> Quick Answer: During your first month on GLP-1 medication, expect: Week 1-2: mild nausea and decreased appetite as your body adjusts. Week 3-4: side effects improve, weight loss becomes noticeable (typically 2-5 lbs). Most patients lose 4-8 lbs in the first month. Drink plenty of water, eat small frequent meals, and focus on protein.
Your First Month: What to Expect
Starting GLP-1 medication is an exciting step toward your weight loss goals. Here's a detailed guide to what you can expect during your first four weeks.
Week 1: Getting Started
What Happens
- You'll receive your medication with detailed instructions
- Start with the lowest dose (titration phase)
- Your body begins adjusting to the medication
What You Might Feel
- Mild nausea - usually manageable and temporary
- Decreased appetite - you may notice eating less naturally
- Some fatigue - your body is adjusting
Tips for Week 1
- Take your injection at the same time each week
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Stay well-hydrated (64+ oz water daily)
- Avoid fatty, greasy foods that can worsen nausea
- Keep crackers or ginger tea on hand for nausea
Week 2: Adjustment Continues
What Happens
- Side effects typically peak then begin to improve
- Appetite suppression becomes more noticeable
- You may notice early weight changes
What You Might Feel
- Nausea usually improving
- Feeling satisfied with smaller portions
- Possible mild constipation
- Energy levels stabilizing
Tips for Week 2
- Continue eating small, frequent meals
- Add fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation
- Don't force yourself to eat if not hungry
- Listen to your body's hunger signals
Week 3: Finding Your Rhythm
What Happens
- Most people are well-adjusted by now
- Side effects significantly reduced
- Weight loss becoming noticeable
- Eating patterns changing naturally
What You Might Feel
- More comfortable with the medication
- Noticing clothes fitting differently
- Better energy levels
- Less food "noise" in your mind
Tips for Week 3
- Focus on protein at each meal
- Start or continue exercise routine
- Track your progress (weight, measurements, how you feel)
- Celebrate non-scale victories
Week 4: Seeing Results
What Happens
- First month complete!
- Typical weight loss: 4-8 lbs
- Body well-adjusted to starting dose
- Provider may discuss dose increase
What You Might Feel
- Confident in the process
- Motivated by early results
- Establishing new eating habits
- Ready for next phase
Tips for Week 4
- Take progress photos
- Note any questions for your provider
- Prepare for potential dose increase
- Reflect on positive changes
Managing Common Side Effects
Nausea
- Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- Avoid lying down after meals
- Try ginger tea or ginger candies
- Eat bland foods when feeling nauseous
- Take medication at bedtime if daytime nausea is bothersome
Constipation
- Increase fiber intake gradually
- Drink plenty of water
- Stay physically active
- Consider a fiber supplement if needed
Fatigue
- Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours)
- Stay hydrated
- Don't skip meals entirely
- Light exercise can actually boost energy
Injection Site Reactions
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
- Let medication reach room temperature before injecting
- Apply ice before injection if sensitive
- Clean area with alcohol and let dry
When to Contact Your Provider
Reach out to your care team if you experience:
- Severe nausea or vomiting that doesn't improve
- Signs of dehydration
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Any concerns that worry you
What NOT to Do
- Don't skip meals entirely - aim for smaller portions, not starvation
- Don't ignore severe side effects - contact your provider
- Don't get discouraged by slow weeks - weight loss isn't linear
- Don't compare your results to others - everyone's journey is different
- Don't stop medication suddenly - talk to your provider first
Setting Realistic Expectations
First Month Goals
- Lose 4-8 lbs (individual results vary)
- Adjust to the medication
- Establish new eating patterns
- Build momentum for continued success
What Success Looks Like
- Feeling in control around food
- Smaller portions feeling satisfying
- Energy for daily activities
- Positive mindset about the journey
Looking Ahead
After your first successful month, you'll likely:
- Increase to a higher dose (gradual titration)
- Continue steady weight loss
- Build on healthy habits
- See cumulative results over time
Remember: The first month is about adjusting. The real transformation happens over the following months as you continue treatment.
This guide is for informational purposes only. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved finished drug products.