GLP-1 Medications: More Than Just Weight Loss

Nargis Akhter
Aug 23, 2025
4 min read

Nargis Akhter RDN | 08-23-2025

How do they work?

Are they safe long-term?

What happens when I stop taking them?

How do I nourish my body while on them?

As a dietitian, I believe education is empowerment. These medications can be powerful tools—but they’re not magic. Patients deserve clarity, compassion, and practical strategies to support their journey.

How Do GLP-1 Medications Work?

GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound) mimic a hormone your body naturally produces in the gut. This hormone helps:

Slow down digestion so you feel full longer
Reduce appetite and food cravings
Improve insulin response and lower blood sugar levels

Some newer medications (like tirzepatide) also target a second hormone (GIP), which may enhance weight loss and metabolic benefits.

Are They Safe Long-Term?

GLP-1s have been used for over a decade in diabetes care, and newer data supports their use for weight management. However:

Most long-term studies are still ongoing
Common side effects include nausea, constipation, and fatigue
Rare risks include pancreatitis and thyroid tumors (seen in animal studies—not confirmed in humans)
They may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, like a history of medullary thyroid cancer

Regular monitoring and personalized care are key to safe use.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Them?

Many patients regain weight after stopping GLP-1 therapy—especially if lifestyle habits haven’t changed.

Without the medication:

Appetite and cravings often return
Blood sugar may rise again in people with diabetes
Emotional eating patterns may resurface

That’s why it’s essential to build sustainable habits alongside medication—so your progress doesn’t disappear when the prescription ends.

How Do I Nourish My Body While on Them?

Because GLP-1s reduce appetite, some patients unintentionally under-eat or miss key nutrients. Support your body by:

Prioritizing protein to protect muscle mass
Staying hydrated (especially if nausea or constipation hits)
Eating small, balanced meals with fiber and healthy fats
Avoiding ultra-processed foods that can worsen GI symptoms
Listening to hunger cues—even if they’re quieter than before

Cost & Coverage: What You Should Know

GLP-1 medications can be expensive—especially when prescribed for weight loss. Here’s what helps:

Ask your provider about prior authorization for insurance

To get insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications, your provider may need to submit a prior authorization—a formal request showing the medication is medically necessary. This often includes your diagnosis, BMI, related health conditions, and a history of previous treatments. It’s a key step in getting approval, especially if the medication is prescribed for weight loss rather than diabetes. Working closely with your provider and asking about this process can help avoid delays and improve your chances of coverage.

Check manufacturer websites for savings cards or coupons

Patients can often reduce out-of-pocket costs for GLP-1 medications by checking manufacturer websites for savings cards or coupons. Companies like Novo Nordisk (Ozempic, Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (Mounjaro, Zepbound) offer copay assistance programs for eligible individuals, especially those with commercial insurance. These savings cards can significantly lower monthly costs, but they typically don’t apply to Medicare or Medicaid plans. It’s worth visiting the official drug websites or platforms like GoodRx to explore current offers, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.

Explore compounding pharmacies (with caution and guidance)

Compounded GLP-1 medications may offer lower-cost access, but they come with serious risks. These versions are not FDA-approved, may contain altered chemical forms, and lack the safety testing of branded drugs. Legal action against some compounding pharmacies highlights concerns about misleading marketing and quality control. Patients should only consider compounded options under the guidance of a licensed provider and verify that the pharmacy meets strict regulatory standards.

Know that coverage varies widely by state, insurer, and diagnosis

Coverage for GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound can be highly inconsistent depending on where you live, which insurance plan you have, and why the medication is being prescribed. Some states have Medicaid programs that exclude weight-loss drugs entirely, while others may offer limited coverage under strict criteria. Commercial insurers often require a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes or a BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with a related condition like hypertension or sleep apnea) to approve the medication. Even then, coverage may be restricted to specific brands or dosages listed on the insurer’s formulary. Plans may also classify GLP-1s as specialty drugs, requiring higher copays or fulfillment through designated pharmacies. That’s why it’s essential to review your plan’s specific policies and work with your provider to submit thorough documentation, including a letter of medical necessity if needed

GLP-1 medication coverage across five states

State	Medicaid Coverage	State Employee Plan	Formulary Inclusion	Specialty Drug Classification
Texas	🟨 Yes	🔵 Yes	🟩 Yes	🔴 No
California	⬛ No	🔵 Yes	🟩 Yes	🔴 Yes
New York	🟨 Yes	⬛ No	🟩 Yes	🔴 No
Florida	⬛ No	🔵 Yes	⬛ No	🔴 Yes
Illinois	🟨 Yes	⬛ No	⬛ No	🔴 Yes

🟨 Medicaid Coverage

🔵 State Employee Health Plan Coverage

🟩 Included on State Formulary

🔴 Classified as Specialty Drug

⬛ No Coverage or Not Applicable

GLP-1s are not just reshaping treatment—they’re reshaping conversations. As dietitians, we have a unique opportunity to guide patients through this evolving landscape with nuance, empathy, and evidence-based care. Whether it’s addressing side effects, setting realistic expectations, or integrating mindful nutrition alongside medication, our role is more vital than ever. The future of weight and chronic disease management isn’t just pharmacological—it’s personal, and it starts with informed, compassionate support.