Starting a GLP1- Patient Guidance

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications are used for weight management and metabolic health. They work by:

• Reducing appetite and “food noise”

• Slowing stomach emptying so you feel full longer

• Improving blood sugar regulation

• Helping reduce cravings and overeating

Examples include:

• Semaglutide

• Tirzepatide

• Liraglutide

These medications work best when combined with nutrition, hydration, movement, sleep, and adequate protein intake.

What to Expect When Starting

Common Early Symptoms

Many patients experience mild symptoms during the first several weeks, especially after dose increases.

Common side effects may include:

• Nausea

• Fullness or decreased appetite

• Constipation

• Mild fatigue

• Reflux or burping

• Occasional diarrhea

These symptoms are usually temporary and improve as the body adjusts.

Important Tips to Reduce Side Effects

Eat Smaller Meals

Large meals are harder to tolerate while on GLP-1 medications.

Helpful strategies:

• Eat slowly

• Stop eating before overly full

• Choose smaller portions

• Avoid overeating “because you barely ate earlier”

Prioritize Protein

Goal: approximately 80–120 grams of protein daily for many adults (individualized based on body size and goals).

Protein helps:

• Preserve muscle mass

• Improve satiety

• Reduce fatigue

• Support metabolism during weight loss

Examples:

• Eggs

• Greek yogurt

• Chicken

• Fish

• Cottage cheese

• Protein shakes

Hydration Matters

Dehydration is very common on GLP-1 medications.

Aim for:

• Plenty of water daily

• Electrolytes if needed

• Extra fluids during exercise or heat exposure

Signs of dehydration:

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Constipation

• Fatigue

• Dark urine

Prevent Constipation Early

Constipation is one of the most common side effects.

Helpful options:

• Magnesium glycinate or citrate

• Psyllium fiber/Methylcellulose fiber

• Chia seeds/flaxseed

• Increased fluids

• Walking/exercise

• Miralax if becomes severe

Seek medical guidance if severe constipation develops.

Foods Often Better Tolerated

Usually Easier:

• Lean protein

• Soups

• Cooked vegetables

• Fruit

• Protein shakes

• Small balanced meals

Often Worse:

• Fried foods

• Heavy greasy meals

• Excess alcohol

• Very sugary foods

• Large portions

Exercise Is Important

Weight loss without muscle preservation can reduce metabolic rate.

Recommended:

• Walking daily

• Resistance/strength training 2–4 times weekly

• Adequate protein intake

The goal is fat loss while preserving lean muscle mass.

When to Contact Your Physician

Please contact your physician if you develop:

• Persistent vomiting

• Severe abdominal pain

• Signs of dehydration

• Inability to eat or drink

• Severe constipation

• Fainting

• Symptoms of gallbladder problems:

  • right upper abdominal pain

  • pain after fatty meals

  • fever

  • vomiting

Important Safety Information

GLP-1 medications may not be appropriate for patients with:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer

• MEN2 syndrome

• History of pancreatitis (in some cases)

• Severe gastroparesis

Always inform your physician about:

• Other medications

• Supplements

• Pregnancy plans

• Prior gastrointestinal conditions

Healthy Weight Loss Expectations: 0.5 lbs - 1lb weekly

Most successful patients focus on:

• Long-term habits

• Protein intake

• Movement

• Sleep

• Consistency

The goal is sustainable metabolic improvement — not rapid starvation-based weight loss.