Navigating the world of new medications can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting your journey with a GLP-1. Feeling confident and prepared is the key to success. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive GLP1 beginner guide, covering everything from how these medications work to managing potential side effects and getting the most out of your treatment. Think of this as your go-to resource, your supportive friend in your back pocket, ready to answer all your questions so you can focus on what matters: feeling your best.

Step 1 – Choosing a GLP-1 Medication

Before talking to your healthcare provider, you’ll want to have a good understanding of the 2 GLP-1 Medications on the market: tirzepatide and semaglutide. While both are proven to aid with weight loss tirzepatide (sold under the names Zepbound/Mounjaro), is more effective for weight loss than semaglutide (sold under the names Wegovy/Ozempic). In comparable 72 week studies users on tirzepatide lost 20.2% of their body weight, compared to 13.7% for semaglutide. For a deep dive of the differences and how GLP-1s work you can read: Zepbound vs Wegovy for Weight Loss- What’s the Difference?

It’s also important to review your health insurance to see if it will cover either of the GLP-1 medications and under what conditions.

Got all that! Great, now you’re well educated to meet with your healthcare provider.

Step 2 – Getting a Prescription

Option 1 – Make an appointment with your healthcare provider. Before your appointment to discuss GLP-1 medications, it’s helpful to come prepared. Take time to list all of your current medications and supplements, review your full medical and family history, and gather any recent health data you have, such as lab results. You should also write down your specific health goals and any questions you have about potential side effects or the treatment process, so you can have a clear and confident conversation with your doctor.

Option 2 – You can choose to utilize a telehealth provider. I have personally used and recommend Fridays. Fridays is a telehealth provider that specializes in a doctor-guided GLP-1 weight loss program.

Use code: “QUEEN”.

Step 3 – Ordering GLP-1 Medication: Manufactured vs Compounding

What is compounded GLP-1? Compounded GLP-1 medications are custom-made versions of the active ingredients in drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. Unlike the brand-name medications, these are not produced by the original pharmaceutical companies but are instead created by licensed compounding pharmacies. Compounds are not FDA-approved: this is a crucial distinction. FDA-approved drugs undergo rigorous testing for safety, quality, and effectiveness in clinical trials. Compounded versions do not go through this process. The FDA does not review them, so there’s no official verification of their safety or efficacy. Compounding pharmacies must adhere to a set of safety regulations and standards to ensure the quality and safety of the medications they produce. While there isn’t a single “certification” that all compounding pharmacies must have, they are required to comply with standards set by organizations like the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP). Compliance is often overseen by state boards of pharmacy.

While compounding GLP-1 is legal as of writing this article, there are numerous challenges being made to it by big pharma and its long-term status is unclear. Here is a good article summarizing the issues: Out of Shortage, Into Controversy: The Fight Over GLP-1 Compounding

Compounded drugs are often cheaper than their brand-name counterparts and are not covered by insurance. For many people, they have been a way to access the medication when they couldn’t afford the approved versions or couldn’t get insurance coverage.

GLP-1 medication will come with 2 injection options:

Injectable Pens

• Ease of Use & Convenience: Pens are pre-filled devices, often with a pre-attached needle, making them very user-friendly. Many are single-use, while others are multi-dose but still designed for simple, push-button injection. This “ready-to-go” format reduces the number of steps and supplies needed for each dose.
• Dosing Accuracy: Pens minimize the risk of dosing errors. For single-use pens, the dose is preset. For multi-dose pens, you simply dial in the correct dose, which is often a more straightforward process than drawing a precise amount from a vial. This built-in precision is a major safety advantage.
• Portability: Their all-in-one design makes pens easy to travel with, as you don’t need to carry separate vials, syringes, and needles.

Vials and Syringes

• Increased Risk of Error: Using a vial and syringe requires the user to manually draw the medication, which increases the risk of incorrect dosing.
• Preparation & Handling: This method requires more preparation before each injection. You must have separate vials, syringes, and needles, and properly handle them to maintain sterility. This can be more complex, especially for new users.

Typically, GLP-1 compounds will come in vials. Manufactured GLP-1s often come with the choice of injectable pens or vials.

Countess Tip: Deciding which version of a GLP-1 drug to take is a personal choice to be made in consultation with your healthcare provider.

