The Complete Guide to Successful Weight Loss with GLP-1 Medications
Track your GLP-1 journey with injection schedule, weight, meals, exercise, and goals. The tracker calculates your calorie deficit and shows if your weight loss is on target!
Log your first injection above to see your schedule!
Proper injection technique is crucial for comfort and medication effectiveness. Rotate sites weekly to prevent lipodystrophy and maintain consistent absorption.
Best for: Fastest absorption
Inject 2 inches away from belly button. Most popular site with consistent absorption. Pinch 1-2 inches of skin and inject at 90° angle.
Best for: Easy self-injection
Upper outer thigh, middle third. Good absorption. Great for those uncomfortable with stomach injections. Rotate between left and right.
Best for: Less sensitive area
Back of upper arm, fatty area. May need assistance. Good alternative when rotating sites. Less common bruising.
Best for: Larger fatty area
Upper outer quadrant. Excellent absorption, may need mirror or assistance. Great for those with more body fat in this area.
| Side Effect | How to Manage | When to Worry |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea (Most Common) |
• Eat smaller meals more frequently • Avoid fatty, greasy, spicy foods • Ginger tea or ginger chews • Stay upright after eating (30 min) • Anti-nausea meds if severe (consult doctor) |
If persistent beyond week 3-4 of same dose, or severe vomiting preventing hydration |
| Constipation |
• Increase fiber (25-30g daily) • Drink 80+ oz water daily • Magnesium supplement (400mg) • Prune juice or psyllium husk • Regular movement/exercise |
No bowel movement for 5+ days, or severe abdominal pain |
| Diarrhea |
• Stay hydrated with electrolytes • BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) • Avoid dairy temporarily • Probiotics may help • Reduce fat intake |
If lasts >3 days, blood in stool, or signs of dehydration |
| Fatigue |
• Ensure adequate protein (80-100g/day) • Check you're eating enough calories • B-complex vitamins • Prioritize sleep (7-9 hours) • Light exercise can boost energy |
Extreme exhaustion that prevents daily activities |
| Acid Reflux/Heartburn |
• Elevate head while sleeping • Avoid eating 3 hours before bed • Smaller, more frequent meals • Avoid trigger foods (citrus, tomato, spicy) • OTC antacids if needed |
Severe chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or persistent despite management |
| Injection Site Reactions |
• Rotate sites weekly • Let medication reach room temp • Ice before injection if needed • Don't rub after injecting • Ensure proper injection technique |
Severe redness, swelling, warmth (signs of infection) |
Stopping GLP-1 abruptly can lead to rapid weight regain. A strategic weaning plan helps maintain your results long-term.
Stay at your current effective dose while solidifying healthy habits. This is not the time to wean - use this time to practice maintenance without medication support mentally.
Drop to next lower dose. Monitor weight closely (should stay stable ±2-3 lbs). If weight increases >5 lbs, stay at this dose longer. Focus on protein intake and exercise consistency.
Drop to half your original maintenance dose. Appetite will increase - this is where strong habits matter. Track food meticulously. Increase exercise by 10-20% if possible.
Move to the lowest available dose. Some may stay here long-term for maintenance. Weight may fluctuate 3-5 lbs - this is normal. Continue tracking everything.
Inject lowest dose every 10-14 days instead of weekly. Assess hunger, energy, and weight stability. This eases the transition psychologically.
Complete cessation. First 3 months are critical - weight regain risk is highest. Continue tracking weight weekly and food daily for at least 6 months. Have a "restart plan" if weight increases >10 lbs.
GLP-1 medications are powerful tools, but YOUR commitment to healthy habits is what creates lasting transformation. Use this tracker daily, follow the tips above, and trust the process. Weight loss isn't linear - there will be ups and downs - but consistency always wins. Your future self will thank you for starting today! 💪