Medical weight management, explained clearly.

A plain-language guide to GLP-1 medications: what they are, how they work, what “compounded” means, the side effects to know about, and what treatment looks like with a licensed clinician.

Updated October 16, 2026

This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician who reviews your health history can decide whether a treatment is right for you.

What GLP-1 medications are

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your body naturally releases after eating. It plays a role in appetite, how quickly your stomach empties, and how your body manages blood sugar.

GLP-1 medications are designed to act on the same receptors as this hormone. Two active ingredients are commonly discussed for weight management:

Semaglutide

Acts on GLP-1 receptors. It is typically given as a once-weekly injection, with the dose increased gradually over time.

Tirzepatide

Acts on two hormone receptors, GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1. It is also typically given once weekly, with gradual dose increases.

FDA-approved medications containing each of these ingredients are available for chronic weight management. Medication works best as one part of a broader plan that includes nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and regular follow-up with your care team.

Potential benefits and what the research shows

People usually look into GLP-1 medications for help with appetite, weight and related health markers. Here is what large clinical trials of the FDA-approved medications have shown, alongside diet and exercise counseling:

Appetite and cravings. Many people feel full sooner, have fewer cravings, and think about food less often, which can make healthier eating easier to sustain.
Weight loss. In trials, adults taking semaglutide 2.4 mg lost an average of about 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Adults taking the highest dose of tirzepatide lost an average of about 21% over 72 weeks.
Metabolic health. Trials also showed improvements in measures like blood sugar, blood pressure and waist size.
Heart health. In a large trial of adults with heart disease and overweight or obesity, FDA-approved semaglutide lowered the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

Results from trials are not a promise These are averages from studies of FDA-approved medications. Compounded medications were not studied in these trials, and your results may differ. Some people lose less weight, and some stop because of side effects.

Wondering how the two compare? Read our semaglutide vs. tirzepatide comparison.

Compounded vs. FDA-approved medications

A compounded medication is prepared by a licensed pharmacy for an individual patient, based on a prescription. Sequence offers compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide when a licensed clinician determines it is appropriate. Here is what that means for you:

FDA-approved medications

Reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, and manufacturing quality before sale
Made by the manufacturer named on the label
Come with FDA-approved prescribing information

Compounded medications

Not FDA-approved. The FDA does not evaluate them for safety, effectiveness, or quality
Not the same as, and not a generic version of, any FDA-approved product
Prepared by a state-licensed pharmacy for an individual patient's prescription

Who prepares your medication Sequence is a healthcare technology platform. It is not a pharmacy and does not make medications. If a clinician prescribes treatment, your medication is prepared and dispensed by Rx Ave, a licensed U.S. pharmacy, and its label identifies the pharmacy that prepared it.

The FDA advises that compounded drugs should be used only when a patient's medical needs cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug. Your clinician can talk with you about FDA-approved options and whether a compounded medication is appropriate for your situation.

Who treatment may be considered for

FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight management are intended for adults with obesity, or adults who are overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition. A clinician considers many factors, including:

Your weight history and body mass index (BMI)
Other health conditions, such as blood pressure, blood sugar, or cholesterol concerns
Current medications and supplements
Past treatments and how you responded to them
Your goals and preferences

Tell your clinician if any of these apply to you You or a family member have had medullary thyroid cancer, or you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. You have had pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems, diabetic eye disease, severe stomach or digestion problems, or depression or thoughts of self-harm. You take insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar. Some of these may mean GLP-1 medications are not right for you.

What to expect during treatment

Complete your health intake. Share your health history, medications, allergies, and goals. It takes about ten minutes.
A licensed clinician reviews it. They may ask follow-up questions or request lab work, then decide with you whether treatment is appropriate. Completing an intake does not guarantee a prescription.
If prescribed, start at a low dose. Doses are usually increased gradually over several weeks, which can help your body adjust and reduce side effects.
Check in regularly. Your clinician monitors how you are feeling, any side effects, and your progress, and adjusts your plan as needed.

Everyone responds differently, and no one can promise a specific result. Some people change doses, pause, or switch treatments along the way, and that is a normal part of care.

Side effects and safety

Common side effects

The most common side effects are digestive: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and decreased appetite. They are often most noticeable when starting or increasing a dose. Let your clinician know if they are hard to manage.

Serious risks to know about

Possible thyroid tumors. In studies in rodents, these medicines caused thyroid C-cell tumors, including cancer. It is not known whether they cause these tumors in people. Tell your clinician about a lump or swelling in your neck, trouble swallowing, hoarseness, or shortness of breath.
Pancreatitis. Seek care right away for severe stomach pain that does not go away, with or without vomiting.
Gallbladder problems, including gallstones.
Low blood sugar, especially if you also take insulin or certain diabetes medications.
Kidney problems, which can be worsened by dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea.
Serious allergic reactions. Seek emergency care for swelling of the face, lips, or throat, or trouble breathing.
Mood changes. Tell your clinician about new or worsening depression, unusual changes in mood, or thoughts of self-harm.

Using compounded medication safely

Measure doses carefully. The FDA has received reports of dosing errors with compounded injectable GLP-1s, often from mixing up units and milliliters. Follow your instructions exactly and ask your care team if anything is unclear.
Never change your dose on your own.
Store medication as directed, usually refrigerated. If a package arrives warm or damaged, contact us before using it.
Check the label. It should name the pharmacy that prepared it. Report anything that looks unusual.

This is not a complete list. Your clinician and pharmacist will review risks with you. Sequence is not for emergencies. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.

Frequently asked questions

Is compounded semaglutide the same as a brand-name medication?

No. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and are not the same as, or generic versions of, any FDA-approved product. The FDA does not evaluate compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or quality.

How much weight will I lose?

No one can promise a specific result. Response varies from person to person, and medication is one part of a plan that also includes nutrition, activity, sleep, and follow-up with a clinician.

How long will I need to take it?

It depends on your goals, how you respond, and your clinician's judgment. You will review your plan together at your check-ins.

What happens if I stop?

Weight regain after stopping is common. Talk with your clinician before stopping or changing your dose so you can plan next steps together.

Do I need lab work?

Sometimes. Depending on your health history, your clinician may request lab work or other information before deciding whether treatment is appropriate.

Can I take a GLP-1 medication if I am pregnant or planning a pregnancy?

Tell your clinician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy. These medications are generally not recommended during pregnancy, and your clinician can advise you on timing.

Talk with a licensed clinician.

Complete a short health intake and a clinician licensed in your state will review it and decide with you whether treatment is appropriate.

Start your intake Completing an intake does not guarantee treatment. Prescriptions are issued only when a licensed provider determines they are clinically appropriate. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.