GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy, Zepbound, and tirzepatide are increasingly prescribed for weight loss and diabetes management. However, while these medications show promising results, patients need to understand the potential risks, benefits, and the factors that influence their effectiveness.
Myth: Taking a GLP-1 drug guarantees significant weight loss
GLP-1 drugs are designed to slow stomach emptying, which can aid in weight loss. However, it’s important to note that nothing guarantees weight loss with these medications. Their success rate is high, but various factors, including dosage, adherence to the medication, diet, and exercise, significantly impact outcomes.
Clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of these drugs. Eli Lilly’s trials on tirzepatide revealed that participants lost more than 26.6% of their body weight over 84 weeks. A separate 72-week trial indicated that 91% of those taking the maximum 15 mg dose experienced a weight reduction of 5% or more. By one year, tirzepatide patients saw an average weight loss of over 15%, compared to about 8% for those on semaglutide.
The FDA has established guidelines for using GLP-1 drugs, aiming for at least 5% total body weight loss within 12 weeks. This benchmark helps physicians monitor progress and make necessary adjustments. Dr. Janese Laster emphasized this point: “The FDA has given us guidelines when using these medications, in that we expect at least 5% total body weight loss at 12 weeks.”
Different GLP-1 drugs serve distinct purposes. For instance, Zepbound is aimed at weight management, while Mounjaro targets diabetes treatment, despite both having the same weekly dose of 15 mg. Patients taking Mounjaro have shown a higher likelihood of achieving significant weight loss compared to other medications.
Cost is another consideration. A month’s supply of Ozempic or Zepbound can cost approximately $1,000. This expense underscores the importance of evaluating the cost-benefit ratio and exploring insurance coverage options.
Myth: You don’t have to exercise while taking GLP-1 drugs
Dr. Michael Glickman highlighted the societal aspects of obesity treatment: “Obesity already carries a lot of unnecessary societal stigma and shame, so it’s important that patients understand that it is largely out of their control regarding who is a responder or a non-responder.” He also stressed the importance of exercise in maintaining muscle mass during weight loss: “If we are not exercising during the weight loss journey, ultimately our metabolism can suffer because patients will lose a significant amount of muscle mass too.”
Resistance training plays a crucial role in preserving lean muscle mass during weight loss. Dr. Glickman noted, “Resistance training is especially critical for these efforts.” This form of exercise helps balance the effects of reduced calorie intake and supports overall metabolic health.
Myth: Side effects are unbearable (or no big deal)
In terms of side effects, HaVy Ngo-Hamilton advised patients to consult their doctors if they experience persistent issues: “If the side effects aren’t effectively controlled with symptom management and don’t decrease or resolve after three or more months on the medication with dosage increases, you should talk to your doctor about switching to a medication with a different mechanism of action or exploring a different category of weight loss drugs entirely.”
Ultimately, understanding the nuances of GLP-1 drugs is essential for patients seeking weight loss solutions. As HaVy Ngo-Hamilton stated, “The reality is that each of these is prescribed to achieve different health goals, and like any medication, they each come with potential risks that patients should be educated on in order to make informed decisions with their healthcare providers.”
With ongoing research and expert insights, patients and healthcare providers can better navigate the complexities of GLP-1 medications and optimize their use for improved health outcomes.
Parts of this article has been sourced by Healthline and fact-checked by Jill Seladi-Schulman, Ph.D.
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