The ABC’s of GLP-1s: Benefits, Side Effects, and Success Stories
GLP-1 medications have been getting a lot of attention in recent years–and for good reason. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, these drugs are now helping many people lose significant amounts of weight.
To break down what GLP-1s are, how they work, and who they might be right for, we sat down with Britleigh Garcia, PA-C, a clinician here at Nice Healthcare who’s completed a certificate program in obesity management through the American Academy of Physician Assistants and The Obesity Society.
In this webinar, you’ll learn about benefits, side effects, real patient stories, and how our care team can support you every step of the way if you decide to give treatment a try.
Key points:
GLP-1 medications help manage type 2 diabetes and support significant weight loss by controlling blood sugar and appetite.
They may also reduce the risk of heart disease, kidney issues, and sleep apnea.
GLP-1s are most effective when combined with healthy eating and regular exercise.
Side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation are common early on but often improve with proper management.
Nice Healthcare offers personalized, team-based support for patients considering GLP-1s.
What are GLP-1s?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic a natural hormone in the body (glucagon-like peptide-1) to help regulate blood sugar and control appetite.
Scientists originally developed them to treat type 2 diabetes, but research shows they also promote weight loss when paired with healthy habits.
These medications work by:
Slowing digestion, helping you feel full longer
Helping the pancreas release insulin when blood sugar levels rise
Telling the liver to stop making extra sugar when it’s not needed
Reducing food cravings by acting on appetite centers in the brain
Which GLP-1 is best for weight loss?
The FDA has approved three GLP-1s in particular for both type 2 diabetes treatment and weight loss:
Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza): While effective, this once-daily injection generally leads to more modest weight loss compared to newer options (it’s been around since 2014).
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy): Clinicians use Ozempic to treat diabetes, and Wegovy for weight loss. Both contain semaglutide, a once-weekly injection.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, ZepBound): This dual-action medication mimics both GLP-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP, another naturally occurring hormone), resulting in even greater weight loss for many people. Mounjaro is for diabetes; Zepbound is approved for weight loss.
Who Are GLP-1 Agonist Drugs For?
Your clinician may recommend a GLP-1 medication for type 2 diabetes if you’ve already tried metformin, the most common first-line treatment.
If you’re taking the maximum dose of metformin and your blood sugar or A1C levels aren’t improving, adding a GLP-1 could be the next step.
GLP-1s may also be an option if you’re unable to tolerate metformin due to side effects.
For weight loss, your clinician will likely look at your BMI (body mass index)–a rough estimate of your body composition based on your height and weight. While the measurement isn’t perfect, it’s a useful tool for guiding treatment.
You may be a candidate for a GLP-1 medication if you have:
A BMI of 30 or higher, or
A BMI of 27 or higher with a related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes
Healthy Lifestyle Habits Still Matter When Taking GLP-1s
GLP-1 medications can help you lose significant weight, but they’re most effective when combined with healthy habits–not used as a substitute. Your clinician will recommend pairing the medication with:
A nutritious, protein-rich diet
Physical activity–especially with strength training
Hydration to support muscle recovery
These habits not only support weight loss but also:
Benefit your heart health
Boost overall well-being
Preserve lean muscle mass, which can decline during rapid weight loss
How Much Weight Can You Expect to Lose with a GLP-1?
Before GLP-1s hit the market, weight loss medications typically helped people lose about 5 to 10 percent of their body weight. Even a 5% weight loss can lead to meaningful improvements in blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
GLP-1 medications have taken that a step further:
Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza) typically results in an 8-10% weight loss.
Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) is closer to 15%.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/ZepBound) can help patients lose up to 20% of their body weight.
Why Consider a Weight Loss Medication?
For many people, losing weight isn’t just about willpower. After gaining extra pounds, the body often adjusts to a higher set point and:
Increases hunger
Decreases satisfaction
Slows metabolism
Even with healthy habits, that can make long-term weight loss extremely challenging. When lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough, GLP-1 medications can help fill the gap.
