GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar. When combined with healthy nutrition, movement, and support, GLP-1 treatments can help many people achieve sustainable weight loss and improve metabolic health.

How they work: GLP-1 medications act on your stomach (slowing emptying so you feel full longer), your brain (reducing cravings and making it easier to eat smaller portions), and your pancreas and liver (improving blood sugar control). Most are given as once-weekly injections.

Potential benefits: Weight loss through reduced appetite and better portion control. Metabolic improvements including better A1c, cholesterol, and blood pressure for many patients. Behavioral momentum - making it easier to stick to nutrition and movement routines.

Most people notice reduced appetite and earlier fullness within the first couple of weeks. Early side effects like nausea, fullness and constipation are common, especially around dose changes, and usually ease as your body adapts.

For how weight loss typically progresses over months, see "What results should I expect and when?".

Tirzepatide works on two hormone pathways instead of one: GIP and GLP-1. Both play a role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Because it targets two pathways, tirzepatide may produce stronger results than similar medications for some patients, though it can come with different side effects and not everyone needs the extra effect. It is the same active medication found in the brand-name products Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Semaglutide is a well-established GLP-1 medication with strong results for both weight loss and blood sugar control. It acts on the single GLP-1 pathway. It is the same active medication found in the brand-name products Ozempic and Wegovy.

Your provider reviews your medical history and goals to help decide which is the right fit for you, and you can ask to revisit that choice at any point.