A Deeper Dive Into Glp-1’s – A New Healthcare Tool For Weight Loss
Jake Robinson MD
As we head toward the end of 2025, it’s likely that you or someone you know has gone on, or at least thought about going on, GLP-1 medications for weight loss. These drugs include popular brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Victoza. They’ve become nearly impossible to miss—advertised on social media, television and in print. Most of the ads focus on weight loss, often with fine print disclaimers about other effects. Let’s take a closer look at how these medications work, their benefits and their drawbacks.
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like-peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in the intestines after you eat. It helps you feel full and slows digestion. When scientists discovered this, they theorized that mimicking GLP-1 in the body could help people eat less without the constant hunger that usually comes with dieting. That idea became the foundation for the modern GLP-1 medication industry.
These drugs essentially trick your body into feeling satisfied sooner. In doing so, they can help people consume fewer calories and lose weight. For many, the results are impressive. Compared to traditional calorie-counting diets, GLP-1s tend to make the process easier because patients report far fewer cravings. In fact, some say they become repulsed by their previous portion sizes or old eating habits. By changing how the brain perceives food, these medications can make it easier to change behavior and maintain healthier choices. This mental shift often makes all the difference in long-term success.
Of course, the question everyone asks is, “How much weight can I expect to lose?” Studies show that people typically lose around 10% of their initial body weight on these drugs. Results vary by medication and lifestyle, but consistent findings show not only weight loss, but also improvements in blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes. Because of multiple benefits, the FDA approved several GLP-1 medications for both diabetes and obesity, and many insurance plans have started covering them to increase affordability.
However, these medications come with side effects that deserve careful attention. I’ve had patients who were thrilled with their progress but still chose to stop taking GLP-1s because of nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. These symptoms often improve with time, but they can be severe enough to discourage continued use. Research shows that about one in three people stop taking GLP-1s within the first year, and about half stop after one year. Once the medication is discontinued, appetite typically returns to previous levels, and some or all of the lost weight may return.
Another challenge is that appetite suppression can make eating less enjoyable. For many people, food is a source of comfort and joy. Personally, I compare it to my recurring nightmare that the state fair runs out of Sweet Martha’s cookies—something that would take away one of the little joys of summer.
It’s also worth remembering that GLP-1 medications are most effective when paired with a healthy lifestyle. Eating balanced meals, exercising regularly, and getting good sleep all help enhance and maintain the benefits. The patients who succeed long term are those who use their time on these medications to develop lasting habits that support health even after they stop taking the injections.
GLP-1 medicines are transforming how people approach weight loss and diabetes management. They can improve blood sugar, lower cardiovascular risk, and support sustainable weight control. Still, they work best when used safely, under the guidance of a healthcare provider, and as part of a comprehensive approach to wellness. These medications are not shortcuts, but they can be powerful tools—helping many people regain control of their health and their future.
Dr. Robinson is a physician at Allina Health United Family Physicians, 233 Grand Ave, St. Paul, 55102, 651-241-5200.
