*Content reviewed by HotPause Health medical advisor and obesity medicine specialist, Dr. Sejal Desai

The Ultimate Guide to GLP-1 Medications

We’ve all been hearing buzz about medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, or Mounjaro. If you  haven’t, we’d like to know that remote tropical island you’re living on. Drop us a pin.

This class of drugs, GLP-1 receptor agonists, is making waves not just for managing diabetes, but for weight loss and potentially more. But the choices can feel overwhelming. Let’s break it down clearly, factually, and without the jargon overload.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone your body naturally produces when you eat. It helps:

• Control blood sugar by triggering insulin release
• Slow digestion, making you feel fuller, longer
• Lower glucose production in your liver

Medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic this hormone, creating similar effects but lasting longer. The results? Better blood sugar control and, often, weight loss.

Meet Some of the Most Common GLP-1s

Let’s walk through each of the key medications, what they’re approved for, and their unique features.

1. Ozempic (Semaglutide)

Who it’s for: Adults with Type 2 diabetes
Frequency: Weekly injection
Key benefits:

• Excellent for managing blood sugar
• Reduces heart-related risks if you have cardiovascular disease
• Can help prevent kidney complications
• Weight loss is a common side effect (8-10 lbs in trials), but not its main purpose

2. Rybelsus (Semaglutide, Oral)

Who it’s for: Adults with Type 2 diabetes who prefer not to inject
Frequency: Daily oral tablet
Key benefits:

• Currently the only oral GLP-1 available
• Effective for blood sugar control; doesn’t yet offer the same cardiovascular benefits as injected versions

3. Wegovy (Semaglutide for Weight Loss)

Who it’s for: Adults and adolescents (12+) who are obese or overweight with health conditions
Frequency: Weekly injection
Key benefits:

• Specifically approved for weight loss (average 15% body weight loss)
• Proven heart-health benefits for people with heart disease

4. Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Who it’s for: Adults with Type 2 diabetes
Frequency: Weekly injection
Key benefits:

• Belongs to a new class (GLP-1/GIP dual agonist)
• Highly effective blood sugar control
• Significant weight loss, superior to Ozempic in trials
• Under investigation for heart benefits

5. Zepbound (Tirzepatide for Weight Loss)

Who it’s for: Adults who are obese or overweight with other health issues; also approved for sleep apnea
Frequency: Weekly injection
Key benefits:

• Biggest weight loss potential (up to ~21% in trials)
• Higher weight loss than Wegovy in direct comparisons
• Not yet approved for adolescents

6. Compounded Versions

With the growing popularity of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, you may have heard about compounded or pharmacy-made versions being offered as lower-cost or easier-to-access alternatives. While these compounded medications contain similar active ingredients (such as semaglutide), they aren’t the same as the FDA-approved brand-name drugs. 

Because compounded formulations aren’t subject to the same rigorous safety and effectiveness testing, quality can vary widely. If you’re considering compounded GLP-1 treatments, it’s essential to discuss this option carefully with your healthcare provider, who can help ensure you’re making a safe and informed choice.

We Love This Chart From GoodRX

How to Choose the Right GLP-1 for You?

Here’s what matters when you’re choosing a GLP-1 medication:

• Your Health Goals:
  Are you looking to manage diabetes, encourage weight loss, or both?
• Cardiovascular & Kidney Health:
  Do you have heart disease or kidney issues? This is important to know because certain medications have extra protective benefits.
• Injection vs. Oral Medication:
  Don’t want to inject? Rybelsus might be your go-to.
• How Often You Take It:
  Once weekly is convenient. Daily injections may require more planning.
• Insurance Coverage & Cost:
  Coverage varies widely; some medications have generics to reduce cost.
• Side Effects & Tolerance:
  Everyone reacts differently. Your provider may switch meds if side effects are an issue.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of GLP-1s in Menopause

While GLP-1s offer significant benefits, they are not without risks. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation. More serious but rare side effects can include gallbladder and pancreatic disease. It’s also crucial to note that rapid weight loss with or without the use of GLP-1s can exacerbate the loss of muscle mass and bone density, already a concern during menopause.

It’s important to work with a professional to help proactively mitigate muscle and bone density loss. This is especially important for women in perimenopause and menopause and risk of osteoporosis. Shockingly, studies also show that 50% of women over the age of 50 will break a bone because of this disease [1]. 80% of Americans with osteoporosis are women. [2] Maintaining muscle mass is very important for proactive prevention of osteoporosis.

Bottom Line from HotPause Health

Navigating menopause and midlife means staying informed and proactive about your health options. GLP-1 medications are powerful tools, whether your goals are blood sugar management, weight loss, or better overall health. Always partner with your provider to decide which medication aligns best with your lifestyle, goals, and medical needs.

At HotPause Health, we believe every woman deserves the best support through every phase of her health journey. You’re not alone—we’ve got your back (and your hormones).

References

[1] Coughlan T, Dockery F. Osteoporosis and fracture risk in older people. Clin Med (Lond). 2014 Apr;14(2):187-91. doi: 10.7861/clinmedicine.14-2-187. PMID: 24715132; PMCID: PMC4953292.

[2] McPhee C, Aninye IO, Horan L. Recommendations for Improving Women’s Bone Health Throughout the Lifespan. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2022 Dec;31(12):1671-1676. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2022.0361. Epub 2022 Nov 7. PMID: 36346282; PMCID: PMC9805882.