What is a GLP-1 medication and how does it work?

GLP-1 medications (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. They slow digestion, reduce hunger signals, and help your body use insulin more effectively. Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are all in this class. They are given as weekly injections and produce an average of 10–22% body weight loss depending on the medication.

Who qualifies for GLP-1 weight loss medications?

FDA guidelines approve GLP-1s for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related condition such as Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or heart disease. Use our free eligibility calculator for an instant estimate.

What are the most common GLP-1 side effects?

The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation — especially in the first few weeks as your dose increases. Most people find these manageable with smaller meals, staying hydrated, and timing injections at night. Serious side effects are rare. See our complete GLP-1 side effects guide for a week-by-week breakdown.

What is the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?

Both contain semaglutide, but Ozempic is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes (at doses up to 2mg) while Wegovy is approved specifically for weight management (at 2.4mg). Wegovy typically produces greater weight loss due to the higher dose. Insurance coverage differs significantly — Ozempic often has better T2D coverage. Read our full Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro comparison.

How much do GLP-1 medications cost?

List prices are $900–$1,400/month without insurance. With manufacturer savings cards, some patients pay as little as $25/month. Many insurance plans cover Ozempic for diabetes but not Wegovy for weight loss. Compounded semaglutide through telehealth platforms can cost $150–$300/month. See our complete cost and insurance guide.

What happens when you stop taking GLP-1 medications?

Most people regain a significant portion of lost weight after stopping — studies show an average of two-thirds of lost weight returns within a year. This is because GLP-1s treat the underlying biology of obesity, not just the symptoms. Read our guide on coming off GLP-1 medications for strategies to minimize rebound.

Written by people actually on GLP-1 · Updated 2026

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GLP-1 medications mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. They slow digestion, reduce hunger signals, and improve insulin response. Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are all in this class — weekly injections producing an average of 10–22% body-weight loss depending on the medication.

FDA criteria: BMI 30+, or BMI 27+ with at least one weight-related condition (Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart disease). Run the free eligibility check for an instant estimate.

Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation — worst during the first weeks of each dose increase. Most people manage them with smaller meals, hydration, and night-time injections. Serious side effects are rare. See the week-by-week guide.

Both are semaglutide. Ozempic is approved for Type 2 diabetes (up to 2 mg); Wegovy for weight management (2.4 mg) — typically more weight loss at the higher dose. Insurance coverage differs a lot: Ozempic usually has better T2D coverage. Which one is right for you →

List prices: $900–$1,400/month without insurance. With manufacturer savings cards, some pay as little as $25/month. Compounded semaglutide via telehealth: $150–$300/month. Complete cost & insurance guide →

Studies show roughly two-thirds of lost weight returns within a year of stopping — GLP-1s treat the biology of obesity, not just symptoms. Read the guides for strategies that minimize rebound.

Ready to find out if a GLP-1 is right for you?

Run the free eligibility check, then match with a vetted telehealth provider — many evaluate within 24–48 hours.

Check my eligibility → Browse providers

Ozempic

Wegovy

Mounjaro

Every step of the journey, covered.

See if you qualify in 60 seconds

Read your honest breakdown

Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro

Match with a vetted telehealth provider

Start where the questions are.

4 Free GLP-1 Tools: Check Eligibility, Project Your Weight Loss, and Master Your Shot Days

Constipated on Ozempic? Natural Remedies That Actually Help (+ What the Community Uses)

I Did 90 Days on GLP-1. Here’s What Nobody Warned Me About.

Ozempic May Reduce Depression, Anxiety, and Addiction Risk — What Two Major Studies Found

Your Compounded Semaglutide Is Under Threat — Here’s What’s Actually Happening in 2026

Generic Ozempic Is Coming — And It Could Change Everything

Numbers, not promises.

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The questions everyone asks first.

Ready to find out if a GLP-1 is right for you?

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