A Beginner’s Guide to GLP-1 Medications: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound

If you’ve just been prescribed a GLP-1 medication or you’re trying to figure out if one is right for you..

Every single week, thousands of people start these medications for the first time. So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure, or just want to know what to expect… this guide is for you.

Let’s break it all down, what GLP-1s actually do, how they’re different, and what you need to know before and after starting. Plus, the lifestyle changes that can take your results to a whole new level.

What Are GLP-1s and How Do They Work?

These medications were originally created for type 2 diabetes, but they’re now widely used (and FDA-approved) for weight loss, too.

Here’s how they help:They mimic a hormone your body already produces after eating. One that:

Slows digestion
Helps balance blood sugar
Tells your brain you're full

The result? You feel satisfied with smaller portions, you’re less drawn to snack mindlessly, and that background food noise in your head gets quieter.

Most people say it's like finally having space between them and their cravings and that space? It changes everything.

Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Mounjaro vs Zepbound: What’s the Difference?

Ozempic and Wegovy both contain semaglutide.
Mounjaro and Zepbound both contain tirzepatide.

The only real difference is what they’re FDA-approved for. Ozempic and Mounjaro are for diabetes, while Wegovy and Zepbound are specifically approved for weight loss.

But the ingredients are the same, and the doses are just adjusted depending on your prescription.

Tirzepatide (in Mounjaro/Zepbound) targets two hunger hormones instead of one, which is why many people find it even more effective but it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. The best medication is the one that works well for you, with side effects you can manage.

What to Expect When You Start a GLP-1

Everyone’s timeline is a bit different, but here’s a general idea of what tends to happen:

Weeks 1–2:Mild side effects are common: nausea, fatigue, constipation, or bloating. Stay hydrated and start slow.

Weeks 3–4:Appetite starts to decrease, cravings calm down, and eating less feels easier. The scale might start to move here.

Months 2 and beyond:Eating patterns shift. You might feel more in control around food than you have in years. It’s common to hit a few plateaus, totally normal and nothing to panic over.

Just remember: results won’t be overnight. But with consistency, the progress adds up in ways that last.

Lifestyle Habits That Maximize Results

GLP-1s help, but they aren’t magic. Pair them with smart habits, and your progress will go further, faster.

Prioritize protein.

Include it in every meal: eggs, Greek yogurt, lean meats, tofu, shakes. It keeps you full, helps maintain muscle, and improves satisfaction.

Hydrate like it’s your job.

Aim for half your body weight (in pounds) in ounces of water daily. More if you’re working out or it’s hot.

Move your body daily.

Start with simple walks after meals, then build up to 150–300 minutes per week. Add in strength training twice a week to protect your metabolism and support fat loss.

Eat gently after injections.

Skip the greasy or heavy meals right after dosing, they can worsen side effects. Think: soup, cooked veggies, light proteins.

Sleep matters.

Poor sleep = more hunger, more cravings, and slower progress. Aim for 7–8 hours a night.

Manage your stress.

Chronic stress raises cortisol, which can stall fat loss. Try journaling, walking, breathwork , anything that helps you decompress.

Take care of your mental health.

This part gets overlooked too often, but it matters just as much as food and fitness. If something’s weighing you down emotionally, that can show up in your physical progress too.

The Five Pillars for Long-Term Success

If you want your progress to last beyond the medication, these are the five habits to build:

Nutrition knowledge
Exercise consistency
Quality sleep
Stress management
Emotional and mental health awareness

If you can hit even 80% with these most of the time, you’re setting yourself up for real, sustainable change, not just weight loss, but improved health overall.

One More Thing (That Makes a Big Difference)

Starting a GLP-1 medication can feel like a big step.. and it is. But getting the right support can make a massive difference in how confident and successful you feel throughout the process.

If you're not already working with a provider you trust, this is a great option. It connects you with professionals who actually specialize in GLP-1s, walk you through your treatment plan, and help you manage the process every step of the way, from medication access to nutrition support.

There’s no pressure, no gimmicks.. just straightforward help from people who get it. If you're ready to feel more in control of your journey, it's worth checking out.

And if you’re already on a GLP-1 but feel like you’re winging it with side effects, unsure about dose changes, or just not seeing the progress you hoped for, IVIM Health offers personalized care that meets you where you are.

You can learn more right here.