Weight loss maintenance is a journey that doesn’t have a “finish line.” If you are like me, navigating the world of GLP-1 medications like Zepbound or Mounjaro (tirzepatide), you know that the “maintenance phase” is where the real work—and the real anxiety—often begins.
Recently, a buzz-worthy news release caught everyone’s attention. Eli Lilly released data showing that their new experimental obesity pill (orforglipron) successfully helps patients maintain weight loss after they’ve finished a course of injectable medications like Wegovy or Zepbound.
It sounds like a dream, right? A daily pill instead of a weekly needle. But after sitting with this news and looking at my own progress, I’ve made a decision. Today, I’m sharing why I won’t be switching to the pill for my maintenance, while also acknowledging why it might be the perfect choice for you.
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The Reality of Weight Loss Maintenance
Maintaining a significant weight loss is a physiological battle. Our bodies often want to return to their “set point,” and for many of us, tirzepatide has been the tool that finally leveled the playing field.
The new data on Eli Lilly’s pill is exciting because it offers a “bridge.” For those who have reached their goal weight using injections, this non-peptide GLP-1 pill could potentially keep the weight off without the need for continued shots.
Why I’m Saying “No” to the Pill (For Now) 💊
While I love the innovation, my personal journey is at a very specific crossroads. Here is why I am sticking with my injectable tirzepatide:
1. I’m on the High Side of My Maintenance Weight
We all have a “buffer zone” in maintenance. Currently, I am hovering on the higher side of my goal range. When you’ve worked this hard to reclaim your health and your confidence, the fear of “regain” is real. I know how my body responds to tirzepatide—it’s a known entity that provides me with the metabolic stability I need right now. I’m simply not ready to risk my hard-earned “gains” (or rather, losses!) on a new delivery system while I’m still stabilizing.
2. My Eyes are on Retatrutide
While the world is looking at the new pill, I am keeping a very close eye on Retatrutide. Often called “the triple G,” this experimental drug targets three hunger-related hormones instead of one or two. For those of us who may need a bit more metabolic “omph” even in maintenance, Retatrutide feels like the next logical step in my personal health strategy. (Stay tuned—you can read my full deep dive on Retatrutide Breaking Plateaus: The Powerful Next-Gen Medicines I’m Watching for in 2026 – Countess of Shopping).
Why the GLP-1 Pill Might Be a Game-Changer for You
Just because the pill isn’t right for me today doesn’t mean it isn’t a miracle for someone else. We are all bio-individuals, and your lifestyle should dictate your treatment.
1. Overcoming the “Needle Phobia” 💉
Let’s be honest: when I first started my injections, I was incredibly uncomfortable. The idea of giving myself a shot every week was daunting. If you are someone who has a genuine fear of needles or finds the injection process causes significant anxiety, the move to a daily pill could remove a huge psychological barrier to staying on your medication.
2. The Ultimate Travel Companion ✈️
If you are a frequent traveler or a “Countess on the Go,” you know the struggle of traveling with pens or vials. Keeping them at the right temperature, dealing with TSA, and making sure you have enough supplies for a long trip can be a headache. A pill bottle is infinitely more convenient for a jet-set lifestyle than a refrigerated cooler bag for your pens.
Navigating Side Effects: Pills vs. Injections
Whether you choose a pill or an injection, GLP-1 medications come with a learning curve for your digestive system. Common side effects for both include:
- Nausea and “sour stomach”
- Occasional vomiting or diarrhea
- Contemplation (slower gastric emptying)
- Bloating and gas
The pill may cause slightly different GI triggers because it is processed directly through the stomach, whereas injections bypass the initial digestive tract.
How I Support My Digestion
Regardless of which format you choose, supporting your gut health is non-negotiable. I have found two “holy grail” supplements from BIOptimizers that have changed the game for me:
- BIOptimizer MassZymes: Since GLP-1s slow down your digestion, your body needs extra help breaking down proteins and nutrients. MassZymes is a powerful digestive enzyme that helps reduce that “heavy” feeling after eating and minimizes bloating.
- BIOptimizer Magnesium Breakthrough: Magnesium is essential for staying “regular” (a common struggle on these meds!) and helps with the muscle aches and sleep quality that can sometimes be affected during weight loss.
Use code: “Queen”
Your Journey, Your Choice
There is no “one size fits all” in the world of GLP-1s. Whether you stay with the tried-and-true tirzepatide injections, look toward the future with Retatrutide, or opt for the convenience of the new Eli Lilly pill, the goal is the same: sustainable health.
I want to hear from you! Are you a “Team Injection” or “Team Pill” person? Head over to my Free Encouragement Group discussion to share your thoughts.
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. This post is sponsored by BIOptimizers.
