GLP-1 Medications: Science, Side Effects, and the ZenovaMD Advantage
GLP-1s: More Than a Trend
GLP-1 medications have made headlines for good reason. They help people lose 15–21% of their body weight, lower blood sugar, and even protect the heart. But while the science is strong, how these medications are prescribed matters just as much as the medication itself. Particularly for side effect management.
At ZenovaMD, we believe results last longest when treatment is personalized. That means tailoring medication format, dosing, and supportive therapies to your body — and making sure side effects don’t get in the way.
How GLP-1s Work
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your body makes after you eat, and it:
- Tells your brain you’re full
- Slows how quickly food leaves your stomach
- Helps your pancreas release insulin more effectively
Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic this hormone, helping patients feel satisfied sooner, reduce cravings, and stabilize energy.
Clinical Proof
- Semaglutide (Wegovy®): ~15% average body weight loss in 68 weeks (STEP-1 trial).
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound®): 16–21% average loss in 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1 trial).
- Heart protection: Semaglutide reduced major cardiac events by 20% in people with obesity and prior CVD (SELECT trial).
The ZenovaMD Difference
At ZenovaMD, we minimize side effects by personalizing titration and offering compounded blends that support gut health, energy, and recovery.
The Reality of Side Effects
Like all medications, GLP-1s have side effects, most often in the first few weeks or after a dose increase. Typical timelines from clinical studies:
- Nausea: ~8 days
- Vomiting: ~2 days
- Diarrhea: ~3 days
- Constipation: can persist ~35 days before easing
- Fatigue and headaches: usually short-lived
For many patients, these side effects fade on their own. But without guidance, they can feel discouraged enough to quit, and that’s where ZenovaMD is different.
How ZenovaMD Helps You Manage Side Effects
1. Personalized Titration
We don’t rush dosing. Every program is adjusted to your tolerance, whether you’re on macro or micro dosing. This reduces nausea, bloating, and other GI symptoms from the start.
2. Oral and Injectable Flexibility
Some patients tolerate injectables better, others prefer oral. We give you both options, and can switch routes if one causes too much discomfort.
3. Compounded Additives for Symptom Relief
Unlike standard prescriptions, ZenovaMD formulations are compounded with targeted ingredients that help reduce side effects and enhance whole-body health:
- B12: supports energy, red blood cell health, and reduces fatigue
- MIC (methionine–inositol–choline): supports liver health, fat metabolism, and digestion
- L-carnitine: boosts energy production and supports muscle recovery
- NAD+: replenishes cellular energy and helps combat GLP-1–related fatigue
These clinically proven additions make your program smoother and more sustainable.
4. Health Coaching Built-In
Your dedicated coach (2x per month, free) gives practical strategies like:
- Eating smaller, balanced meals to reduce nausea
- Hydration routines to support digestion and energy
- Exercise guidance to protect lean muscle
- Sleep optimization to counter fatigue
5. Ongoing Clinician Oversight
Regular check-ins mean we can adjust your dose or modify your formulation quickly if side effects appear — ensuring you don’t just “push through it” alone.
We don’t leave you on autopilot. If a side effect lingers, your clinician can adjust dosing, shift timing, or modify your compounded blend. That’s the difference between “pushing through it” and feeling supported.
Quick Checklist: When to Call Your Clinician
- If nausea or vomiting lasts more than 2 weeks
- If constipation or diarrhea is severe or persistent
- If you develop sudden abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
- If side effects interfere with daily life
The ZenovaMD Difference
- Full dosing and Micro Dosing Options: Strong therapeutic results or gentler maintenance, titrated to your needs.
- Oral and Injectable Choices: Choose what fits your lifestyle.
- Compounded Additives: Sleep, muscle, energy, gut health, all supported in one formulation.
- Coaching Built-In: Two free sessions per month to guide nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle.
- Proactive Side Effect Management: From NAD+ to titration, we prevent issues before they derail progress.
Conclusion
GLP-1s are powerful, but the difference between success and frustration comes down to how side effects are managed. At ZenovaMD, you don’t just get medication. You get personalized dosing, customized compounded formulations, options for additional supportive treatments such as NAD+ therapy, free coaching, and proactive support.
References:
- L. Aronne and the SURMOUNT-5 Trial Investigators. N Engl J Med 2025;393:26-36. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2416394