Step 4 – Taking GLP-1 Medication

Ok, the big day is here! Time for your first shot. If you’re feeling nervous about injecting yourself, that is perfectly normal! I certainly was. I can assure you that with experience it will become a very normal part of your life.

How to Inject GLP-1 Medication

Whether you’re using a convenient pre-filled pen or a vial with a syringe, the most critical step is to always follow the specific instructions provided with your medication. Every product is slightly different, and adhering to the manufacturer’s guide ensures safety and effectiveness.

• Using an Injectable Pen: Pens are designed for simplicity. You will cleanse a spot on your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Next you will remove the cap from your pen and hold it flat against your skin. A simple press of a button will deliver the medication, and a clicking sound often signals that the dose is complete. Pens minimize the chance of dosing errors, but it is vital to read the instructions to ensure you’re using the correct dose and technique.
• Using a Vial and Syringe: This method requires careful preparation. You’ll need to gather a sterile syringe, a sterile needle, and your vial of medication. Following the instructions, you will draw a precise amount of medication from the vial into the syringe. This step is particularly important to get right, as an incorrect dose could be ineffective or harmful. Once the medication is drawn, you will cleanse the injection site and inject the medication into the skin. This method demands extra caution and precision, so it is essential to consult the provided instructions to avoid errors and ensure a sterile injection.

Here’s my guide to where to inject your body: Best Zepbound Injection Sites.

Here’s my free GLP-1 Injection and Side Effects Tracking Printable.

Disposing of “Sharps”

After you use your GLP-1 pen, it’s so important to handle it properly, not just for your own safety but for everyone else’s, too. Think of it as the final, crucial step in your self-care routine.

First, your used needles and pens (especially the parts with the needle) are considered “sharps.” They can poke and injure people, so they can never go into your regular trash or recycling bin. The best and safest thing to do is to get an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container. You can purchase sharps containers from Amazon.com.

Countess Tip: Have a sharps disposal container on hand before your first injection.

Once your container is about three-quarters full, it’s time to get rid of it the right way. This part is a bit different depending on where you live, so you’ll want to check with your local health department or pharmacy. They can tell you about approved drop-off sites, like hospitals, pharmacies, or special collection events. Some communities even have mail-back programs.

Taking these steps might feel like a little extra effort, but it’s a small way to make a big difference in keeping our community safe. You’ve got this!

Step 5 – Side Effects – Being Prepared

Navigating the initial phase of any new medication can come with a few bumps, and GLP-1s are no different. It’s totally normal to experience some common side effects as your body adjusts, and thankfully, for most people, these tend to be mild and fade over time. The most frequent ones you might encounter are related to your tummy—things like nausea, a bit of an upset stomach, or changes in your bathroom habits, like diarrhea or constipation. You might also feel a little more tired or have a headache. The key is to be gentle with yourself, listen to your body, and communicate with your medical provider about any concerns you have.

A non-scientific poll or our Private GLP-1 Weight Loss Encouragement Group found that gastrointestinal issues were the most commonly encountered side effects of GLP-1s.

Countess Tip: Be prepared for common side effects and have a few simple solutions ready in your medicine cabinet BEFORE you experience them.

Gastrointestinal

GLP-1 medications are well-known for their common gastrointestinal side effects, which are a direct result of how they slow down digestion. The most frequently reported issues include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, with these symptoms typically being most noticeable when a person first starts the medication or has a dose increase.

Nausea

Nausea is one of the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications, but there are several strategies you can use to manage it. Here are some of the most recommended approaches:

• Adjust Your Eating Habits: Focus on eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. Eat slowly and stop as soon as you feel full to avoid overtaxing your digestive system.
• Choose Bland, Low-Fat Foods: Opt for foods that are easy to digest, that are high in protein. Avoid greasy, spicy, and high-fat foods, as they can trigger or worsen nausea.
• Stay Hydrated: Sip on water, ginger tea, or other clear fluids throughout the day. Dehydration can exacerbate nausea, but drinking too much at once can also be a problem, so aim for small sips. Be sure to have a reusable cup.

• Manage Your Schedule: Avoid lying down right after a meal and try to schedule exercise away from mealtimes. Some people find that a gentle walk after eating can help with digestion and nausea.

