Curious about the new weight loss medications on the market? You're not alone. Here, we'll explore how GLP-1s work, the difference between Ozempic and Zepbound (two popular GLP-1 medications), the pros and cons of using GLP-1s, whether it's worth it to try weight loss medications, and more.
How GLP-1s work
Curious about using medications like Ozempic and Zepbound to support your weight loss goals? Both of these medications are in a class of drugs called GLP-1s. Ozempic and Wegovy are the same medication (semaglutide) — Wegovy is approved for weight loss. Zepbound and Mounjaro are also the same medication (tirzepatide), Zepbound is approved for weight loss. These drugs (short for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are a type of medicine that helps people lose weight and manage blood sugar levels. They copy the effects of a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, a hormone that helps your brain signal that your stomach is full, slows down how fast your stomach empties food, and helps to control blood sugar levels.
When you take a GLP-1 medication, you usually feel full sooner, which means you eat less. These medications also help your body release the right amount of insulin after meals. GLP-1 medications were first made for people with type 2 diabetes, but now they're often used to help with weight loss. Over time, GLP-1 medications can help you lose weight by helping you feel less hungry and changing the way your body processes food after you eat.
Wegovy vs. Zepbound: What's the difference?
Wegovy and Zepbound are two of the most popular GLP-1 medications approved for weight loss. While they work in similar ways, they don't do exactly the same thing.
Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide, and it was first approved to treat type 2 diabetes. It helps lower blood sugar and also causes weight loss.
Zepbound is the brand name for tirzepatide. It's newer than Wegovy and works on two hormones instead of just one. This extra effect may help some people lose even more weight than they would on Wegovy.
In short: both drugs can help with weight loss, but Zepbound may cause faster results for some people. Your doctor can work with you to determine which option is the right choice for your body, health, goals, and budget.
Pros and cons
Like all medications, GLP-1s like Wegovy and Zepbound have both upsides and downsides.
Pros
- Weight loss: most people lose a good amount of weight on GLP-1s, especially when paired with healthy habits.
- Better blood sugar control: These medications help people with type 2 diabetes better manage their blood sugar.
- Appetite control: Most people feel fuller sooner and have fewer cravings.
- Heart health: Some studies show that GLP-1 medications may help lower the risk of heart problems in people with diabetes.
Cons
- Side effects: Common side effects of GLP-1 medications include nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. For most people, these problems go away in a few weeks.
- Cost: These drugs can be expensive if you're not using insurance to pay for them.
- Not a magic fix: You'll still need to make healthy changes with food, movement, and sleep to lose weight with these drugs.
- Availability: These drugs have recently become super-popular, which may make them hard to find.
Is it worth it?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on your personal goals and situation.
For many people who have struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise alone, Wegovy and similar drugs can be life-changing. It helps people feel full, lowers food cravings, and can lead to real, lasting results. It also improves blood sugar levels, which is a big plus for people with diabetes or prediabetes.
That being said, these medications are not a magic bullet for weight loss. You'll still need to put in the effort — Wegovy and Zepbound work best when you're also making healthy choices. If you stop taking it without keeping up your new habits, it's likely that you'll gain the weight you lost back.
If you're thinking about trying Wegovy or Zepbound (or a similar medication), talk to your doctor about your health history, your insurance coverage, and your weight loss goals. For many people, the benefits outweigh the risks.
Tips for optimal results
Taking Wegovy or Zepbound is just one part of your weight loss journey. Try these tips to help medication support your journey to health:
- Start slow with food. Since these meds slow digestion, eating too fast or too much can cause nausea. Take small bites and give your body time to feel full.
- Stay hydrated. Drink water throughout the day, as it can help with your digestion and energy levels.
- Move your body. Walking, stretching, and dancing a little each day can help to boost your process.
- Eat protein and fiber. These foods will keep you full for longer while supporting muscle and gut health.
- Keep a routine. Taking your medication on the same day of each week can help keep side effects predictable.
- Track your progress. Use a journal or app to keep track of weight, habits, and how you feel.
How to work with your doctor and prepare for GLP-1 medications
Before you start with Wegovy, Zepbound, or any other GLP-1 medication, it's essential to talk with your doctor about the steps you need to take to prepare.
When talking to your doctor, be sure to:
- Share your full health history. Be honest about any past medical problems, especially pancreas, kidney, or stomach issues.
- Talk about your goals. Let your doctor know why you're interested in GLP-1s.
- Review medications. Some drugs don't mix well with GLP-1s, so be sure to bring a list of everything you take, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- Ask questions. Don't be afraid to ask about side effects, what to expect, or how long you might take the medication.
- Plan follow-ups. Regular check-ins can help you track your progress.
How Evidation can help you meet your weight loss goals
At Evidation, our free app that rewards you for taking care of your health. If you're starting a weight loss journey with Wegovy or Zepbound, Evidation can help. When you download the app, you'll be prompted to share the health information you're already tracking (like nutrition logs or information from a wearable fitness tracker, for example). We'll use the data you choose to share to provide you with personalized, content-based insights that can drive your weight loss journey forward. Click here to learn more and download the app today.
