What to Consider Before Starting GLP-1 Injections

Making lifestyle changes, like adopting a healthy diet, cutting back on calories, and staying active, has always been the go-to advice for long-term weight management. But now, GLP-1 medications, which are FDA-approved for diabetes, are offering an easier way for men and women to reach their weight-loss goals. These medications mimic a natural hormone (GLP-1) in the body that helps regulate insulin and blood sugar levels while promoting feelings of fullness. GLP-1 injections in NYC are proving to be an effective option for managing weight. However, before starting this injectable treatment, there are certain things you should consider, including the side effects and whether it is the right choice for you based on your individual needs and lifestyle.

Important Considerations before starting GLP-1 Injections

Before you begin GLP-1 treatment, it’s essential to ensure they are a safe and effective option for your weight management. By understanding how they might impact your health, you can make an informed decision about whether they align with your goals, lifestyle, and medical needs. These factors help minimize potential risks and maximize the benefits of the treatment.

Key points to consider before starting GLP-1 injections:

Side effects: The most common side effects of these weight loss injections are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain. According to a recent study published in The BMJ, higher doses of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs can be more effective but also result in more severe side effects. These gastrointestinal issues usually lessen over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

Medical history: This weight loss injectable is not universally effective for all patients. Certain medical conditions can impact your eligibility for this weight loss injectable. It’s important that you inform your provider about any pre-existing conditions like pancreatitis, gastroparesis, or a history of thyroid C-cell tumors. People with these conditions are not considered suitable candidates for GLP-1 therapy.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, GLP-1 medications may not be recommended during these times.

As a Wolters Kluwers article notes, being overweight or obese can make it harder to get pregnant, and doctors often recommend weight loss to improve fertility. While GLP-1 medications don’t directly improve fertility, they can help with weight loss, which may reduce one factor affecting fertility. However, if a patient using GLP-1 medications plans to get pregnant or becomes pregnant, they should stop taking the medication right away. Weight loss medications aren’t recommended during pregnancy, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other health organizations.

Other medications: Discuss all medications you are currently taking with your doctor to check for potential interactions.

Lifestyle changes: GLP-1 injections support weight management by regulating appetite, controlling blood sugar levels, and promoting feelings of fullness. But they work best when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise. A healthy diet provides essential nutrients while helping manage calorie intake, and exercise boosts metabolism, enhances energy levels, and supports overall well-being. Together, these lifestyle changes complement the effects of GLP-1 medication, helping more long-lasting and successful weight management outcomes.

Injection technique: GLP-1 medications are expensive injectables delivered through very specific devices. Patients should understand how to properly inject the medication and be comfortable with self-administration. Proper injection technique is crucial to ensure the medication delivers its full therapeutic benefits and to avoid unnecessary waste. In plastic surgery centers specializing in non-invasive procedures in New York, providers walk patients through how to use the device.

Monitoring blood sugar: GLP-1 medications can sometimes cause low blood sugar, and so regular blood sugar monitoring is essential.

Not a quick fix: GLP-1 injections are not a quick fix and require consistent use alongside a healthy lifestyle to achieve sustainable results. Stopping the medication often leads to regaining lost weight. The physician may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects.

Consult an Expert

If you’re considering GLP-1 injections in NYC, opt for an accredited plastic surgery center for safe and effective treatment by skilled professionals. Reliable providers will assess your eligibility for this weight loss solution, customize a treatment plan, and provide expert guidance to help you achieve the best results.