If you’re hearing more about GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide, you’re not alone. These are powerful tools that doctors use to help people lose weight, manage type 2 diabetes, and help treat several other medical conditions. But there’s also a lot of confusion. Let’s walk through what these medications are, how they work, and who they’re for in simple, easy-to-understand language.
What Are GLP-1 and GIP Medications?
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1. GIP stands for Glucose-Dependent Insulin Polypeptide. Both GLP-1 and GIP are natural hormones your body makes when you eat. They help regulate your blood sugar, make you feel full, and slow down how fast food leaves your stomach. GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications mimic these hormones, which is why they help with weight loss and blood sugar control.
Think of them like a helper for your body that tells your brain: “Hey, I’m full!”
These medications are often given as weekly injections and go by names like semaglutide (Wegovy or Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound or Mounjaro). At compounding pharmacies, they may be available in custom doses and mixed with amino acids or vitamins without going through insurance.
Who Are These Medications For?
These medications are usually prescribed for:
- People with type 2 diabetes
- Adults with a BMI over 30 (this means you fall into the "obese" category)
- Adults with a BMI over 27 and at least one health issue like:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Prediabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Osteoarthritis
They may also be helpful for:
- Women going through perimenopause or menopause
- People with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Women trying to get pregnant (as part of a supervised weight-loss and hormone-balancing plan)
- Older people with osteoarthritis in their knees, hips or spine (due to weight loss)
Important: These medications are not for everyone. If you have a rare type of thyroid cancer called Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma or a condition called MEN2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2), you should not take GLP-1/GIP medications. Even if these run in your family, talk with your doctor before starting.
How Do GLP-1 Medications Help With Weight Loss?
GLP-1s work in a few key ways:
- They make you feel full sooner
- They reduce your hunger throughout the day
- They slow down digestion
- They help control your blood sugar (important if you have insulin resistance or diabetes)
For many people, this leads to eating smaller portions, fewer cravings, and steady, healthy weight loss.
Why Use a Compounding Pharmacy?
Some people get these medications through a compounding pharmacy. This means a special pharmacy mixes your medication just for you, often at a more affordable price than going through insurance. Compounded GLP-1/GIPs can be:
- Easier to access if you don’t meet insurance requirements
- Customized in dose and formulation
- A good option for ongoing maintenance after initial weight loss
- Often conveniently mailed to you each month
Note: Always use a reputable, licensed compounding pharmacy. Your provider should help you choose a safe option.
Are These Medications Safe?
Generally, yes. But like all medications, there are risks.
Side effects can include:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Hair loss
- Increased risk of malnutrition
These usually get better over time as your body adjusts. Starting with a low dose helps. Some people are on these medications for life to help maintain their weight—but at much lower doses than during the active weight loss phase.
Caution for Young Adults:
GLP-1s are not typically recommended for people under 30 unless there is a strong medical reason. These medications can affect growth, metabolism, and long-term hormone balance in younger adults, so use extreme caution and always under medical supervision.
Long-Term Use and Maintenance
Weight loss doesn’t stop once you hit your goal. These medications often continue indefinitely but in smaller doses to help keep the weight off.
Why? Because when we lose weight, our hunger hormones can change—and it becomes easier to regain the weight. GLP-1s help your body fight that rebound.
Remember:
- Maintenance is not failure
- Lower doses can still be effective
- This is part of long-term care, not a quick fix
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Talk to your provider if:
- You have type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- You have a BMI over 27 and a health issue like sleep apnea or high blood pressure
- You’re struggling with weight and menopause or PCOS
- You’re thinking about pregnancy and want to improve your health first
GLP-1/GIP medications can be a powerful tool—but they’re not for everyone. At Northwest Family Clinics, we take the time to understand your full health picture and help you decide what’s right for your body.
Questions about semaglutide, tirzepatide, or compounded medications? Schedule a visit. We’re here to help you make sense of your options and move forward with confidence.