Client Portal

Call Us: 412-467-6410

5 Myths About GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

“New” GLP-1 medications being used for weight loss, like semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), are offering new hope for those struggling with weight-related issues. Originally FDA-approved in 2017 for those with Type 2 Diabetes (T2B), semaglutide was also recently approved to help prevent further cardiovascular events in adults with cardiovascular disease and obesity. Tirzepatide was FDA-approved shortly after in November of 2023.

According to the Pew Research Center, over 8 million people received a prescription for semaglutide (or another GLP-1 drug) for weight loss, with numbers increasing since then. These statistics show that the weight loss landscape has changed significantly in recent years. From trying fad diets and strict workout routines to getting advice from social media influencers, the context behind losing weight is highly influenced by what’s trending—which can be both positive and negative. However, when there’s tons of misinformation floating around the internet, it’s challenging to know what’s fact and fiction.

Research is key when deciding if semaglutide is the right option for your weight loss journey. That’s why we’re breaking down some of the most common myths about these medications. We want you to have all the information you need to participate actively in your healthcare.

#1: I don’t need to worry about side effects.

The idea that GLP-1 medications have no side effects is simply not accurate. While medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are usually safe, they can still cause some unpleasant side effects. You might feel nauseous, vomit, have diarrhea, or experience redness or irritation at the injection site. These can be frustrating, especially if they start to interfere with your daily life. In rare cases, more severe side effects can happen, such as pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, or allergic reactions. It’s important to pay attention to how your body reacts to a GLP-1 medication, so if you suspect something is wrong, seek medical attention and contact your medication provider immediately.

#2 I don’t have to make any lifestyle changes.

Another false statement about GLP-1 medication is that it can lead to significant weight loss all on its own. While these medications can help you lose weight, they work much better when combined with healthy habits like eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly. If you make lifestyle changes, the medication might be more effective because it can also help you maintain weight loss over time, reducing the risk of weight regain. The habits you develop healthy habits, like a balanced diet and regular exercise, can become a part of your routine you can upkeep even after you stop taking the medication.

#3 It doesn’t matter which GLP-1 medication I take.

Not all GLP-1 medications are the same. For instance, semaglutide and tirzepatide are both injected once a week, but tirzepatide has a stronger dose. They don’t all work equally well, and they don’t all have the same side effects. Plus, some are administered differently for different age groups. Here’s a comparison of some of the GLP-1s:

It’s essential to meet with a provider who is up-to-date on your physical and mental health and knows your medical history and lifestyle.

#4 I’ll regain all my weight if I stop taking it.

Did you know that GPS-1s already exist within our bodies? Most people don’t. They’re hormones that help regulate our blood sugar by increasing insulin as needed, so medications like Wegovy or Ozempic act as appetite suppressants, causing you to feel more full after eating a meal and not think about food as much. When you stop taking a GLP-1, you won’t immediately start craving your favorite snacks. Regaining weight after stopping GLP-1 medication is possible, but it’s not inevitable. For example, a study from earlier this year reported that over half of the surveyed patients maintained their weight loss for a year or more after stopping, but between 17%-18% experienced weight gain. Therefore, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and monitoring your weight can help minimize weight regain. And remember, the aftereffects of any medication are unique to you; everyone’s body processes things differently.

#5 I’ll have to take GLP-1 medication forever.

Just because you start taking GLP-1 medication to lose weight, it doesn’t mean you’ll have to take it forever. The goal is to reach your target weight (which you and your doctor decide together) and then start living healthier habits. You might not need the medication once you’ve achieved your weight goal. But some people might choose to keep taking it because it helps with other health issues, like type 2 diabetes. For example, someone with diabetes might take GLP-1 medication for years to control their condition, and the bonus is that it also helps with weight loss and fights obesity, a common health problem seen with a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

Start Holistic Weight Loss Treatment with Balance Psychiatric Services

Weight loss is not just about shedding pounds; it’s about adopting a lifestyle that promotes overall well-being. The gold standard for managing weight loss is a holistic approach, which considers your unique needs, health status, and goals. This approach incorporates nutrition counseling, physical activity recommendations, stress management, and mental health support—which is exactly what we offer at Balance Psychiatric Services.

Each of our nurse practitioners specializes in general family care, psychiatric mental health, or both, so they’re equipped to help you with your weight loss journey. Our visits are virtual, so you also can get the care you need without worrying about travel or attending a visit in person. We’d love to work with you! Schedule an appointment by calling us at 412-467-6410 or fill out this contact form.