Constipation

The magic of GLP-1s lies in how they mimic a natural hormone in your body. This hormone works on your brain to curb your appetite and, crucially for our discussion, it slows down how quickly food moves from your stomach into your intestines. This is called delayed gastric emptying, and it’s a big part of why you feel full for longer.

But here’s the rub: this “slow down” effect often extends to the rest of your digestive tract. When food and waste sit in your colon for too long, your body absorbs more water from it. This leads to stool that is hard, dry, and, well, stuck. Add to that the fact that many of us are eating less while on these meds, which means we might not be getting as much fiber and fluid as we used to. It’s a perfect storm for feeling backed up and bloated.

Here’s even more detail if this is something you are experiencing: Navigating the Tummy Troubles: A Guide to GLP-1 Constipation.

The Magic of Magnesium: My Personal Secret Weapon

Now for a little secret I’ve discovered on my journey. One of the best proactive measures you can take is a high-quality magnesium supplement. Magnesium is a powerful mineral that helps with hundreds of bodily functions, including promoting muscle relaxation and supporting regular bowel movements by drawing water into the colon.

I’ve tried a few different ones, but the one I use and personally recommend is BiOptimizers Magnesium Breakthrough. What I love about it is that it’s not just one type of magnesium; it contains seven different forms. This means it works synergistically to support not just my digestion, but also my sleep, energy levels, and stress response. It has made a noticeable difference in keeping my digestive system running smoothly.

Use code “QUEEN”

Alternatively, you may want to consider purchasing an over-the-counter stool softener like Colace.

Diarrhea

Hydration is key. Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, so it’s vital to replace lost fluids. Be sure to have a reusable cup. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider low-sugar electrolyte beverages to replenish essential minerals. LMNT electrolytes have become my personal favorite electrolyte rich supplement. I love drinking LMNT when I work out as well as staying hydrated throughout the day. I typically have one stick and divide it out ⅓, ⅓, ⅓ = 1 stick throughout the day. (Orange is my favorite flavor but there are TONS to choose from!)

Headaches

Headaches can pop up from time to time. Keep an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or Tylenol on hand.

Fatigue

I know how frustrating it can be to feel constantly tired. It can impact your work, your relationships, and your overall quality of life. Be patient with yourself, communicate openly with your healthcare provider, and remember that this is a process. I personally struggle with fatigue.

• Talk to Your Healthcare Provider:
  • This is the most important step. Your healthcare provider can assess your individual situation, rule out other potential causes of fatigue, and adjust your medication or dosage if necessary.
  • Your healthcare provider can also discuss any potential drug interactions with other medications you may be taking.
• Consider Trying MassZymes:
  • MassZymes is a full-spectrum digestive enzyme supplement:
    1. It contains a variety of enzymes (like protease, lipase, amylase, etc.) designed to break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
    2. It is designed to aid in the digestion process.

Use code “QUEEN”

• Prioritize Sleep:
  • Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.
  • If you have obstructive sleep apnea, ensure you are using your prescribed treatment. GLP-1s can help with weight loss, which can improve sleep apnea, but it is important to treat it.
• Balanced Nutrition:
  • Focus on nutrient-rich foods, even if you’re eating smaller portions. A reduced-calorie diet should still be a balanced diet.
• Gradual Increase in Physical Activity:
  • While you might feel tired, gentle exercise can actually boost energy levels. Start slowly and gradually increase your activity level.
• Manage Stress:
  • Stress can contribute to fatigue. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Listen to Your Body:
  • Don’t push yourself too hard. If you need to rest, rest.
• Vitamin B12:
  • Discuss with your doctor if a vitamin B12 supplement may be useful.

Here’s additional details if this is something you are experiencing: Zepbound Fatigue and Fatigue Related Side Effects.

Some final thoughts on side effects:

While these mild to moderate side effects are common, if you are experiencing any severe side effects or intense pain, contact your health care provider immediately.

The good news is that these side effects often get better over time as your body adjusts to the medication, especially with gentle dose increases. It’s a temporary bump in the road, and you can absolutely get through it!

