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Your top GLP-1 and Ozempic® questions—answered by a doctor

1 min Read

Reviewed by:

Dr Odhett Cojocaru, MD

Internist

Dr Adonis Saremi, the Chief Medical Officer at Noom, answers 5 of the most frequently asked GLP-1 and Ozempic® questions and shares expert tips to maximize your weight loss success.

What you’ll learn:   

  • GLP-1 agonists can significantly aid weight loss and work best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.       
  • Setting realistic and achievable weight loss goals is crucial for maintaining motivation and long-term success.       
  • Maintaining muscle mass and managing side effects are essential components of a successful weight loss journey with GLP-1 agonists.

The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic® for weight loss has taken off in recent years. These medications, originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, have been shown to be highly effective for weight loss, off-label in the case of Ozempic®. By mimicking the effects of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Zepbound® reduce appetite and slow down digestion, helping people eat less and ultimately lose weight. 

But you might still have lots of questions about how to maximize the effects of these medications. Or, you might be worried about losing muscle, that your face will change, or that the side effects will be too much for you to handle.

Dr. Adonis Saremi, the Chief Medical Officer at Noom, says he gets lots of questions about how to make the most of GLP-1 and Ozempic® treatment. While these drugs can be highly effective for weight loss, he stresses that they are not a quick fix. “It’s about creating lasting changes,” he says. You can see better, long-term results when you pair these medications with balanced eating and regular physical activity.

Here are the top questions most people ask Dr. Adonis about GLP-1s and some expert tips on getting the most out of therapy. If you have more questions, see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, we’ll pair you with a clinician who can answer all of your questions and find the right medication for you if needed. Find out if you qualify today.

How do I set realistic weight loss goals while taking a GLP-1?

When starting your weight loss journey with GLP-1 agonists, it’s important to focus on more than just the number on the scale. “The primary goal is improving overall health, not just shedding pounds,” says Dr. Adonis. Shifting your mindset to overall well-being can create a sustainable plan that delivers lasting results.

To stay motivated and track your progress effectively, set both short-term and long-term goals. “By focusing on achievable milestones and sustainable lifestyle changes, people can empower themselves for long-term success,” explains Dr. Adonis. Here are some examples of both to get you started:

Set short-term goals

Breaking your weight loss into smaller, achievable milestones can make the process less overwhelming and keep your motivation high. Here are some examples:

  • Lose 1 to 2 pounds per week: Set a realistic, achievable weight loss target that supports steady progress.
  • Feel more energetic: Notice improvements in how your body feels as you adopt healthier habits. Can you walk for 20 minutes instead of 10? Can you talk that flight of stairs to your office without feeling winded? 
  • Make small lifestyle changes: Swap sugary drinks for water or add an extra serving of vegetables to each meal. Track it all in your Noom food tracker to get a weekly progress report on the positive changes you’re making every day.
  • Track non-scale victories: Celebrate fitting into an old pair of jeans or feeling more confident in your day-to-day life. 

Set long-term goals

Building sustainable habits and focusing on health improvements can set you up for lasting success. Consider these goals:

  • Improve your overall health: Work toward better blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other health markers over time.
  • Improve your body composition: Aim to build more muscle or reduce your body fat percentage. Use Noom Body Scan every two weeks to keep an eye on your stats.
  • Maintain weight loss: Develop strategies for keeping the weight off long-term by emphasizing balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
  • Build sustainable habits: Create routines like regular exercise and mindful eating that support your lifestyle even after completing GLP-1 therapy.

Remember, every step forward counts. Celebrate your victories—whether it’s reaching a short-term milestone or achieving a long-term health improvement—and stay committed to building habits that support your overall well-being. Small steps lead to big changes, creating a healthier, happier you.

High-quality meds. Powerful psychology-based weight loss.

  • Starting at $149/month
  • Meds to your door in 7 days
  • 100% online access to coaches and doctors
  • Backed by Noom's award winning behavior change program

See if you qualify

Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.

What lifestyle changes should I make while on GLP-1 therapy?

There’s no way around it; nearly every study shows that eating right and exercising more help GLP-1 medication work their best. Making small lifestyle changes can have a big impact when you’re taking these medications. 

“Incorporating regular physical activity and being mindful of making healthy dietary choices are key,” says Dr. Adonis. Finding an exercise routine you enjoy and adopting a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins can complement the effects of GLP-1 agonist therapy and enhance weight loss efforts.” Here are some tips:

  • Eat to feel good: Your diet doesn’t need to be complicated. Focus on building meals and snacks around colorful fruits, fresh vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These foods keep you full and energized. Using Noom’s food color system, food tracking tools, and smart swaps can help guide your choices. 
  • Find joyful movement: Exercise should be fun! Pick something you enjoy, whether it’s a daily walk with a friend, dancing to your favorite playlist, or a yoga session at home. The key is to make it part of your routine so it feels natural and enjoyable, not forced.
  • Start small for big results: You don’t have to overhaul everything at once. Start by adding one or two healthy habits to your routine. Maybe it’s taking a quick walk after lunch or adding an extra serving of vegetables to your dinner. These small changes add up over time and help you build a lifestyle that works for you.

Is it true that GLP-1s can cause you to lose muscle mass?

