Patient Information

Information About Your Appointment and the Use of GLP-1-Based Medications

Dear Patient,

We look forward to your appointment! As part of medically supervised programs, GLP-1-based medications may be used if medically indicated and prescribed by your doctor.

Please read the following information carefully before your appointment. It contains important details about the effects, use, risks, and possible side effects of these medications.

1. What Are GLP-1-Based Medications?

GLP-1-based medications mimic or act on receptors of naturally occurring hormones in the body. These hormones can:

• stimulate insulin secretion,
• suppress glucagon secretion,
• slow gastric emptying,
• reduce appetite and hunger.

Examples: Semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®), liraglutide (Saxenda®)

2. Goals of Therapy

• Weight loss
• Improved blood sugar control
• Reduced cardiovascular risk, especially in patients with diabetes

3. Method of Administration

• Mounjaro® and Wegovy® are usually administered once weekly as a subcutaneous injection.
• Saxenda® is usually administered once daily as a subcutaneous injection.
• The injection is usually given into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
• The dose is increased gradually according to your doctor’s instructions.

4. Common Side Effects

GLP-1-based medications can affect the gastrointestinal tract. The following symptoms are therefore common, especially at the beginning of treatment:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Feeling of fullness, loss of appetite
• Belching, bloating

Rare but serious risks

• Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas

Symptoms may include severe upper abdominal pain that can radiate to the back.

• Gallbladder disease, such as gallstones
• Kidney problems caused by dehydration, such as kidney stones
• Delayed gastric emptying, also known as gastroparesis
• Thyroid tumors, observed in animal studies but not confirmed in humans

Use is not possible in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).

5. Contraindications – Use With Caution If You Have:

• A history of pancreatitis
• Thyroid tumors or MTC in your family
• Severe gastrointestinal disorders
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Type 1 diabetes

6. What You Should Keep in Mind:

• Start with small portions and eat slowly.
• Make sure you drink enough fluids.
• In case of severe side effects or persistent symptoms, please seek medical attention immediately.
• Please report any unusual reactions or new symptoms to us.