hormone pathways involved in appetite, digestion, and blood sugar regulation. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these medications can help reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and influence how quickly food moves through the stomach, which may help reduce food intake and support weight management. Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while tirzepatide works on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors.

Some GLP-1-based medications are FDA-approved for chronic weight management when used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Semaglutide is available as an FDA-approved weight-management treatment, and tirzepatide is also FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or adults who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition.

FDA approval and eligibility for treatment are not the same thing. Your healthcare provider will evaluate your health history, weight-related factors, medications, and other considerations to determine whether a particular treatment may be appropriate for you.

Along with its needed effects, semaglutide may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking semaglutide:

More common side effects

• anxiety
• bloating
• blurred vision
• chills
• cold sweats
• confusion
• constipation
• cool, pale skin
• cough
• darkened urine
• depression
• diarrhea
• difficulty swallowing
• dizziness
• fast heartbeat
• fever
• headache
• increased hunger
• indigestion
• large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• nervousness
• nightmare
• pain in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
• seizures
• skin rash
• slurred speech
• tightness in the chest
• trouble breathing
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting
• yellow eyes or skin

Other side effects of semaglutide

Some side effects of semaglutide may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common side effects

• acid or sour stomach
• belching
• excess air or gas in stomach
• feeling pressure in the stomach
• heartburn
• passing gas
• stomach discomfort, swelling, tenderness, or upset

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we closely monitor patients using semaglutide as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan. Your healthcare provider can also suggest ways to minimize side effects and ensure safe, effective treatment.

The most common side effects associated with GLP-1-based weight-loss medications include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. Side effects can vary from person to person and may change as treatment progresses.

More serious adverse reactions are possible, so it is important to take these medications under appropriate medical supervision. Your provider can discuss the potential side effects associated with your specific medication and advise you about symptoms that may require medical attention.

GLP-1 weight loss treatment may be an option for adults who meet certain medical criteria based on their weight, health history, and weight-related conditions. For example, FDA-approved weight-management indications for semaglutide and tirzepatide include adults with obesity or adults who are overweight with at least one weight-related condition.

Meeting a general BMI or health criterion does not automatically mean that treatment is appropriate. During your consultation, Medical Care Solutions will review your individual health history, goals, medications, and other factors to determine whether GLP-1 treatment may be right for you.

Weight-loss results vary from person to person. The amount of weight you may lose can depend on the medication being used, dosage, treatment duration, individual response, nutrition, physical activity, and other health factors.

GLP-1 treatment is intended as part of an ongoing approach to weight management rather than a quick fix. Your healthcare provider can monitor your progress and help determine whether your treatment plan should be continued or adjusted.

The amount of weight loss with semaglutide can vary depending on dosage, individual response, and how long you use it.

• Clinical studies show that patients taking 2.4 mg of semaglutide lost an average of 6% of their body weight by week 12 and about 12% by week 28.
• Individual results may vary, with some people losing more or less than these averages.
• Dosage matters, and higher doses may lead to greater weight loss, but all dosing should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we create personalized plans to help patients achieve safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss with semaglutide.

Yes. FDA-approved weight-management indications for semaglutide and tirzepatide specify their use along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. GLP-1 medication is not intended to replace healthy lifestyle habits.

At Medical Care Solutions, lifestyle factors can be incorporated into your personalized weight management plan to support your treatment goals.

The effects of stopping GLP-1 treatment can vary from person to person. Some patients may experience changes in appetite or regain some of the weight they previously lost after stopping treatment.

Your provider can help you determine whether continuing, adjusting, or stopping treatment is appropriate based on your goals, health, and response to treatment. If treatment is discontinued, discussing a long-term weight management plan with your healthcare provider can help you determine the next steps.

Certain medications may require additional consideration when starting GLP-1 treatment. For example, using certain GLP-1-based medications with insulin or medications that increase insulin release can increase the risk of low blood sugar. Your healthcare provider should also know about all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and supplements you take.

During your consultation, Medical Care Solutions can review your current medications and health history to help determine whether GLP-1 treatment is appropriate for you.

Medical Care Solutions' GLP-1 weight loss program is currently offered on a self-pay basis, and insurance is not currently accepted for the program. Program pricing and included services are reviewed before treatment begins so you understand what to expect.

For current program pricing and details about what is included with treatment, please contact Medical Care Solutions.