What are GLP-1 medications (tirzepatide and semaglutide) and how do they work?

GLP-1 medications like tirzepatide and semaglutide mimic a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar. When combined with healthy nutrition, movement, and support, GLP-1 treatments can help many people achieve sustainable weight loss and improve metabolic health.

How they work: GLP-1 medications act on your stomach (slowing emptying so you feel full longer), your brain (reducing cravings and making it easier to eat smaller portions), and your pancreas and liver (improving blood sugar control). Most are given as once-weekly injections.

Potential benefits:

• Weight loss through reduced appetite and better portion control.
• Metabolic improvements, including better A1c, cholesterol, and blood pressure for many patients.
• Behavioral momentum, making it easier to stick to nutrition and movement routines.

What to expect

Most people notice reduced appetite and earlier fullness within the first couple of weeks. Early side effects like nausea, fullness and constipation are common, especially around dose changes, and usually ease as your body adapts.

For how weight loss typically progresses over months, see What results should I expect, why does the scale jump around, and what if I plateau?

Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide works on two hormone pathways instead of one: GIP and GLP-1. Both play a role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Because it targets two pathways, tirzepatide may produce stronger results than similar medications for some patients, though it can come with different side effects and not everyone needs the extra effect. The brand-name tirzepatide medications are Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a well-established GLP-1 medication with strong results for both weight loss and blood sugar control. It acts on the single GLP-1 pathway. The brand-name semaglutide medications are Ozempic and Wegovy.

Belle's medications are compounded

Belle prescribes compounded tirzepatide and semaglutide, prepared for you by a licensed compounding pharmacy. Compounded medications aren't FDA-approved. To learn more, see Is compounded medication legitimate and safe?

Which one is right for you?

Your provider reviews your medical history and goals to help decide which is the right fit for you, and you can ask to revisit that choice at any point. See Can I switch between tirzepatide and semaglutide?

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