What you’ll learn:
- GLP-1 medications can help weight loss by mimicking a hormone that curbs appetite and slows digestion.
- Whether GLP-1s might be right for you depends on your body mass index (BMI) and unique health history.
- GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for those with certain medical conditions.
Even if you don’t know what a GLP-1 receptor agonist is, you’ve likely heard of at least one. Ozempic belongs to this category of medication that is changing the way we approach weight loss. Other names you might have heard are Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. But what do they do and how do you get them?
Here’s a quick lesson: They work by mimicking a naturally-occurring hormone in your body, called GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels, slow down digestion, and decrease appetite. This means they can make you feel fuller longer and help you make better choices about what you eat, leading to weight loss. But are GLP-1 medications right for everyone?
No, GLP-1 medications must be prescribed by a doctor or licensed clinician to address a specific issue. They can also have side effects. While most are mild and manageable, rarely they can be serious. There’s also an issue of cost, which we’ll get into.
Let’s explore who might be eligible for GLP-1 medications and the possible benefits and risks. Plus, we’ll tell you about how Noom can support people using these treatments for sustainable weight loss and a healthier life.
Who can be prescribed GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications can make losing weight easier, but they’re not for everyone. Let’s answer some common questions about the options, who can use them, and how well they work.
What are GLP-1 medications prescribed for?
GLP-1 medications are mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes and to manage weight. Each brand of GLP-1 medication is FDA-approved to treat one or more of these conditions. But, these medications can often be prescribed off-label for conditions that they aren’t FDA-approved for.
For example, Ozempic is currently only FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes but is often prescribed off-label for weight management.
To get a prescription for a GLP-1 medication for weight management you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a BMI of ≥30.
or - Have a BMI of ≥27 with at least one weight-related medical condition.
Typically your doctor will also want to see that lifestyle changes alone haven’t worked well for you in the past. Your doctor will help you decide which medication is best for you based on your specific medical needs. Noom Med can also do the work for you by connecting you with qualified clinicians who can pair you with the medication that is the right fit for you.
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What are the most popular GLP-1 medications, how do they work, and what do they cost?
There are several GLP-1 medications that you can ask your doctor about, including semaglutide (Ozempic), tirzepatide (Zepbound), liraglutide, and exenatide. They differ by approved use, how they are taken, effectiveness, and price. Here’s a look:
| Medication | Brand names and uses | Administration | Effectiveness | Cost per month (without insurance) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake | Wegovy (weight loss), Ozempic (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss), Rybelsus (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) | Weekly injection or daily pill (Rybelsus) | In a clinical trial, people taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their initial body weight over 68 weeks. | $930-$1,350 |
| Tirzepatide – GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake. The action on both receptors boosts effectiveness | Zepbound (weight loss), Mounjaro (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) | Weekly injection | In a study, participants lost an average of 21% of their body weight after 72 weeks on the maximum dose of tirzepatide. | $1,000-$1,050 |
| Liraglutide– GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake | Saxenda (weight loss), Victoza (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) | Daily injection | A study showed that weight loss over a year was 6% with a 3 mg dose. | $800-$1,400 |
| Exenatide- GLP-1 receptor agonist that regulates blood sugar | Byetta (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss), Bydureon (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) | Twice daily injection | A study showed that 56% of people lost 5% or more of their body weight with exenatide over six months. | $190-$220 |
| Dulaglutide-GLP-1 receptor agonist that regulates blood sugar | Trulicity (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) | Weekly injection | Study participants were able to lose up to 5% of body weight while taking a 4.5 mg dose of dulaglutide for 36 weeks. | $230-$1,000 |
How does insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications work?
Yes, prices for GLP-1 medications are steep, and the not-so-good news is that insurance coverage can vary widely. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if your medication will be covered. But even if your insurance won’t cover your GLP-1 medication, you have other options.
Some brands offer discount cards or savings programs on their websites, so always check there first. There may also be discounts available through third-party prescription websites. Just be sure to verify these. If you use Noom Med, your clinician will help you find the right medication for you and then help coordinate insurance.
