Are They Right for You?
By Tina Opelt (APNP, FNP-BC)
With nearly half of American adults classified as obese, many are exploring new treatment options. Obesity contributes to serious health problems, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, sleep apnea, arthritis, fatty liver disease, and certain types of cancer.
Weight loss injections containing GLP-1 medications have gained significant attention, but understanding what they are and their implications is crucial before considering them.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a naturally occurring hormone in your intestines that regulates blood sugar.
- Regulate blood sugar by releasing insulin and storing glucose
- Slow stomach emptying, creating feelings of fullness
- Signal the brain to reduce appetite
Simply put, less hunger/cravings, “full feeling” after eating very small amounts of food. The result is typically 5-15% weight loss from the starting weight.
These Aren’t New Drugs
The first GLP-1 medication, Byetta, was approved for diabetes in 2005, followed by Victoza, Trulicity, Ozempic and Mounjaro. Saxenda became available specifically for weight loss as a daily injection in 2014, followed by weekly injections Wegovy (2021) and Zepbound (2023).
Important Considerations
These medications are expensive, often not covered by insurance, and require long-term commitment rather than short-term use. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, and fatigue. More serious risks can include pancreatitis, kidney problems, gallbladder issues, and with Wegovy, rare thyroid tumors.
The Bottom Line
Only a healthcare provider can determine if these medications are safe and appropriate for your individual situation. Regardless of medication use, long-term weight management requires lifestyle changes.
- Limit portion sizes of high-fat, high-calorie foods, fast food
- Limit all highly processed foods — eating the food in its most natural state is always best
- Take advantage of farmers’ markets or start a small garden of your own
- Walk or bike for physical activity, with a goal of moving 30 minutes per day
Creating new, healthy habits takes time and practice but it’s worth the effort.
Tina Opelt (APNP, FNP-BC)
Tina is a family nurse practitioner for NorthLakes Community Clinic in Augusta, Wisconsin, where everyone is served, regardless of their ability to pay, ensuring that all residents of northern Wisconsin have access to quality healthcare. For more information, visit nlccwi.org.
