Frequently Asked Questions for GLP-1 Injections (Semaglutide/Tirzepatide)

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Several factors can affect your weight loss progress while on GLP-1 injections:

• Eating too many calories: Even though these medications help control appetite, consuming more calories than you burn will prevent weight loss.
• Lack of exercise: Movement is essential for overall health and maintaining muscle mass.
• Water retention: Weight fluctuations can happen due to sodium intake, hormonal changes, or stress.
• Building muscle: If you are strength training, you may see body recomposition (fat loss and muscle gain), which may not reflect as a drastic drop on the scale.

Tip: Track your food intake using apps like MyFitnessPal to ensure you are in a calorie deficit.

• The average weight loss is 2-4 lbs per week on these medications.
• Anything above this rate is often due to water loss, not fat loss.
• Losing weight too fast can lead to muscle loss, loose skin, and metabolic slowdown.

Tip: Slow and steady weight loss is the best way to preserve muscle and maintain long-term results.

• No, this does not happen because of the medication itself.
• Rapid weight loss from any method can lead to skin sagging due to loss of fat under the skin.
• To minimize these effects, prioritize strength training at least 3x per week and eat enough protein to preserve muscle mass.

• A general guideline is to consume at least 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.8-1g per pound of lean body mass).
• You can use free macro calculators like MyFitnessPal to track your daily protein intake.
• High-protein foods include lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu, Greek yogurt, and protein powders.

Tip: Eating adequate protein helps maintain muscle, supports metabolism, and keeps you full longer.

• GLP-1 injections are not magic solutions, they help reduce cravings and control appetite, making it easier to eat in a calorie deficit.
• You must still eat a whole-food, minimally processed diet and be mindful of portions.
• If you are not losing weight, you may be eating at maintenance or in a surplus despite reduced hunger.

Tip: Track your intake and aim for balanced meals with lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs.

• Increasing the dose too quickly is unsafe and will NOT speed up fat loss.
• Rapid weight loss increases the risk of:
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Gallstones, which may require surgery
  • Severe nausea, vomiting, and dehydration
• A slow and steady approach ensures that you lose fat mass instead of muscle and maintain results long-term.

• Nausea is a common side effect but can be managed by:
  • Eating smaller meals throughout the day.
  • Avoiding greasy, fried, or spicy foods.
  • Staying hydrated, drink water, ginger tea, or electrolyte solutions.
  • Not lying down immediately after eating.

Tip: If nausea persists, let your provider know. Your dose may need to be adjusted.

• Weight loss plateaus are normal! Your body adjusts as you lose weight.
• Your metabolism may slow down, and you may need to:
  • Adjust your calorie intake (your body burns fewer calories at a lower weight).
  • Increase movement or strength training.
  • Reassess food choices, processed foods can add up quickly.

Tip: If you’ve stalled for more than 3 weeks, speak with your provider about adjustments.

• Alcohol can worsen side effects like nausea and dizziness.
• Drinking alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of GLP-1 injections and interfere with weight loss by impacting blood sugar regulation and appetite control.
• Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medication to achieve the best results

Tip: Instead of alcohol, try filtered water with fresh lemon or lime, stevia-sweetened sodas, or carbonated water for a refreshing and satisfying alternative

• You can, but weight regain is likely if lifestyle habits are not maintained.
• These medications help with behavior change, but long-term success depends on diet, exercise, and portion control.
• Some people continue on a lower maintenance dose to sustain results.

Tip: Work with your provider to develop a long-term plan before stopping.

• You are not alone in this journey! We offer:
  • A free consultation with our VP of Clinical Services to discuss concerns.
  • Guidance on meal plans, specialty lab work, exercise recommendations, and lifestyle changes.
• Call our office to schedule an appointment or request a phone consultation.

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