Are there any health issues that might make a GLP-1 unsuitable for me?
GLP-1 medications can be highly effective, but they’re not for everyone. Some medical conditions might rule you out because of the possible risks and interactions. And again, these medications are also only for people who meet certain BMI requirements and need a long-term weight-loss solution. They aren’t for people looking to shed a couple of pounds.
Here are a few other conditions that might mean GLP-1 therapy isn’t right for you:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): GLP-1 medications have been associated with a slightly increased risk of developing MTC, a type of thyroid cancer. Individuals with a personal or family history of MTC are typically not recommended for GLP-1 treatment.
- History of pancreatitis: GLP-1 medications have been linked to a small but increased risk of pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. People with a history of pancreatitis or those with risk factors for the condition may need to avoid these medications.
- Severe gastrointestinal conditions: Individuals may experience worsening of existing stomach and digestion issues when taking GLP-1 medications.
- Allergy to GLP-1 medications: People with known allergies to GLP-1 medications or their components shouldn’t use them.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: GLP-1 medications aren’t for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Other medical conditions: Certain other medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, may require careful consideration and monitoring when using GLP-1 medications.
Before starting GLP-1 medications, always inform your doctor about your health history. They can help you figure out if these medications are a good fit and safe for you.
I’ve heard GLP-1 medications are hard to find. Is that true?
It can be. Even if you have a prescription for a GLP-1 medication, it might not be in stock in your local pharmacy. The increasing demand and the complicated production process for GLP-1 medications have resulted in shortages. Also, some pharmacies are choosing not to carry these medications because their high cost makes it difficult for pharmacies to make money on them.
Are GLP-1 medications right for me? Pros and cons
We know we just threw a lot of information at you. Deciding to go on medication for weight loss is a big, life-changing decision that you and your doctor will decide. Here are easy-to-digest pros and cons to keep in mind when you talk with your doctor or Noom Med clinician:
Pros:
- Significant weight loss: GLP-1 medications can help people lose upwards of 15% of their body weight in as little as a year when paired with lifestyle changes. The chart above has all the details on the amount of weight you can lose with each of the popular GLP-1 medications.
- Improved blood sugar control: If you have type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications can help you manage your blood sugar levels more effectively.
- Reduced appetite and cravings: These medications work to curb your appetite and make you feel fuller sooner, which can be especially helpful if you struggle with overeating or cravings.
- Potential heart health benefits: Some GLP-1 medications like Wegovy can also offer benefits for heart health, such as lowering blood pressure and minimizing the probability of cardiovascular events.
Cons:
- Possible side effects: Most people experience some side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, especially when first starting the medication. These side effects usually subside over time, but it’s important to be aware of them.
- Ongoing treatment: GLP-1 medications typically need to be taken continuously to maintain their effects. This means you’ll need to discuss long-term treatment plans with your healthcare provider.
- Cost: These medications can be expensive, and insurance coverage may vary. Be sure to discuss costs and coverage options with your doctor or insurance provider.
- Not for everyone: GLP-1 medications aren’t suitable for everyone, as we detail above. Certain medical conditions, like a history of pancreatitis or thyroid cancer, may make these medications unsafe.
Transform your health with Noom
GLP-1s can be a valuable part of your weight loss plan when combined with a healthy lifestyle plan like Noom. Determining if a GLP-1 medication is right for you requires looking at several factors, and is a decision that needs to be made with a healthcare professional.
If you qualify for Noom Med, we’ll connect you with a clinician who will review your goals, history, tests, and medical background to create a personalized weight loss plan. You can ask them any questions you have about GLP-1 medications and they can discuss why they may or may not be a part of your plan.
After that, our care team will help you navigate insurance, get the medication, and handle side effects. Plus, you’ll have the entire Noom program at your disposal to make important lifestyle changes that will transform your life.
Note: Ozempic. Mounjaro, Byetta, Bydureon, Rybelsus, Victoza, and Trulicity are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
