A healthcare expert has provided insights into the effects of weight-loss injections on the body over a few weeks.
Globally, millions, including many celebrities in Hollywood, opt for GLP-1 medications to manage their weight and combat obesity.
In the United States, about 12 percent of adults—equivalent to one in eight people—use medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro. These drugs aid weight loss by curbing appetite and managing blood sugar levels.
While the ultimate effectiveness of these drugs is still under debate, a physician has outlined what a person might experience in a typical four-week period while on these medications.
During the initial week of taking Mounjaro, patients generally start with a low dose of 2.5mg. Dr. Crystal Wyllie from ZAVA notes that this phase serves as an ‘adjustment period’ for the body to adapt to the medication.
In this period, common side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, or constipation may occur.
Conversely, those beginning Wegovy treatment are administered an initial dose of 0.25mg. According to Dr. Wyllie, this might lead to a slight decrease in appetite, resulting in feeling fuller for longer, prompting a reduction in food intake.
By the second week, Dr. Wyllie indicates that patients on Mounjaro typically notice more pronounced changes in appetite.
“You may find yourself eating less and staying fuller for longer. It is important during this stage to stick to your diet and exercise plan,” she mentioned.
For Wegovy users, the increase in dosage should further suppress appetite, potentially leading to minor changes on the scale.
In both cases, week three can be challenging due to the persistence of side effects. The recommendation is to eat small, plain meals and increase water consumption if nausea is severe.
“Be sure to see a doctor for any vomiting and severe abdominal pain to rule out serious causes,” she advised.
By the fourth week, Dr. Wyllie suggests that patients may notice a change in their physique or on the scale.
A ZAVA study reports that patients typically lose an average of four percent of their initial body weight on Mounjaro during the first month, and around two percent on Wegovy.
Over a longer period and with increased dosages, Mounjaro patients lose an average of 22.5 percent of their initial weight over 72 weeks, while Wegovy users see a reduction of about 17 percent.
The amount of weight lost can vary based on factors such as age, which can slow metabolism and alter hormones, as well as dietary and exercise habits.
Dr. Wyllie emphasized that both medications are most effective when accompanied by a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle. Sustainable changes are vital to maintain weight loss after stopping the medication.
She also highlighted the importance of adhering to the dosage schedule, which means taking the injections at the same time every day.
“Losing weight with weight loss injections is not an overnight process, and it can take time to see results,” she concluded. “While some see significant weight loss changes within their first month, for some, the desired result takes longer. It is crucial to make healthy lifestyle changes to support your weight loss process.”