Starting GLP-1 Therapy? What to Expect on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide 

Woman in athletic wear smiling confidently while holding a water bottle, representing the start of a GLP-1 weight management journey
Posted in Healthcare, Weight Loss

Starting GLP-1 Therapy? What to Expect on Semaglutide or Tirzepatide 

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If you’ve just started semaglutide or tirzepatide, chances are you have questions about what to expect in your first few weeks. At Ivím Health, we believe in giving you straightforward answers so you can feel confident about your care. 

Below, we’ll answer the questions that tend to come up most in the first month: what semaglutide side effects and tirzepatide side effects are normal, how pricing and refills work, and when to reach out to your provider care team.

What Are the Common Semaglutide Side Effects and Tirzepatide Side Effects?

It’s common to experience mild gastrointestinal changes as your body adjusts to treatment. Side effects from semaglutide and tirzepatide are typically temporary and improve as your body adapts. 

Here is what you might notice during the first few weeks on either semaglutide or tirzepatide:  

  • Nausea (the most common, but usually mild) 
  • Constipation 
  • Feeling tired or low energy 
  • Less appetite or feeling full quickly  
  • Headache 

Gastrointestinal symptoms may happen because GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying and are more often seen when starting therapy. For most people, side effects improve significantly within the first few weeks.

How Long Do GLP-1 Side Effects Last?

For some patients, side effects are most noticeable early in treatment and tend to improve as your body adjusts. Semaglutide and tirzepatide can cause what is known as “GLP-1 nausea” which typically peaks in the first few days and then gradually gets better. If it persists or starts to feel unmanageable, your provider can help with adjustments to your dose, give you at home remedies, or other strategies to make things easier. 

If constipation occurs, small changes like increasing your water intake, adding fiber-rich foods, and going for short walks can make a real difference in supporting your digestion while on GLP-1 therapy. Constipation typically improves with time as your body adjusts, but your provider can help recommend strategies if it is causing more significant issues. 

When Should I Reach Out to My Provider?

Mild GLP-1 related side effects like nausea or digestive changes are normal during the adjustment period, and for most people, these symptoms improve within the first few weeks of treatment. But everyone’s experience is different, and there are some situations where it’s a good idea to check in with your Ivím provider: 

  • Nausea or vomiting that keeps you from eating or drinking 
  • You cannot keep fluids down for more than 24 hours 
  • Signs of dehydration like dizziness, dark urine, or a fast heartbeat 
  • Severe or ongoing abdominal pain 
  • Symptoms that are getting in the way of your daily life 
  • Anything that feels concerning or unusual to you 

If something doesn’t feel right, you don’t need to push through it on your own. Ivím offers unlimited telehealth GLP-1 care, so connecting with your provider is easy and can happen from the comfort of home. Your provider is here to help, whether that means adjusting your dose timing, recommending changes to your nutrition, or finding other ways to make the transition easier. 

What Is Included in My Membership? 

Being an Ivím member means having a care team in your corner. Your $74.99 monthly membership includes access to our full range of services and support, including: 

  • Concierge access to our medical team, including registered nurses,nurse practitioners, and board-certified obesity medicine physicians. 
  • The ability to schedule appointments with your healthcare provider and order medications 
  • Full access to the Ivím Health mobile app, which includes personalized health coaching, nutrition and dietary recommendations, educational resources, and tracking tools to monitor your progress 
  • Access to our community platform where you can connect with other members on similar journeys 
  • Support from our Patient Experience team whenever you need it 

If you selected a multi-month program, your membership remains active for the duration of that plan to allow for safe medication management and ongoing support. 

If you selected a multi-month program, your membership remains active for the duration of that plan to allow for safe medication management and ongoing support. Your GLP-1 medication cost and membership are billed separately, and once your final payment is made, you can cancel your membership anytime through the Subscriptions tab in your My Account page. 

Does My GLP-1 Medication Ship All at Once? 

If you sign up for program of two months or longer we ship your medication in eight-week increments rather than all at once. This allows your provider to stay connected with your progress, review your dosing along the way, and ensure your medication remains fresh and effective.

About fifteen days before your current supply runs out, you’ll complete a quick follow-up, either through a video visit or an online questionnaire. Your app and online patient dashboard will show your refill eligibility date so you always know when it’s time to check in. Once that’s done, the checkout will confirm that your plan covers your next two months of medication. 

What Does GLP-1 Medication Cost? 

All compound programs require upfront payment. Here’s what the GLP-1 medication cost looks like: 

Your $74.99 monthly membership stays active throughout your treatment, and your initial consultation is free. There are several plan options available, and your provider is always happy to help you figure out which one fits your needs and goals. 

How Do GLP-1 Refills Work? Do I Need to Request It or Will It Auto Ship? 

Medications don’t auto-ship, so when you’re ready for more, you’ll submit a refill request or schedule an appointment with your provider. 

Your app and online patient dashboard will show your refill eligibility date, and we recommend checking in about fifteen days before your current program ends so there’s no gap in your treatment. 

These regular check-ins are an important part of the process. They give your provider a chance to check in on your progress, make dosing adjustments if needed, and help with any GLP-1 side effects you may be experiencing along the way. It’s all about making sure your care stays safe and effective as you go. 

A Few Tips for Your First Week

These small habits can help minimize GLP-1 side effects and make your adjustment period a little easier, whether you’re starting on semaglutide or tirzepatide: 

  • Start with smaller meals. Large portions can make GLP-1 nausea worse. Try eating smaller amounts throughout the day and stop when you feel satisfied, not stuffed. 
  • Focus on protein. Getting enough protein helps with energy and preserves muscle as you lose weight. 
  • Drink plenty of water. Aim for at least 64 ounces a day. Sipping throughout the day works better than drinking a lot at once. This also helps with GLP-1 constipation. 
  • Go easy on greasy and spicy foods. These types of foods become harder to digest while on GLP-1 therapy. Stick with simpler options like lean proteins, vegetables, rice, and whole grains. 
  • Stay upright after eating. Try not to lie down for 20 to 30 minutes after meals. It helps with digestion. 
  • Give yourself grace with the scale. Your first week is about adjusting, not dramatic results. The real changes come later as you reach your therapeutic dose. 

Most importantly, don’t hesitate to reach out to your care team if something feels off. No question is too small, and we’re here to help you through it. 

We Are Here for You 

Your first week is about adjusting, and a little patience goes a long way. Most GLP-1 side effects are mild and temporary, and your care team is here to support you through the transition.

If you have questions that aren’t covered here, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re with you every step of the way. 

Still exploring whether GLP-1 therapy might be a good fit? Our providers can help. Get started with a free evaluation to talk through your goals and see if treatment is right for you. 

Medically reviewed by Courtney Floyd, MD, Physician at Ivím Health 

Disclaimer:  

Compounded Medications: Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide are not FDA-approved. Compounded drugs have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or manufacturing quality. The FDA does not verify the safety, effectiveness, or quality of compounded drugs. 

Prescription Medications: Prescription provided only if clinically appropriate. All prescriptions are at the sole discretion of licensed healthcare providers based on individual patient evaluation. 

Individual Results: Individual results may vary. Weight loss outcomes depend on medication adherence, lifestyle factors, and individual response. Consult your healthcare provider before making any medication changes. 

Medical Advice: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider regarding your health needs, diagnosis, and medication management. 

Trademarks: Wegovy® and Ozempic® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. Ivím Health is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by these manufacturers. 

 

 

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