Step 6 – Foods and Nutritional Supplements

While on a GLP-1 medication, diet adjustments are key to both managing side effects and maximizing the drug’s benefits. Due to the medication’s effect of slowing down digestion and reducing appetite, it’s best to prioritize a balanced diet of smaller, more frequent meals. Focus on lean proteins, fiber-rich foods like vegetables and whole grains, and healthy fats, as these help you feel full, support muscle maintenance, and aid in digestion. Simultaneously, it is often recommended to limit or avoid foods that are high in sugar, fat, or spice, as these can exacerbate common gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and bloating. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial.

Estimate How Many Calories you should Have in a Day

Calories are the energy units your body uses to perform essential functions, from breathing to exercising. To lose weight, your body must be in a calorie deficit, meaning you consume fewer calories than you burn. GLP-1s, as part of comprehensive weight loss strategies, aim to support individuals in managing their calorie intake effectively.

I use a Calorie Calculator to figure out how many I should have per day:

FYI: There are 3 types of calorie calculations. I used the Mifflin-St Jeor formula.

To break down how to track calories, here is a full video:

Free Dietician Designed Meal Plan (my gift to you!)

Here is a GLP-1 Dietician curated GLP-1 Diet Plan PDF, I had designed for our community.

The 21-page GLP-1 Diet Plan PDF includes your weekly meal plan, shopping list and recipes!

Our Private GLP-1 Weight Loss Encouragement Group includes a space where members post their favorite recipes and offers a near endless set of ideas to inspire you.

Taking Vitamin Supplements While on GLP-1

The core reason to consider dietary supplements while on GLP-1 medications boils down to ensuring you’re meeting your body’s nutritional needs during a period of potentially reduced food intake and significant metabolic change.

1. Reduced Calorie Intake Can Lead to Nutrient Gaps: GLP-1 drugs are incredibly effective at reducing appetite. While this is key for weight loss, it means you might be eating less food overall. Even with a focus on a healthy diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables, it can be challenging to get all the essential nutrients when your calorie intake is significantly lower. Over time, this can lead to nutrient gaps or deficiencies.  
2. Gastrointestinal Side Effects Can Impact Nutrient Absorption: Some individuals experience gastrointestinal side effects with GLP-1 medications, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. These effects, even if temporary, can affect how well your body absorbs vitamins and minerals from the food you do eat. If you’re feeling nauseous, you might also naturally gravitate towards a more limited range of foods, further restricting your nutrient intake.  
3. Preserving Muscle Mass During Weight Loss: Anytime you lose weight, there’s a risk of losing some muscle mass along with body fat. Preserving muscle mass is incredibly important for maintaining a healthy metabolism, energy levels, and overall strength. Your muscle function plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and supports long-term weight management. Ensuring adequate protein intake and potentially supplementing with protein supplements can be very beneficial here.  
4. Specific Nutritional Needs for Metabolic Health: Many people starting GLP-1 medications are managing underlying health issues like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or metabolic syndrome. These conditions often have specific nutritional needs or may be associated with certain vitamin deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin D deficiency is common in people with type 2 diabetes or obesity).

I personally take GEM’s multivitamins. Each GEM Bite is real food (yes, even pumpkin seeds!) that has helped ensure I have the nutrition I need while losing weight over the last two plus years.

Use Code “Queen”

If you want to read more, here’s a detailed breakdown: Should You Be Taking Vitamin Supplements While on GLP-1?

Electrolytes

Balanced electrolytes contribute to efficient bodily functions, leading to better energy expenditure and higher energy levels. Now, how does this relate to weight loss? It’s not as direct as, say, counting calories, but it’s definitely a vital piece of the puzzle. This makes staying active easier, which is vital for weight loss efforts. Low energy can derail motivation, so maintaining proper electrolyte balance helps avoid those dips during intense physical activity or a tough workout.

My personal electrolyte drink choice is LMNT electrolytes.

Use my link for 8 Free Sticks with any LMNT electrolyte drink mix purchase.

Here’s our deep dive into link between weight loss and electrolytes: Do Electrolytes Help with Weight Loss?

Protein Bars and Drinks

When you’re on a GLP-1 medication, you’re eating a lot less, and sometimes it can feel like a real struggle to get enough nutrition. You might not have the appetite for a full meal, but your body still needs fuel to stay healthy and strong. That’s where protein drinks and bars can be a game-changer.