Losing weight is a focus for many people, but preserving muscle along the way is just as important, says Dr Adonis. “Up to 40% of the weight loss while using GLP-1 agonists can be muscle, so it’s important to optimize your protein intake and incorporate strength training to build and maintain muscle mass,” he explains. Take proactive steps to protect your muscle mass and support your overall health during weight loss. Here’s what we recommend:

  • Prioritize protein: Protein helps you build and preserve muscle. Include lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, beans, or lentils in your meals and snacks. These foods support muscle repair and maintenance while keeping you full and satisfied. Aim to spread your protein intake evenly throughout the day to maximize its benefits. Learn more about the importance of protein.
  • Make strength training part of your routine: Adding strength training exercises to your weekly routine can help preserve muscle while you lose weight. And you don’t need to pump iron if you don’t want to. Bodyweight exercises like squats and push-ups or using resistance bands are also excellent options. Just two or three sessions a week can make a huge difference in maintaining strength and muscle mass.
  • Your GLP-1 Companion can help: Noom’s GLP-1 Companion can guide you through this process. It will provide a minimum amount of protein to hit and help you track it daily. It also has our Muscle Defense™ program with strength training exercises for every level. 

Combining smart nutrition, regular strength training, and the right tools can protect your muscles and feel stronger as you work toward your weight loss goals.

How can I manage the side effects of Ozempic or another GLP-1 medication?

Being aware of the potential side effects and knowing how to manage them is an important part of taking a GLP-1. “Managing side effects is a common concern for many patients,” says Dr. Adonis. “While mild side effects like nausea may occur initially, they often subside with time. Staying hydrated, eating smaller, more frequent meals, and avoiding trigger foods may help alleviate discomfort. Here’s a look at the most frequent side effects of the most popular GLP-1 medications: Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Zepbound®, Mounjaro®, Noom GLP-1Rx compounded semaglutide.

It is essential to communicate any persistent or severe side effects with your healthcare team. Here are some more ways to keep side effects to a minimum:

  • Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day can help reduce nausea and support your overall well-being. The problem? Sometimes, using a GLP-1 will make you less thirsty. Be sure to use Noom’s water-tracking tool to make sure you’re staying on top of your hydration needs. We recommend 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, but you may need more if you’re active. 
  • Eat smaller, frequent meals: GLP-1s slow your digestion, and eating large portions can make you feel a little nauseous. Smaller portions throughout the day can work wonders in easing nausea and keeping your energy levels steady. Noom’s food-logging feature can help you plan and track meals that align with your treatment and nutritional goals.
  • Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods may worsen discomfort, so it’s important to identify and avoid them. Everyone’s body reacts differently, so it helps to track what you eat and how it makes you feel. Here are some foods that tend to cause problems:
    • Greasy or fried foods: These can be hard to digest and may increase nausea.
    • Spicy foods: Intense spices can irritate the stomach.
    • Highly processed or sugary foods: These can cause blood sugar spikes and may not sit well with your stomach.
    • Carbonated beverages: The bubbles can lead to bloating and make nausea worse.
  • Communicate with your clinician: If side effects persist or worsen, speak with your healthcare team. They can provide tailored advice or adjust your treatment plan as needed. Noom’s GLP-1 Companion can also support you by offering tips for managing side effects.

How do I maintain a consistent schedule while taking a GLP-1?

Making sure you take your medication consistently and accurately is vital for success. “My main suggestions for consistency include establishing a routine, setting reminders, and openly discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider,” says Dr. Adonis. Here are some ways to take your medication regularly and correctly: 

  • Create a routine: Incorporating your medication into your weekly habits makes it easier to remember. Most GLP-1s are taken once a week, so keep them to the same day and try pairing them with an activity you already do. 
  • Use tools to help: Alarms, medication apps, or even a simple journal can help you stick to your routine. With Noom’s habit-tracking tools, you can set reminders and log your progress to stay on track.
  • Rotate injection sites to reduce any reactions: Up to half of the people who use GLP-1s can experience an injection-site reaction like itching, redness, or swelling. Be sure to change up where you inject each week to give your skin time to heal. These are usually mild, but be sure to contact your clinician if something doesn’t seem right.
  • Keep communication open with your clinician: Your clinician is your best resource for addressing concerns or adjusting your treatment plan. If you get your medication through Noom Med, your clinician is always just one message away. 

By building these habits and using Noom’s features to support your routine, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success with your GLP-1 treatment.

Take a smarter approach to weight loss with Noom

GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic® are powerful tools for weight loss, but lasting success comes from meaningful lifestyle changes. By setting realistic goals, embracing healthy lifestyle changes, and addressing challenges like muscle loss or side effects, you can maximize the benefits of these medications. With guidance from experts like Dr. Adonis and support from Noom, you can create sustainable habits that improve your overall health and well-being. Take the first step today and see how small changes can lead to lasting success.

If you’re getting your medication through your doctor, don’t forget to use Noom’s GLP-1 Companion. It provides tips on proper nutrition, helps you design a resistance training program to maintain muscle, and allows you to track side effects. Plus, you’ll gain access to a supportive community of people on the same journey.

High-quality meds. Powerful psychology-based weight loss.

  • Starting at $149/month
  • Meds to your door in 7 days
  • 100% online access to coaches and doctors
  • Backed by Noom's award winning behavior change program

See if you qualify

Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.

Still unsure if GLP-1 treatment is right for you? See if you qualify for Noom Med. Our clinicians can walk you through all available treatment options and prescribe the right medication for you if needed. If cost is a concern, they can also help you explore compounded semaglutide* through Noom GLP-1Rx. It has the same active ingredient as Ozempic® and Wegovy® but could cost you significantly less. You will pay $149 for the first month, which includes medication and the full Noom Med program, including access to a clinician and lessons, trackers, and recipes to help you reach your goals. See what you get with Noom Med and discover all the ways Noom can support your path to wellness.

*Compounded semaglutide available on the Noom platform is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.

Note: Ozempic® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.