GLP-1s have become a popular option for people struggling with weight and weight loss. However, despite the popularity of these medications, myths about them still linger on social media and mainstream dialogue. Worries about cancer, “Ozempic face,” and muscle loss are common among patients considering GLP-1s for their weight, with people wondering if the costs outweigh the potential benefits.
However, current data indicate that when properly utilized within a larger health plan, GLP-1s are a safe and effective tool for people struggling with obesity and obesity- related issues.
Check out the most common misconceptions about GLP-1s and the real facts behind them:
Myth #1: GLP-1s are a “magic pill” for weight loss.
Clinical trials have demonstrated that meaningful and sustained weight loss for patients occurs when paired with lifestyle changes such as increased exercise and diet modifications. Without these changes, patients risk regaining the weight if they choose to stop taking the medication.
Even with these lifestyle changes, GLP-1 weight loss tends to be gradual, with a fairly rapid decrease followed by a plateau. GLP-1s are helpful tools, but they should not be treated as a replacement for a healthy lifestyle.
Myth #2: GLP-1s are only for people with Type 2 diabetes.
While GLP-1s were originally developed to help patients with Type 2 diabetes, medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are being used to treat patients dealing with a range of obesity related issues, such as hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and heart disease. It is important to discuss your concerns with your clinician so they can determine whether your health conditions qualify you for GLP-1s.
Myth #3: People on GLP-1s will immediately regain all the weight and lose the benefits once they stop treatment.
While patients on GLP-1s often revert to a previous baseline, there is variability within patient response. Patients who utilize healthy lifestyle habits, such as a high-protein diet and consistent exercise, tend to maintain the benefits of GLP-1 usage. However, for many patients, obesity is a chronic condition, so many take GLP-1s as a long-term medication, similar to blood pressure medications.
Myth #4: GLP-1s cause extreme muscle loss.
Any rapid weight loss, whether from diet, surgery, or medication, can reduce fat and lean muscle. GLP-1s do not “melt muscle.” In fact, the lean muscle mass lost is comparable to that of other methods involving calorie restriction. Conditions like “Ozempic face” are more generally due to rapid overall volume loss rather than specifically GLP-1s.
Patients concerned by this effect should talk to their physician about mitigation strategies to help strengthen and preserve muscle, such as a high-protein diet, resistance training, and strength exercises.
Myth #5: GLP-1 usage has side effects that are either unbearable or completely harmless.
While GLP-1s are safe to use, they can have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. However, these symptoms are usually moderate, dose-related, and improve over time. More serious risks are rare. Patients are also generally concerned about side effects like muscle loss. While GLP-1 use can lead to some muscle loss, this effect can be mitigated with proper lifestyle management. Others claim it can worsen mental issues and even lead to suicidal ideation, but this claim is not supported by current data. However, physicians should regularly monitor patients for physical and emotional changes and adjust the patient’s regimen accordingly.
Overall, GLP-1s are a safe and effective treatment, but patients should inform their physician of any side effects they may be experiencing.
Myth #6: All GLP-1s are the same.
GLP-1 medications differ in aspects like dosing, patient efficacy, and specific approvals. Their differences allow physicians to specialize the medication type and dosage frequency for each patient’s individual needs and goals.
Myth #7: GLP-1s cause thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or other severe health risks.
The most recent large human studies, meta-analyses, and registries show no consistent causal increase in thyroid cancer risk in people on GLP-1s, and no credible evidence shows links between increased pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer. While some studies have noted a moderate increase in gallbladder issues, these issues result more from rapid weight loss than from something specific to GLP-1s. The current evidence shows that the benefits of GLP-1s for cardiovascular health and other obesity-related issues outweigh the risks.
GLP-1s at Rockwell
GLP-1s are a powerful tool available for people struggling with their weight. The available data indicate that many of the fears around GLP-1s are not supported by evidence. While concerns such as muscle loss and side effects are legitimate, with appropriate lifestyle adjustments and dosage, the overall benefits can far exceed the disadvantages.
At Rockwell, we believe in providing patients with all the tools they need to succeed in their weight loss journey. That is why we provide a team to work with you to draw a personalized GLP-1 dosage plan, nutritional recommendations, and exercise routine to maximize your chances of success. Additionally, regular check-ins with your provider give you the chance to voice any concerns you may have about the treatment.
If you want to learn more about GLP-1s at Rockwell, call and set up an appointment with your provider. We are excited to help you discover weight loss that actually works for you!