GLP-1 for Weight Loss: Your First Steps to Success
GLP-1 medication is a significant step toward a healthier lifestyle if you’re starting your journey to lose weight. With this powerful tool in your hands, it’s normal to be curious about what to expect in the early weeks and how to get the most out of your treatment.
GLP-1 is a medication designed to reduce hunger and support steady weight loss. In this guide, we’ll cover the first few weeks of treatment, how to handle common side effects like nausea, and the right way to administer your injections.
How GLP-1 Works for Weight Loss
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a hormone your body naturally produces after you eat. It signals to your brain that you’re full and slows down how quickly your stomach empties. The GLP-1 medication mimics this natural process, helping you feel fuller faster and for longer periods. This reduction in appetite helps you consume fewer calories, which leads to weight loss.
Originally designed for people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 has become an effective tool for weight loss even in non-diabetic individuals. It’s all about helping you feel satisfied without overeating.
What to Expect in the First Few Weeks
In the first few weeks of GLP-1 treatment, you’ll likely experience a noticeable reduction in your appetite. Many patients report losing 3-5 pounds in the first month, though results vary based on lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. If the weight loss doesn’t happen right away, don’t worry — steady progress is the goal, and every small step adds up.
One common side effect in the early stages is nausea, which happens because the medication slows your digestion. The good news is that nausea typically fades as your body adjusts.
Tips to Manage Nausea
If nausea becomes an issue in the first few weeks, here are some tips to help manage it:
- Eat smaller meals more frequently: Large meals can make nausea worse. Stick to smaller portions throughout the day.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking water regularly helps keep your digestive system working smoothly and can reduce nausea.
- Avoid rich, greasy, or spicy foods: These foods can trigger nausea. Focus on lighter meals that are easier on your stomach.
- Take your time while eating: Eating slowly gives your body a chance to recognize when you’re full, which can help avoid discomfort.
Most patients find that nausea fades after the first couple of weeks. If it persists, your nurse practitioner or physician assistant can adjust your dosage or offer other remedies.
Weekly Injections: How and When They Work
GLP-1 is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week, which means it goes just under your skin into the fatty tissue. You will use a syringe to inject the medication, so it’s important to know how to do this correctly to avoid discomfort or irritation.
After your injection, you may notice that your appetite is reduced within 24-48 hours, but some people experience breakthrough hunger toward the end of the week as the medication starts to wear off. This is completely normal, and it’s important to stick to your prescribed dose rather than taking more to control hunger.
How to Give Yourself the Injection
Here’s a step-by-step guide to injecting the medication:
- Pick the injection site: The stomach, thigh, or upper arm are the best areas. Make sure to rotate the sites to avoid irritation at one spot.
- Clean the area: Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin. Allow it to dry completely before injecting.
- Prepare the syringe: Follow the instructions from our experts to draw the correct dose into the syringe.
- Inject the medication: Pinch the skin at the injection site, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, and push the plunger to administer the medication. Remove the syringe slowly.
- Dispose of the syringe: Place the used syringe in a sharps container for safe disposal.
Staying Consistent and Safe
While GLP-1 is highly effective, it’s crucial to use the medication as directed. Don’t take more than your prescribed dose, even if you feel extra hungry toward the end of the week. Taking too much can cause side effects like vomiting or dehydration.
By following the right dosing schedule and sticking to your healthy eating habits, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re thinking about starting GLP-1 for weight loss, the next step is scheduling a consultation. During your visit, your nurse practitioner or physician assistant will ask about your health history, current eating habits, and weight loss goals. Some questions they might ask include:
- What other weight loss methods have you tried?
- Are you currently taking any medications?
- What kind of support do you have for making lifestyle changes?
During your consultation, you’ll also have the chance to ask questions about the medication and your treatment plan.
We understand that cost can be a concern for patients, but there’s good news — you can use your HSA (Health Savings Account) or HRA (Health Reimbursement Arrangement) dollars to pay for this treatment. This means you can cover your medical expenses using pre-tax dollars, making it a more affordable option. Many patients find this benefit helpful in managing the cost of long-term treatments like GLP-1.
Take the next step toward a healthier you. Call our office today at (832) 307-7106 to schedule your appointment and get started on your weight loss journey with the support and guidance you need!