In this article:
1/ How does a GLP-1 medication work for weight loss?
2/ How much weight should I expect to lose?
3/ What does it feel like on a GLP-1?
5/ Do I start to lose weight right away?
6/ What if my weight stalls or plateaus?
7/ Will I still feel hungry and have cravings?
8/ Do I need to change my diet?
Whether you’ve heard the term “GLP-1” or not, you’ve most likely heard of GLP-1 weight-loss medications. Best known by their brand names, Saxenda (liraglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide), these prescription drugs are game changers for obesity. Naturally, they’ve created a lot of buzz — and a lot of questions. Let’s get to the facts.
How does a GLP-1 medication work?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists — or GLP-1s for short — are a class of medications that, while initially developed for type 2 diabetes, can be very effective at treating overweight and obesity too. They mimic a hormone already produced by the body called glucagon-like peptide-1, which targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. GLP-1 medications work by reducing food cravings, slowing the emptying of the stomach, and managing blood sugar. When used in conjunction with healthy habits, like eating nutrient-dense foods and getting in exercise, GLP-1 medications can be a powerful tool for weight loss.
What does it feel like on a GLP-1?
You can expect less hunger throughout the day, and that includes feeling full and satisfied eating smaller portions, and experiencing fewer cravings and what some people call “food noise,” a constant inner dialogue about food that is intrusive and affects quality of life. Some people notice changes in food preferences too, saying that certain foods or alcohol don’t appeal to them like they did before.
What about side effects? Should I be worried about them?
The most common GLP-1 side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, and they tend to be temporary, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn. For a complete list of potential side effects, visit the manufacturer websites for: Saxenda (liraglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide), the three GLP-1 medications that are FDA-approved for overweight and obesity.
The good news is that a balanced diet — that’s rich in protein and fiber, lower in fat, and includes lots of water — can help manage many of these common GI side effects. Slowly increasing your dose can help as well. These are all things that the Care Team at WeightWatchers Clinic helps members navigate.
Do I start to lose weight right away?
This also depends. Weight loss happens more quickly for people who experience appetite suppression right away on the starting dose. For others who are not as sensitive to the medication, weight loss may not start until they reach higher doses. It is also common to see faster weight loss in the initial few weeks, followed by a few weeks of slower weight loss. Some people experience greater changes in inches and clothing sizes than in numbers on the scale. Everyone is different, and so are their weight journeys.
What if my weight stalls or plateaus?
Weight plateaus are very common during a weight-loss journey, with or without a GLP-1 medication. While it can feel frustrating, we encourage you to not stress about it unless the plateau lasts longer than 4 to 6 weeks. In that case, it’s a good idea to check in with your prescribing healthcare provider. Sometimes it means you just need to go up in your dose of the medicine, or make adjustments to your diet and exercise program.
Will I still feel hungry and have cravings?
The goal of the medication is to reduce your appetite to a more manageable level — not to completely eliminate it. Hunger is a very normal part of human biology, and hunger cues are actually very important. Cravings are also very normal to experience, so if the medication does not eliminate cravings entirely for you, that’s okay. People do report more manageable cravings, though, and they often find that their cravings are more easily satisfied (for example, by a couple bites of ice cream as opposed to a sundae).
Do I start to lose weight right away?
This also depends. Weight loss happens more quickly for people who experience appetite suppression right away on the starting dose. For others who are not as sensitive to the medication, weight loss may not start until they reach higher doses. It is also common to see faster weight loss in the initial few weeks, followed by a few weeks of slower weight loss. Some people experience greater changes in inches and clothing sizes than in numbers on the scale. Everyone is different, and so are their weight journeys.
Do I need to change my diet?
These medications are incredibly powerful tools, but they shouldn’t be your only tool. It’s important to incorporate healthy habits related to food, nutrition, fitness, mental health, and sleep — to maximize the efficacy of the medication, and to support your long-term health. Not sure where to start? The WeightWatchers GLP-1 Program can help. It takes the guesswork out of healthy habits and provides you with targets for protein, fruits and veggies, hydration, and physical activity — including at least two days of resistance training.
Will I be on medication forever?
These weight-loss medications are intended for long-term use. Obesity is a chronic condition, similar to hypertension and heart disease, and therefore can require maintenance medication to manage it. Having said that, some patients may wish to try to come off the medicine. Studies show that most people who come off the medicine start to regain weight, though there is a small proportion of people who don’t. With WeightWatchers Clinic, your healthcare provider will help you to find the appropriate maintenance dose when the time is right. But you can always tell them if you’d like to try a lower dose or manage your weight without the medication. The program is comprehensive, meaning your provider, your Fitness Coach, and your Registered Dietitian work together to give you the tools you need to make lasting lifestyle changes, with or without medication.
How do I get a prescription for a GLP-1 weight-loss medication with WeightWatchers?
Take our 2-minute quiz to find out if WW Clinic is a fit for you. If you’re eligible and join, you’ll be able to make a virtual appointment with a provider to develop a medical weight-loss plan, which may include medication. With WeightWatchers Clinic, you’ll have access to a variety of resources that support lasting, comprehensive weight management. You’ll also get access to an expert Care Team, including a Registered Dietitian and Fitness Coach, who will provide ongoing support for your weight-loss journey.
Bottom line
By targeting the areas of the brain that regulate appetite and slowing digestion, GLP-1 medications can lead to significant weight loss. But they’re not a silver bullet — they’re a tool for the long-term treatment of obesity, to be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. WeightWatchers Clinic can help determine if you’re a good fit for GLP-1s, and provide comprehensive support throughout every step of your weight-health journey.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be regarded as a substitute for guidance from your healthcare provider.