Expert shares the key things you should know when starting GLP-1 medications

An expert has revealed what you should know when starting weight loss jobs, including what happens when you come off the medication.

A report published last year found that one in eight Americans had used GLP-1 drugs for weight loss purposes, while 14 percent said they were interesting in trying these types of medications.

The RAND report also revealed that since 2020, the number of prescriptions for GLP-1s has more than tripled.

We're all advised to do our research before trying out new medications such as Ozempic or Mounjaro, and now Aaron Arman, Superintendent Pharmacist at CheqUp, has broken down some of the key bits of information we should consider when starting them.

From how they work to your expectations of what you'll achieve on the drugs, Aaron has explained it all.

Millions of Americans are trying out GLP-1s to lose weight (Getty Stock)

Expectations

One key thing people need to consider is their expectations, one being that GLP-1s are not the quick fix a lot of people believe them to be.

"What matters most is setting expectations," said Aaron. "This isn’t a quick fix, and long‑term success depends on pairing medication with lifestyle change and the right support."

The expert added: "The first few months (the titration period) are about getting the body used to the medication, managing side effects and instilling healthy habits."

Side effects

Because of how the medication impacts your gut, it can cause some gastrointestinal side effects.

Aaron explained: "GLP‑1 medicines work by slowing digestion and helping regulate appetite and blood sugar. Because they act on the gut, some people might experience small gastrointestinal side effects early on-such as nausea, reflux, bloating ,or constipation – especially in the first few weeks or after a dose increase."

Going on to discuss possible risks of GLP-1s, he shared: "The biggest risks come from rushing dose increases or using medication without proper clinical oversight. It works best as part of a structured health plan with ongoing check‑ins, so people stay safe and get results they can maintain."

Constipation is one of the possible side effects of taking the mediation (Getty Stock)

Coming off the medication

"When GLP‑1 treatment is stopped, appetite and digestion can shift back towards pre‑treatment levels," said Aaron. "If someone hasn’t built sustainable habits alongside the medication, that’s when they’re most vulnerable to regain."

Discussing how people can prevent putting weight back on after coming off the drugs, he said that it all comes down to the healthy habits built while taking GLP-1s.

Aaron shared: "The best way to reduce rebound is planning and support. Stopping should be a considered decision, ideally guided, with a focus on regular meals, sufficient protein, and realistic portions.

"Long‑term success isn’t defined by the fastest drop on the scales. It’s defined by whether the habits you build while losing weight can carry you forward once the medication changes or ends."

Where you get the medication from

Reportedly back street sales of drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are booming, so Aaron warned that it's important that you're obtaining your medication from 'a safe and reliable source'.

He also stated that professional support is a key part of the process.

"Reclaiming your health isn’t always easy, and nobody should be left navigating dosing decisions, side effects, or stopping plans alone," Aaron said.

"Support cannot be an afterthought – it has to be a core part of using the medication safely and properly."