Weight loss results vary by individual, but clinical studies show that GLP-1 medications can lead to significant and sustained weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

Here’s what the research shows:

Semaglutide (Wegovy®) – STEP Trials

• Average weight loss: Up to 15% of total body weight

• Duration: 68-week study

• Study group: Adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27 with comorbidities)

• Participants also followed a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

• Source: NEJM, 2021 – STEP 1 Trial

Tirzepatide (Zepbound®, Mounjaro®) – SURMOUNT Trials

• Average weight loss: Up to 22.5% of total body weight at the highest dose (15 mg)

• Duration: 72 weeks

• Study group: Adults with obesity or overweight, without diabetes

• Tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, enhancing its effectiveness.

• Source: NEJM, 2022 – SURMOUNT-1 Trial

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Most patients start to see weight loss within the first few weeks, with more noticeable results over 3–6 months.

Results depend on dose, duration of use, and commitment to diet, activity, and lifestyle habits.

At AVYIA, we’ll monitor your progress closely and adjust your plan as needed to help you reach your goals safely.

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), and liraglutide (Saxenda®) are generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, they may cause side effects—especially when first starting or increasing the dose.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

• Stomach pain or cramping

• Bloating or gas

• Loss of appetite

• Indigestion or heartburn

• Fatigue or low energy (in early stages)

These side effects are usually mild and temporary, often improving as your body adjusts to the medication. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing helps minimize discomfort.

Less Common but Possible Side Effects:

• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, itching)

• Dizziness or headache

• Mild increase in heart rate

If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it’s important to contact your AVYIA provider so your dosing plan can be adjusted or additional support can be provided.

It’s possible to regain some or all of the weight after stopping GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®)—especially if lifestyle changes are not maintained.

In clinical studies, participants who discontinued GLP-1 therapy often experienced partial or full weight regain over time. For example:

STEP 4 Trial (Semaglutide)

• Participants who stopped taking semaglutide after 20 weeks regained two-thirds of the weight they had lost over the following year.

• Those who continued treatment maintained or continued losing weight.

• Source: Wilding et al., JAMA, 2021

This is because GLP-1 medications work by reducing appetite, improving satiety, and regulating blood sugar. Once the medication is stopped, those hormonal effects fade, and hunger cues may return to baseline, making it easier to overeat or revert to old patterns.

At AVYIA, our goal isn’t just short-term weight loss—it’s helping you build a foundation for long-term success. That includes:

• Support from licensed providers and health coaches

• Nutritional and behavioral guidance

• Exercise recommendations

• Gradual dose adjustments or tapering plans when the time is right.

GLP-1s are not meant to be a “forever medication” for everyone, but many people benefit from staying on them long enough to build sustainable habits that keep the weight off even after stopping.

GLP-1 medications typically start working within the first few days to weeks after your first dose, but the type of result you’re looking for may vary in timing.

Appetite & Cravings

• Many patients notice reduced hunger and fewer cravings within the first 1–2 weeks.

• You may start feeling full faster and eating smaller portions without trying.

Weight Loss

• Weight loss usually begins within the first 2–4 weeks and becomes more noticeable after 8–12 weeks.

• The pace may be gradual at first due to starting on a low dose (to minimize side effects), but it increases as the dose is titrated up.

Blood Sugar Control (for patients with type 2 diabetes)

• GLP-1s like semaglutide and tirzepatide can begin lowering blood glucose levels within days.

At AVYIA, we’ll monitor your progress closely and adjust your dose as needed to ensure you’re getting the most benefit from your treatment—safely and effectively.

Name-branded GLP-1 medications—such as Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound®—are FDA-approved, mass-manufactured drugs made by large pharmaceutical companies. They have undergone extensive clinical trials and are dispensed in pre-measured pens with standardized dosing and packaging.

Compounded GLP-1 medications, on the other hand, are custom-formulated versions of the same active ingredients (such as semaglutide or tirzepatide) made by licensed compounding pharmacies. These versions are often created when the branded medication is in short supply, or when a more personalized formulation or delivery method (e.g., multi-dose vial) is appropriate.

🔍 Key Differences:

Who Is Qualified for GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications—such as semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), and liraglutide (Saxenda®)—are prescribed to individuals who meet specific medical criteria related to weight management or type 2 diabetes.

You may qualify for a GLP-1 medication if you meet one of the following:

For Weight Loss (without diabetes):

• Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher (classified as obesity)

• BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition, such as:

  • High blood pressure

  • High cholesterol

  • Sleep apnea

  • Insulin resistance or prediabetes

For Type 2 Diabetes Management:

• Diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, especially if weight loss is a treatment goal

• Inadequate blood sugar control with lifestyle changes or other medications