Week 1: The Loading Dose
Your journey begins with a low loading dose. This introduces the medicine to your system and helps minimize any initial gastrointestinal side effects. Even now, you may find yourself eating less. “Appetite goes down in one or two weeks,” says Velayati, although it is often too early to see significant movement on the scale.
Weeks 2–4: Effects Assessment
You may begin to experience early side effects, such as mild nausea or changes in bowel habits. This is a critical time for prioritizing protein and hydration, aiming for about 16 ounces of fluid multiple times a day. Velayati suggests drinking protein shakes on days you feel nauseated.
Month 1: The First Check-In
You will typically have a follow-up appointment after the first four weeks to evaluate your progress and tolerance. If you feel well, your doctor may increase the dose, which may boost the drug’s effectiveness. Velayati says these close follow-ups help ensure your body is adapting to the medication properly.
Months 2–3: Progress Tracking
By this stage, most people will see a noticeable reduction in body weight. Velayati suggests the three-month mark is the ideal time to reexamine your treatment plan, especially if you’ve hit a plateau or the medication hasn’t helped you lose 5 percent of your weight.
Months 6+: Long-Term Management
While side effects usually subside after six months, some fatigue may persist. On average, people on a GLP-1 or dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist see a 10 to 15 percent weight reduction over a year, but strength training and nutrition are vital to maintaining those results, says Velayati. You may need to take a GLP-1 or dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist over the long term to keep the weight off permanently, because stopping the medication may cause the weight to return.
