What This Page Covers
This is your complete reference for tirzepatide/semaglutide treatment. It covers everything from starting treatment to long-term success.
One-Minute Summary
Your GLP-1 medication is a once-weekly injection that helps with weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. Start with the lowest dose, increase gradually as tolerated. Common side effects include nausea and digestive changes, which usually improve over time. Store refrigerated and inject on the same day each week.
Getting Started
Initial Consultation
Before starting treatment, you completed a consultation to confirm eligibility. This ensures the treatment is appropriate for your health profile.
Starter Dose
- Weeks 1-4: Lowest dose once weekly
- Purpose: Assess tolerance and minimize side effects
- Expectation: Minimal weight loss, focus on adjustment
Injection Basics
- Timing: Same day each week
- Method: Subcutaneous injection (under skin)
- Sites: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
- Rotation: Use different sites each week
Treatment Progression
Month 1-2: Adjustment Phase
- Focus on tolerating the medication
- Establish routine and injection technique
- Monitor side effects
- Don't expect dramatic weight loss yet
Month 3-6: Active Phase
- Side effects typically reduced
- Appetite changes more noticeable
- Steady weight loss begins
- Consider dose increases if needed
Month 6+: Maintenance Phase
- Treatment becomes routine
- Focus on long-term habits
- Plan for sustainability
- Consider maintenance strategies
Common Side Effects
Normal (Expected)
- Mild nausea, especially after meals
- Feeling full quickly
- Slight digestive changes
- Reduced interest in food
- Mild fatigue initially
Not Normal (Seek Medical Advice)
- Severe vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Complete inability to eat
- Severe diarrhea lasting more than 2-3 days
Storage and Handling
Refrigerated Storage
- Temperature: 2-8°C (36-46°F)
- Location: Main refrigerator compartment
- Position: Upright in original packaging
- Duration: Until expiration date
Room Temperature
- Duration: Up to 21 days maximum
- Temperature: Below 30°C (86°F)
- Use: Once removed from refrigeration
- Discard: After 21 days at room temperature
Missed Doses
If Less Than 4 Days Late
- Take the missed dose as soon as remembered
- Continue with regular schedule
- Don't double up doses
If More Than 4 Days Late
- Skip the missed dose
- Resume regular schedule
- Don't double up doses
- Contact support if concerned
When to Seek Medical Help
Immediate Medical Attention Needed
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty)
- Severe diarrhea
- Symptoms of low blood sugar (if diabetic)
Contact Your Doctor For
- Side effects that don't improve after 2-3 weeks
- Concerns about other medications
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Pregnancy planning
Long-Term Considerations
Maintenance Strategy
- Some people continue treatment long-term
- Others may cycle off after reaching goals
- Discuss options with your doctor
- Plan for sustainable habits
Coming Off Treatment
- Gradual reduction may be appropriate
- Focus on maintaining healthy habits
- Monitor for appetite changes
- Have a support plan ready
Medical Notice
This information is educational and does not replace medical advice. If symptoms are severe or concerning, seek medical care from a qualified medical professional.