YOUR FIRST MONTH ON GLP-1s: WEEK-BY-WEEK
🎯 What to Expect
The first month is about adjustment, not results. Side effects peak in weeks 2-3, then improve. Most men lose 3-6 lbs in month one — but the real weight loss comes later. Focus on tolerating the medication and establishing habits.
BEFORE YOU START
Pre-Start Checklist
- Get baseline labs (testosterone, metabolic panel, A1C if diabetic)
- Take "before" measurements and photos
- Stock up on protein (shakes, Greek yogurt, lean meats)
- Get a food scale if you don't have one
- Clear your schedule for injection day (in case of nausea)
- Set a weekly reminder for injection day/time
- Have Zofran or ginger chews on hand for nausea
WEEK 1 THE STARTING DOSE
Semaglutide 0.25mg or Tirzepatide 2.5mg
What You'll Feel
- Mild appetite reduction (or none at all — that's normal)
- Possibly some mild nausea, especially days 1-3
- Maybe slight fatigue as your body adjusts
- Some men feel nothing at all on starting dose
What to Do
- Take your injection at the same time each week
- Eat smaller portions even if appetite hasn't changed
- Prioritize protein at every meal (30g minimum)
- Stay hydrated — more water than you think you need
💡 Pro Tip: Injection Timing
Many men inject Friday evening so any side effects hit over the weekend. Find what works for your schedule.
WEEK 2 SIDE EFFECTS EMERGE
Still on starting dose
What You'll Feel
- Appetite suppression typically kicks in stronger
- GI side effects often peak (nausea, constipation, or both)
- Food may seem less appealing — this is the drug working
- You might notice you're thinking about food less
What to Do
- Eat even when not hungry — don't skip meals entirely
- Keep portions small (half your normal plate)
- Avoid greasy, fatty, or heavy foods
- Take a fiber supplement if constipation starts
💡 The Volume Rule
GLP-1s slow stomach emptying. Eating large volumes makes you feel terrible. Eat half as much, twice as often.
WEEK 3 THE ADJUSTMENT PEAK
Side effects often strongest here
What You'll Feel
- This is typically the hardest week for side effects
- Strong appetite suppression — may struggle to eat enough
- Energy may be low if you're not eating enough protein
What to Do
- Protein shakes are your friend when solid food is hard
- Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, eggs are easy proteins
- Ginger (tea, chews, supplements) helps with nausea
- Light walking can help with GI symptoms
⚠️ Don't Power Through Severe Symptoms
Mild discomfort is expected. But if you're vomiting multiple times daily or can't keep fluids down, contact your provider.
WEEK 4 STABILIZATION
Preparing for dose increase
What You'll Feel
- Side effects typically improving
- Body adapting to the medication
- Appetite suppression more manageable
- Weight loss beginning to show (3-6 lbs typical)
What to Do
- Assess your tolerance — are you ready to increase?
- If side effects are still rough, ask about staying at current dose
- Establish your protein routine before dose increase
- Take progress photos and measurements
MONTH 1 BY THE NUMBERS
- Weight loss: 3-6 lbs (1-2% body weight) — some more, some less
- Appetite: Noticeably reduced in most men
- Side effects: Should be manageable by end of month 1
- Testosterone: Too early — check at 6-12 months
Month 1 is not representative. Real transformation happens months 2-6.
COMMON FIRST-MONTH MISTAKES
- Not eating enough protein. Need 1.6-2.3g per kg daily. Most men undereat.
- Skipping meals entirely. Small, protein-rich meals beat skipping food.
- Expecting immediate results. GLP-1s work over months, not days.
- Stopping resistance training. Keep lifting to preserve muscle.
- Increasing dose too fast. If side effects are severe, stay at current dose longer.
READY TO START?
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