A simple guide to understanding GLP-1 weight loss treatments, how they work, and whether they might be right for you.
Contents
- Understanding weight loss and your body
- What are GLP-1 weight loss treatments?
- How does it feel to be on GLP-1s
- How effective is it?
- What about side effects?
- Is treatment suitable for me?
- Mounjaro or Wegovy?
- What happens if I stop treatment?
- What next?
Understanding weight loss and your body
Weight loss is often described as a simple balance between calories in and calories out. While this is technically true, it doesn’t reflect how complex the process actually is.
Your body regulates weight using hormones that control hunger, fullness, and energy use. When you try to lose weight through dieting alone, your body can respond by increasing hunger and making you feel less satisfied after eating.
This is where medical treatments can play a role. Rather than relying on willpower alone, they work with these biological systems to make weight loss feel more manageable.
What are GLP-1 weight loss treatments?
GLP-1 medications are based on a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which is naturally released from the gut after you eat.
This hormone plays an important role in regulating appetite and blood sugar.
GLP-1 weight loss treatments mimic this hormone, but in a longer-acting form.
As a result, they:
- Reduce hunger signals sent to the brain
- Increase feelings of fullness after eating
- Slow digestion, helping you stay satisfied for longer
Some treatments, such as Mounjaro, also act on an additional hormone (GIP).
What does it feel like to be on GLP-1s
Many people describe a noticeable reduction in appetite.
This doesn’t mean you stop enjoying food, but it can feel easier to make choices without the same level of effort.
How effective is it?
GLP-1 treatments have been studied in large clinical trials.
Wegovy shows around 13–15% weight loss over 68 weeks.
Mounjaro shows around 20% weight loss over 72 weeks.
What about side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, bloating, or digestive changes.
These usually settle as your body adjusts.
Is treatment suitable for me?
Treatment is usually considered if:
- Your BMI is 30 or above
- Or 27+ with a weight-related condition
You might consider treatment if you’ve struggled with diet and exercise alone.
Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Mounjaro works on two hormones and may lead to greater weight loss.
Wegovy works on GLP-1 alone and is a well-established option.
What happens if I stop treatment?
Many people develop healthier eating habits during treatment that can continue afterwards.
What next?
If you feel ready, the next step is to arrange a consultation and explore your options.