The main reason you’ll want to prioritize protein is to protect your muscle mass. When you lose weight—especially quickly—your body can break down both fat and muscle. Since muscle is what keeps your metabolism going and helps you stay strong, it’s so important to hold onto it. Protein tells your body, “Hey, we need to keep this muscle,” and helps ensure that the weight you’re losing is primarily fat.

Protein is also amazing at keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Even with your appetite suppressed, having a protein-rich drink or bar can help you feel more comfortable and energized throughout the day, preventing those surprise cravings or feelings of low energy. They’re a convenient, easy-to-digest way to get those essential nutrients, especially on days when a full meal just doesn’t sound appealing. It’s all about nourishing your body and making this journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.

When it comes to keep a few protein bars around, I enjoy Built Bars. I highly recommend the “puff” variety.

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If you’re looking for even more quick snack options, see our suggestions for GLP-1 Snacks: Best Snacks to Grab and Go.

Step 7 – Be Ready to Travel

As someone who loves to explore new places and experiences, I know the excitement of planning a trip. But for many of us, myself included, there’s an added layer of consideration when packing: our GLP-1 medications. If you’re on a GLP-1 like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound, you know these incredible medications have transformed lives, offering hope and health. But traveling with them can feel a little daunting at first.

Countess Tip: Be prepared to travel with your medications at all times. You never know when life will unexpectedly have you leaving the comforts of your home.

Planning is Your Best Friend

The key to a successful trip with your GLP-1 medication lies in thoughtful planning. Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring peace of mind.

1. Consider the Length of Your Trip and Medication Supply:

This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial. Before you even start thinking about outfits, calculate exactly how much medication you’ll need for the entire duration of your trip, plus a few extra doses for unexpected delays. This means looking at your injection schedule and counting out the pens or vials. It’s always better to have a little too much than to run out, especially if you’re traveling internationally where refills might be difficult or impossible to obtain.

2. Doctor’s Note & Prescription:

Always, always, always carry a doctor’s note with you. This note should state your medical condition, the name of your medication, and the dosage. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your prescription. While not always requested, these documents can be invaluable if you encounter questions from airport security or customs officials, or if you need to explain your medication in a foreign country. Keep them easily accessible, perhaps with your passport.

3. Original Packaging is Key:

Wherever possible, keep your medication in its original pharmacy-labeled packaging. This helps identify the medication and shows that it’s a legitimate prescription. For pens, this usually means keeping them in their individual boxes.

4. Keep your Medication Cool

One of the biggest concerns when traveling with GLP-1 medications is maintaining their temperature. Most GLP-1s require refrigeration, and a lapse in temperature control can compromise their efficacy. We personally have and adore our Explorer Travel Cooler from 4ALLFAMILY. However, they offer a range of products at different price points and capabilities to suit your travel needs:

Here’s our complete guide to Traveling with GLP-1 Medications: Your Essential Guide for a Worry-Free Trip

Step 8 – Building a Long-Term Support System

Navigating a journey with GLP-1 medications is a big step, and you absolutely don’t have to go it alone. It’s so easy to feel isolated, especially when you’re experiencing new changes in your body and routine and you might not know anyone else who is on the same GLP-1 journey. That’s why having a support system is so crucial—it’s like having a team of cheerleaders who truly get it.

Connecting with others who are on a similar path can make all the difference in the world. They understand the small victories and the unexpected challenges, from managing side effects to celebrating a non-scale victory. It’s a place to share your honest feelings without judgment, find new tips and tricks, and feel motivated on those days when it all feels a bit overwhelming.

If you’re looking for a warm, welcoming community, I highly recommend checking my free GLP-1 Weight Loss Encouragement Group. It’s a safe and supportive space where you can ask questions, celebrate milestones, and lean on others who are walking right alongside you. You deserve to feel supported and encouraged every step of the way, and this community is here to remind you that you’ve got this!

Disclaimers: Friends, I am not a medical professional, nor do I pretend to be one on the internet. This information is for educational purposes only, gathered from trusted sources and my personal experiences. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication or lifestyle. This post has links included that are affiliate links. Countess of Shopping & her furbabies will be compensated when you make a purchase by clicking through the links at no cost to you.