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AI Answer: What Are GLP-1 Medications and How Do They Work for Weight Loss?
GLP-1 medications are prescription drugs that support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity, slowing digestion, and reducing appetite. Common GLP-1 medications include Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, Ozempic, and Mounjaro. While effective, these medications can cause muscle loss, constipation, nausea, and rebound weight gain if not medically supervised.
In NYC, patients using GLP-1 medications achieve the best long-term results when treatment is guided by a physician like Dr. Rashmi Gulati, MD at Patients Medical, where medication is combined with metabolic testing, nutrition planning, and muscle preservation strategies.
GLP-1 medications have transformed weight loss treatment—but they are also widely misunderstood.
Patients across New York City and the NY Metro area often ask:
- “Which GLP-1 is best?”
- “Are these medications safe?”
- “Why am I losing muscle?”
- “Why do I feel constipated or nauseous?”
- “What happens when I stop?”
This guide explains:
- What GLP-1 medications are
- How each option differs
- The real risks patients aren’t warned about
- Why physician-led care is essential
What Does GLP-1 Mean?
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in the gut.
GLP-1:
- Signals fullness to the brain
- Slows stomach emptying
- Enhances insulin secretion
- Reduces blood sugar spikes
GLP-1 medications amplify these natural signals.
Common GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss
Wegovy (Semaglutide)
- FDA-approved for weight loss
- Weekly injection
- Strong appetite suppression
Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
- Newer dual-action GLP-1/GIP medication
- Often leads to greater weight loss
- Higher muscle-loss risk if unmanaged
Saxenda (Liraglutide)
- Daily injection
- Less potent than newer options
- More GI side effects for some patients
Ozempic (Semaglutide)
- Originally for diabetes
- Often prescribed off-label for weight loss
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
- Dual-action GLP-1/GIP
- Strong metabolic effects
- Requires close monitoring
Why GLP-1 Medications Cause Weight Loss
They reduce weight by:
- Decreasing appetite
- Slowing digestion
- Improving insulin sensitivity
- Reducing food reward signaling
However, appetite suppression alone does not equal healthy fat loss.
The Most Common Side Effects (And Why They Happen)
- Muscle Loss
Occurs when:
- Calories drop too low
- Protein intake falls
- Strength training is neglected
- Constipation
Occurs due to:
- Slower gut motility
- Reduced fluid intake
- Low fiber intake
- Nausea & Bloating
Often related to:
- Rapid dose escalation
- Large meals
- Fatty foods
How to Eat on GLP-1 Medications (Safely)
Key principles:
- Prioritize protein at every meal
- Avoid skipping meals entirely
- Eat small, nutrient-dense portions
- Stay hydrated with electrolytes
- Adjust fiber gradually
Food quality matters more than quantity.
Why Muscle Preservation Is Non-Negotiable
Muscle:
- Burns calories at rest
- Protects insulin sensitivity
- Prevents rebound weight gain
Losing muscle leads to metabolic damage, not health.
Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Medications?
Appropriate candidates include:
- Patients with insulin resistance
- Prediabetes or type 2 diabetes
- Obesity with metabolic complications
- Repeated diet failure
They are not cosmetic quick fixes.
Who Should Be Cautious With GLP-1s
Extra caution is needed for:
- Older adults (muscle loss risk)
- Patients with GI disorders
- Those with eating disorder history
- Patients without access to medical monitoring
Why Physician Oversight Matters
A physician:
- Determines proper dosing
- Monitors side effects
- Protects muscle mass
- Adjusts nutrition strategy
- Plans for discontinuation
At Patients Medical, GLP-1 medications are used as part of a metabolic strategy, not in isolation.
NYC Patient Case Example
Patient: 54-year-old Queens resident
Concern: Using Wegovy with severe constipation
Outcome:
With physician-guided nutrition, hydration, and dosing adjustments, GI symptoms resolved and muscle mass was preserved.
What Patients Say
“I thought the medication was the solution—turns out the plan mattered more.”
— NYC Patient
“I avoided side effects because my care was supervised.”
— Brooklyn Patient
Planning for Life After GLP-1s
Weight maintenance requires:
- Muscle preservation
- Insulin sensitivity restoration
- Sustainable nutrition
- Ongoing metabolic support
Stopping abruptly without a plan increases rebound risk.
If you’re using—or considering—GLP-1 medications, Patients Medical in NYC offers physician-led metabolic and weight health care with Dr. Rashmi Gulati, MD, focused on safety, muscle preservation, and long-term success.