GLP-1 Weight Loss  PRE & POST CARE

GLP-1 Weight Loss Program Patient Pre- & Post-Care Blueprint: What to Expect

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BEFORE STARTING GLP-1 THERAPY: PRE-TREATMENT GUIDELINES

Medical Readiness

Prior to starting treatment:

• A full medical history, medication review, and lab work may be required.

• Inform your provider if you have a history of:

  • Thyroid disease or thyroid cancer

  • Pancreatitis

  • Gallbladder disease

  • Severe gastrointestinal disorders

  • Eating disorders

• GLP-1 therapy is not recommended if pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy.

 

 

NUTRITION & LIFESTYLE PREP

• Start preparing 1–2 weeks before your first injection:

• Eat a high-protein diet to preserve muscle mass and support metabolism.

  • Aim for protein at every meal.

• Begin hydrating well (minimum 64–80 oz water daily).

• Reduce:

  • Large, heavy meals

  • Fried or greasy foods

  • Excess sugar and alcohol

• Eat smaller, balanced meals to prepare your digestive system.

• Avoid starting GLP-1 right before major travel or events.

 

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WHAT TO EXPECT INITIALLY

• Appetite suppression begins gradually.

• Early side effects may include:

  • Nausea

  • Fullness

  • Mild reflux

  • Constipation or diarrhea

• These are common and usually dose-related and temporary.

 

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POST-START CARE & EXPECTATIONS

 

FIRST 1–4 WEEKS: ADJUSTMENT PHASE

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Your body is adapting.

 

DO:

• Eat small, protein-forward meals.

• Eat slowly and stop when full.

• Stay well hydrated.

• Focus on:

  • Lean protein

  • Fiber

  • Electrolytes if needed

• Light activity such as walking is encouraged.

 

 

AVOID:

 

• Overeating

• Fatty, greasy, or highly processed foods

• Alcohol (especially early on)

• Skipping meals entirely

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COMMON SIDE EFFECT MANAGEMENT

• Nausea: eat smaller meals, avoid greasy foods, stay upright after eating

• Constipation: increase water, fiber, magnesium if approved

• Fatigue: ensure adequate protein and hydration

• Contact the office if symptoms are persistent, severe, or worsening.

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ONGOING CARE & LONG-TERM SUCCESS

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NUTRITION

• High-protein intake is essential throughout treatment to prevent muscle loss.

• Do not starve yourself — GLP-1s are not meant for extreme calorie restriction.

• Balanced meals = better results and fewer side effects.

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MOVEMENT

• Strength training is encouraged once tolerated.

• Focus on preserving lean muscle, not just weight loss.

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DOSING & TITRATION

• Doses are increased gradually to improve tolerance.

• Do not adjust dose without provider guidance.

• Skipping doses or rapid titration increases side effects.

 

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WHAT IS NORMAL VS NOT

 

NORMAL

• Slower digestion

• Decreased appetite

• Gradual weight loss

• Plateaus (common and expected)

 

NOT NORMAL — CONTACT THE OFFICE

• Severe or persistent vomiting

• Severe abdominal pain

• Signs of dehydration

• Symptoms of gallbladder issues (right upper abdominal pain)

• Signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain radiating to the back)

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IMPORTANT PROGRAM NOTES

• GLP-1 medications are tools, not magic.

• 6-12 month commitment required

• Sustainable results depend on:

  • Nutrition

  • Muscle preservation

  • Lifestyle consistency

• Weight regain can occur if medication is stopped without a transition plan.

• A maintenance or tapering strategy may be discussed when goals are reached.