It’s no surprise that drugs like semaglutide (known as Wegovy and Ozempic) and tirzepatide (branded as Monjouro and Zepbound) were among the top 10 most popular medications in the U.S. in 2023. These medications have been hailed as breakthrough treatments for diabetes and obesity. However, as their use has skyrocketed, so have myths and misinformation about them.
“Each of these drugs is prescribed for different health goals, and like any medication, they come with potential risks that patients need to understand to make informed choices with their healthcare providers,” explains HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D., pharmacist and clinical consultant for BuzzRx. In this article, we’ll address and debunk the eight most common myths about GLP-1 drugs, including whether there’s an effective Ozempic alternative you should know about.
Myth: You Don’t Need to Eat a Healthy Diet If You’re Taking a GLP-1 Drug
There’s another common misconception that you can eat whatever you want while taking a GLP-1 drug. However, the label—and experts—suggest otherwise. Dr. Janese Laster points out that these medications aren’t magical solutions, despite what you might see on social media. Success with GLP-1 drugs still requires making lifestyle and diet changes. If a patient isn’t losing weight as expected, nonadherence to dietary recommendations is often a factor.
Dr. Glickman recommends following a plant-forward or Mediterranean-style diet. This type of diet focuses on healthy fats, lean and plant-based proteins, and plenty of leafy greens while avoiding ultra-processed and high-sugar foods and drinks. Eating well isn’t just about boosting your weight loss; it’s also crucial to minimizing side effects. Since GLP-1 drugs increase insulin production, slow stomach emptying, and make you feel full longer, eating unhealthy foods or large portions can lead to unpleasant gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, as Ngo-Hamilton explains.
Myth: Taking a GLP-1 Drug Guarantees Significant Weight Loss
Let’s clear up a common myth: “Nothing guarantees weight loss,” says Dr. Mir Ali, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center. While it’s true that GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic have shown promising results in helping people lose weight, it’s not a guaranteed outcome. These medications work by slowing down how quickly your stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer, which can help with weight loss.
In clinical trials, people who took weekly doses of 2.4 mg of semaglutide lost a significant amount of weight within 68 weeks. Similarly, a 72-week study on tirzepatide found that 91% of participants taking the highest 15 mg dose saw at least a 5% reduction in their body weight, with over half losing 20% of their body weight—impressive numbers, but not a sure thing for everyone.
Doctors usually recommend patience with these medications, but they do have guidelines. Dr. Janese Laster, a board-certified specialist in internal medicine, gastroenterology, obesity medicine, and nutrition, explains that the FDA expects patients to lose at least 5% of their total body weight within 12 weeks of starting these drugs. If that doesn’t happen, your healthcare provider might explore factors like dosage, how you’re taking the medication, your diet, and your exercise routine.
Myth: Side Effects Are Unbearable (or No Big Deal)
When it comes to side effects from GLP-1 drugs, the experience can vary widely from person to person. What might be “unbearable” for one person could be manageable for another. As HaVy Ngo-Hamilton, Pharm.D., explains, the severity of side effects is subjective, and everyone’s tolerance for discomfort is different.
Common side effects of GLP-1 drugs include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The good news is that these symptoms are usually temporary and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication. That’s why healthcare providers gradually increase the dosage over time, says Dr. Mir Ali. If side effects Ozempic do become an issue, there are medications available to help manage them. Dr. Ali notes that it’s rare for someone to stop taking a GLP-1 drug because of side effects.
Myth: Using Compounded GLP-1 Drugs Is Just as Safe as Brand-Name Medications
Another myth worth debunking is the idea that compounded GLP-1 drugs are just as safe as the brand-name versions. While compounded drugs can be necessary for patients who need access to a medication that’s in short supply or unavailable commercially, they come with some risks. As Ngo-Hamilton explains, compounded drugs are made by specialty pharmacies that mix active ingredients themselves, and unlike brand-name medications, they aren’t tested for safety and efficacy according to FDA standards. Dr. Ali advises discussing the use of compounded GLP-1 drugs with your healthcare provider. They can guide you on whether it’s a safe option and help you find a reputable pharmacy. Be cautious about getting medications through social media or questionable online sources, as you might end up with something ineffective or even harmful.
Myth: All GLP-1 Drugs Are the Same
While GLP-1 drugs are similar, they’re not identical. Even Ozempic and Wegovy, both forms of semaglutide, have some key differences. “Ozempic and Wegovy both stimulate the GLP-1 receptor to reduce appetite and slow down stomach emptying,” explains Dr. Mir Ali. “However, Ozempic is primarily used for diabetes, while Wegovy is designed for weight loss.” Additionally, the maximum weekly dose for Ozempic is 2.0 mg, while Wegovy’s is slightly higher at 2.4 mg.
Zepbound and Mounjaro are also often compared. They both have the same weekly dose of 15 mg but are used for different purposes: Zepbound for weight management and Mounjaro for diabetes treatment. While they’re different from semaglutide, they share similarities in how they work. “Mounjaro and Zepbound are both forms of tirzepatide, which affects two receptors, GLP-1 and GIP, to reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying,” Ali adds.
Myth: Zepbound Is “Better” Than Wegovy for Weight Loss
There’s some buzz about Zepbound being more effective for weight loss than Wegovy, but it’s not that simple. Some studies, like the SURMOUNT-3 and SURMOUNT-4 trials conducted by Eli Lilly, suggest that people taking tirzepatide (Zepbound) lost more weight—over 26% of their body weight in 84 weeks—compared to the 15% weight loss seen in those taking Wegovy over 68 weeks. However, it’s important to note that the timeframes in these trials were different, and individual experiences can vary. Dr. Michael Glickman points out that not every patient follows the average weight loss curve. Some might respond better to one drug than another, and for others, the response could be unpredictable.
Conclusion
There are a lot of misconceptions out there about GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. While these medications can help with weight loss, they don’t work the same for everyone. It’s also important to remember that diet and exercise are still vital parts of achieving lasting weight loss, even when taking a GLP-1 drug. Before starting on one of these medications, make sure to have a conversation with your healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and benefits. If you’re exploring cost-effective options, you might also consider looking into how to buy Ozempic from Canada, where prices can sometimes be lower. This could be a valuable step in managing both your health and your budget.
