GLP-1 Medications Explained: What Women Should Know
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are everywhere. Here is a plain-English guide to how they work, who they are for, and the questions worth asking.
- GLP-1 medications mimic a gut hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar.
- They are prescription medicines for people who meet medical criteria, used alongside diet and activity.
- Digestive side effects are common, especially when starting or increasing the dose.
GLP-1 receptor agonists were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes. Some are now also approved for chronic weight management. You will hear brand names such as Wegovy and Ozempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound and Mounjaro (tirzepatide, which acts on GLP-1 and a second hormone, GIP).
How they work
GLP-1 is a hormone your gut releases after eating. The medications mimic it, which can:
- help you feel full sooner and for longer,
- slow how quickly your stomach empties,
- reduce the constant background thoughts about food that many people describe, and
- help regulate blood sugar.
Who they are for
For weight management, these medicines are generally prescribed for adults with obesity, or with overweight and at least one weight-related health condition, based on an assessment by a licensed clinician. They are meant to be used together with changes to eating and activity, not instead of them.
Side effects
The most common side effects are digestive: nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting and reduced appetite. Treatment usually starts at a low dose and increases gradually to help the body adjust. Serious side effects are less common but possible, which is why these medicines need a prescription and follow-up.
Brand-name and compounded versions
Brand-name medicines are FDA-approved. Compounded versions are prepared by pharmacies and are not FDA-approved, which means the FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. If you are considering any option, ask who is reviewing your health information, where the medication is made, and what the full cost will be over time.
Questions to ask
- Am I a good candidate, given my health history and other medicines?
- What side effects should I expect, and when should I call you?
- How will we adjust the dose, and how long might I take it?
- How should I eat and exercise to protect muscle while losing weight?
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or another qualified health professional. If you have symptoms or concerns, please talk to a clinician who knows your history.
