GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss: What You Should Know

Written by Gavin Sigle, MD, MBA

Reviewed by Victor Cruz, MD

Published: April 7, 2025 – Updated: May 8, 2025

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In recent years, GLP-1 medications have gained national attention for their significant impact on weight loss. Originally created for diabetes management, these medications are now widely used as part of comprehensive weight loss programs—and the science backs them up.

Clinical trials and patient outcomes consistently show that GLP-1 therapies can support meaningful, sustainable weight loss.

Here’s everything you need to know about how GLP-1 medications work, their effectiveness, and what to expect.

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What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, a class of medications first developed to help people with type 2 diabetes regulate blood sugar. One of their earliest observed side effects—weight loss—quickly became a central focus of treatment, especially for individuals with obesity or excess weight.

These prescription-only medications are typically taken via self-injection once a day or once a week. Some GLP-1s are also available in oral tablet form.

Providers generally prescribe GLP-1s as part of a structured plan that includes healthy eating, regular movement, and lifestyle coaching to help patients reach and maintain their goals.

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How Do GLP-1s Work?

GLP-1 medications replicate the action of a hormone your gut naturally releases when you eat. This hormone signals your pancreas to release insulin, which helps lower blood sugar. These drugs “activate” the same receptor sites—hence the name “GLP-1 receptor agonists.”

When taken, they:

• Increase insulin production in response to glucose

• Lower glucagon secretion (which reduces sugar release from the liver)

• Slow down gastric emptying (making you feel fuller for longer)

• Act on areas in the brain that regulate hunger and cravings

Together, these actions lead to:

• Increased satiety

• Lower appetite

• Fewer food cravings and less “food noise”

Beyond weight loss and better blood sugar control, GLP-1s have additional health benefits, including:

• Lowering blood pressure

• Improving cholesterol levels

• Reducing fatty liver disease

Some GLP-1s have even been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, like heart attack and stroke, in patients with existing heart disease and diabetes.

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Common GLP-1 Medications

Several GLP-1 medications are now FDA-approved, either for type 2 diabetes or for weight management. Below are some of the most recognized:

Brand Name	Active Ingredient	Format	Approved For
Saxenda®	Liraglutide	Daily injection	Weight Loss
Wegovy®	Semaglutide	Weekly injection	Weight Loss
Zepbound®	Tirzepatide	Weekly injection	Weight Loss
Victoza®	Liraglutide	Daily injection	Type 2 diabetes
Trulicity®	Dulaglutide	Weekly injection	Type 2 diabetes
Ozempic®	Semaglutide	Weekly injection	Type 2 diabetes
Byetta®	Exenatide	Daily injection	Type 2 diabetes
Mounjaro®	Tirzepatide	Weekly injection	Type 2 diabetes
Rybelsus®	Semaglutide	Oral tablet (daily)	Type 2 diabetes

Many GLP-1s originally approved for diabetes are prescribed “off-label” for weight loss by licensed providers.

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Compounded GLP-1s

Compounded GLP-1 medications are custom-made formulations that contain the same active ingredients as their commercial counterparts. These versions are not individually reviewed by the FDA but are produced in registered compounding pharmacies under state pharmacy regulations.

They’re a cost-effective option, especially when brand-name GLP-1s are in short supply or offered because of medical necessity due to patient's needs. At EONMeds, we only work with U.S.-based, State registered pharmacies to ensure you receive high-quality, safely compounded GLP-1 medication.

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How Effective Are GLP-1s for Weight Loss?

Studies show that GLP-1s lead to more significant weight loss than placebo or even many other diabetes treatments.

A widely cited clinical trial from 2021 showed participants without diabetes lost an average of nearly 34 pounds over 68 weeks on weekly semaglutide 2.4mg.

A 2024 follow-up study showed that the weight loss was maintained over four years and linked to a 20% reduction in cardiovascular events in people with obesity and heart disease.

Results vary, especially between patients with and without diabetes:

• In people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1s resulted in an average weight loss of 4–6.2%

• In people without diabetes, weight loss averaged 6.1–17.4%

Tirzepatide may outperform semaglutide in some cases, and semaglutide is often more effective than liraglutide.

No two patients are alike. That’s why at EONMeds, our providers personalize your plan to ensure the best possible results.

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Who Is Eligible for GLP-1s?

GLP-1 medications may be prescribed for adults with:

• A BMI of 30 or higher, or

• A BMI of 27 or higher plus one or more weight-related health conditions, such as:

  
  

  • High blood pressure

  • Type 2 diabetes

  • Sleep apnea

  • High cholesterol

  • Heart disease

  
  

Not sure if you qualify? Complete a short medical intake form at EONMeds to see if a provider determines this treatment is right for you.

See If you qualify today

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Potential Side Effects of GLP-1s

Most side effects are mild and manageable. The most common are digestive:

• Nausea

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

• Bloating or stomach pain

• Indigestion

Other possible side effects include:

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Injection site irritation

• Nasal congestion

These effects often lessen over time or after adjusting your dose. Rare risks may include:

• Pancreatitis

• Gallbladder issues

• Thyroid tumors (specifically medullary thyroid carcinoma)

Do not use GLP-1s if you or a close family member has a history of:

• Medullary thyroid cancer

• Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)

Always speak with your provider if you have questions about safety or experience any new symptoms.

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GLP-1 Alternatives

If GLP-1 medications aren’t suitable or effective for you, there are other prescription options your provider may recommend:

• Metformin – An oral medication commonly used for blood sugar control, also prescribed off-label to reduce appetite and support weight loss.

• Topiramate – Originally designed for seizures, it helps suppress appetite and may support fat loss.

• Naltrexone-Bupropion (Contrave®) – A combination therapy that targets both cravings and the brain’s reward system to help reduce emotional eating.

EONMeds also offers personalized oral weight loss kits that may include a combination of these alternatives, based on your unique health profile.

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Final Thoughts: Should You Try GLP-1s for Weight Loss?

GLP-1s are not a quick fix—but when combined with ongoing lifestyle changes and medical support, they can be a powerful part of a successful weight loss journey.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• These medications are tools — not magic. Success comes from pairing treatment with better eating habits, physical activity, and long-term consistency.

• Side effects are usually manageable, but always communicate with your provider if you’re concerned.

• There are options beyond GLP-1s if you need a different approach.

Ready to take control of your weight?

Take our free online assessment to find out if you qualify for GLP-1 treatment through EONMeds.

See If you qualify today

This content is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your provider to determine if GLP-1 or any treatment is right for you.