The Complete Guide to GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications
Everything you need to know about Wegovy®, Oral Wegovy®, Zepbound® Vials, Zepbound® KwikPen, and how GLP-1 medications are changing weight loss — including how they work, what results to expect, and what they cost through Imbue Health.
What are GLP-1s?
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a natural hormone in your body. This hormone is responsible for regulating appetite, insulin production, and digestion speed.
Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists were found to produce significant weight loss in patients. This discovery led to extensive clinical trials and subsequent FDA approval specifically for chronic weight management, revolutionizing the treatment of obesity.
How They Work
- Slow Digestion: Food stays in your stomach longer, making you feel full faster.
- Signal Satiety: They communicate directly with your brain to reduce hunger signals.
- Regulate Blood Sugar: They help your body process sugar more effectively.
- Reduce Food Noise: Many patients report a dramatic reduction in constant thoughts about food and cravings — often described as the most life-changing effect.
Approved Options
- Wegovy® (Semaglutide): Weekly injection approved for chronic weight management.
- Zepbound® (Tirzepatide): Dual GLP-1/GIP action for maximum results.
- Oral Wegovy®: The first FDA-approved GLP-1 pill for weight loss. Same active ingredient as injectable Wegovy® (semaglutide). Starting at $149/month through NovoCare.
How the Medications Compare
Imbue Health prescribes three FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. Here's how they differ.
What the Clinical Trials Show
GLP-1 medications are among the most studied weight loss treatments in history. Here are the key findings.
Wegovy®
- 15% average body weight loss over 68 weeks
- 85% of patients maintained weight loss at 2 years
- 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events (SELECT trial)
Zepbound®
- 22% average body weight loss over 72 weeks
- 68% of patients lost 20% or more of their body weight
- Highest average weight loss of any FDA-approved medication
Oral Wegovy®
- Comparable weight loss results to injectable semaglutide
- First oral GLP-1 approved for chronic weight management
- Daily tablet eliminates the need for injections
Individual results vary. Clinical trial participants also followed reduced-calorie diets and increased physical activity.
Your First 12 Weeks and Beyond
Here's what most patients experience after starting GLP-1 medication.
Weeks 1–2: Adjusting
- • You start at the lowest dose to minimize side effects
- • Mild nausea, reduced appetite, and changes in digestion are common
- • Most patients notice a significant reduction in hunger and food cravings within the first week
Weeks 3–4: Early Results
- • Many patients lose 3–5 pounds in the first month
- • Side effects typically begin to ease as your body adjusts
- • Your provider monitors your response and adjusts if needed
Weeks 5–12: Titration
- • Your dose gradually increases following the titration schedule
- • Weight loss accelerates as you move to higher doses
- • Patients commonly report 10–15 pounds lost by week 12
Months 4–12: Sustained Progress
- • Most significant weight loss occurs between months 3 and 12
- • Your provider continues to monitor progress, adjust dosing, and manage any side effects
- • Average patients reach 15–22% total body weight loss by month 12–18
Beyond 12 Months: Maintenance
- • Clinical data shows patients who continue treatment maintain their weight loss
- • Stopping medication may lead to weight regain — your provider will help plan a long-term strategy
- • Ongoing monitoring and dose adjustments are included in your Imbue Health membership
Side Effects and Safety
Like any medication, GLP-1s can have side effects. The most common are gastrointestinal, including nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. These are typically mild and subside as your body adjusts to the medication.
Oral Wegovy® may also cause oral-specific side effects including difficulty swallowing, gastritis, and abdominal distension.
Read our full Important Safety Information for a complete list of side effects, contraindications, and warnings.
Important Safety Note
GLP-1 medications are not suitable for everyone. Patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use these medications. Always consult with a licensed provider.
More Than Weight Loss
Emerging research shows GLP-1 medications may benefit far more than the number on the scale.
Cardiovascular Health
The SELECT trial showed semaglutide (the active ingredient in Wegovy®) reduced major cardiovascular events by 20% in adults with obesity and established heart disease.
Blood Sugar Regulation
GLP-1 medications improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, even in patients without diabetes. Many patients see improvements in A1C and fasting glucose levels.
Sleep Apnea
Clinical studies have shown significant improvement in obstructive sleep apnea severity with GLP-1 treatment, with some patients reducing or eliminating CPAP use.
Liver Health
Early research suggests GLP-1 medications may reduce liver fat and inflammation in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH).
These benefits are based on clinical research and emerging data. Your Imbue Health provider can discuss how GLP-1 treatment may benefit your specific health profile.
How It Works with Imbue Health
Imbue Health prescribes exclusively FDA-approved, brand-name GLP-1 medications — never compounded alternatives.
Assessment
Complete a 5-minute health assessment about your medical history and goals.
Evaluation
Get evaluated by a licensed physician who determines the right medication for you.
Delivery
Medication ships directly from the manufacturer's pharmacy to your door.
Ongoing Care
Unlimited provider access, dose adjustments, and monitoring for $29/month.
Total monthly cost: $29/month membership + medication from $149/month.
No contracts. No insurance required. Cancel anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to take GLP-1 medication?
GLP-1 medications are typically prescribed as long-term treatment. Clinical data shows that patients who stop medication often regain weight. Your Imbue Health provider will work with you on a sustainable long-term plan.
Are GLP-1 medications safe long-term?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide have been studied in trials lasting up to 4 years. Long-term safety data continues to be collected, and both medications are FDA-approved for chronic (ongoing) weight management.
Will I regain weight if I stop?
Research shows that some weight regain is common after stopping GLP-1 medication, which is why most clinical guidelines recommend ongoing treatment. Your provider will help develop a maintenance strategy that works for you.
Do I need to diet and exercise while taking GLP-1s?
GLP-1 medications work best alongside a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity. However, most patients find that the appetite suppression makes healthy eating significantly easier than it was before treatment.
What's the difference between Ozempic® and Wegovy®?
Both contain semaglutide, but Ozempic® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes while Wegovy® is approved for chronic weight management. They are dosed differently. Imbue Health prescribes Wegovy® and Oral Wegovy® — the weight-loss-indicated versions.
Find out if GLP-1 medication is right for you
Our clinical quiz will determine if you are a candidate for GLP-1 therapy.
Start Your Free Assessment