At Nice, clinicians treat weight challenges and obesity like any other chronic condition–with a sustainable, long-term plan that combines medication, nutrition, and movement.
Patients often regain some weight after stopping a GLP-1, but your clinician will help you set realistic expectations and find a plan that works for you.
Beyond Weight Loss: Additional Benefits of GLP-1s
These medications act on appetite-regulating pathways in the brain. Many patients report fewer cravings and feel more in control of food decisions after starting treatment.
GLP-1s also provide several other important health benefits:
Better blood sugar control: This is especially helpful for people with prediabetes, as it may prevent progression to type 2 diabetes.
Lower cardiovascular risk: Studies show a 20% reduced risk of heart attack or stroke in people with obesity, and 26% in those with both obesity and diabetes.
Liver health support: May reduce fat buildup in the liver, a common complication of excess weight.
Kidney protection: Helps support kidney function in people with poorly controlled diabetes.
Sleep apnea improvement: ZepBound is now FDA-approved for sleep apnea in people with obesity, as weight loss can ease symptoms like snoring and disrupted breathing.
What Are the Negative Side Effects of GLP-1?
Like any medication, GLP-1s can cause side effects, especially in the early stages of treatment. The most common are digestive issues, including:
Nausea (the most common)
Vomiting
Changes in bowel movements (constipation or diarrhea)
These usually improve over time. Your clinician may keep you on the starting dose longer to help manage them. Some people also experience injection site reactions, such as redness or tenderness.
If you have type 2 diabetes and take insulin, GLP-1s could also increase the risk of low blood sugar. Be sure to let your clinician know about all medications you’re taking.
While rare, other risks include:
Pancreatitis–especially if you’ve had it before or have related risk factors
Possibly thyroid cancer, as seen in animal studies
If you or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, your clinician may recommend a different medication.
How Nice Healthcare Supports Your Weight Loss Journey
Nice Healthcare offers a comprehensive, team-based approach to weight management and GLP-1 care, all starting with a virtual visit.
After your virtual appointment, you’ll have an in-person visit at your home or workplace. Your clinician will check your vitals, height, weight, and draw blood work if needed.
Once results are in, your provider will follow up to discuss your options, including GLP-1 medications if appropriate.
If you start a GLP-1, your care team will check in after a few weeks, and you can message your clinician anytime through the Nice app with questions or updates.
GLP-1s aren’t included in Nice’s covered medications, and can cost over $1,000/month without insurance. That’s why Nice’s care coordinators and clinicians help with prior authorizations from your insurance provider.
You also have access to:
Diabetes education
Short-term mental health therapy
Virtual physical therapy to support safe movement
Real Patient Success Stories
Case 1: A man in his 30s
This patient joined Nice through his employer and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
He started on metformin and a couple of other medications, made lifestyle changes, and lost 20 pounds, improving his A1C (average blood sugar levels) from 10.5% to 7.2%.
Due to side effects from metformin, his clinician added Ozempic, cutting his metformin dose. A temporary third medication helped him adjust to a gradually increasing Ozempic dose. Within a year, he lost 30 more pounds, stopped one blood pressure medication, and reached an A1C of 5.5%.
Case 2: A woman in her 40s
This patient had tried several weight loss options, including bariatric surgery and Ozempic. But her insurance company stopped covering her medication.
At her first Nice visit, her BMI was 31.1. She and her clinician chose ZepBound, and with the help of a savings card, she was able to start treatment.
After seven months, she had lost 36 pounds and reached a BMI of 25.6–all before hitting the full dose. She’s still doing well on the medication, and has room to adjust her dose if needed.
Ask Your Clinician if a GLP-1 May Be Right for You
GLP-1 medications have changed the landscape of care for people navigating type 2 diabetes and weight loss. When paired with healthy habits and personalized support, they can lead to real, lasting progress.
If you're wondering whether a GLP-1 might be right for you, your Nice Healthcare clinician is here to help. Schedule a virtual visit through the Nice app to get started—and take the first step toward feeling your best today.