Anti-obesity medications like tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) and semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) are gaining popularity for their ability to support weight loss. It’s easy to see why—they can be highly effective tools for people struggling to lose weight. But before diving in, it’s important to understand that these medications aren’t a quick fix. Without the right approach, guidance, and support, they can come with unintended consequences, including a slowed metabolism and even muscle loss.
Here are five things to consider before starting these medications:
1. They’re Tools, Not Magic Wands
Tirzepatide and semaglutide can curb your appetite and help regulate blood sugar, but they won’t do the work for you. Without meaningful changes to your diet and exercise routine, the results may not last. We’ll help you create a personalized plan so these medications become part of a bigger, more sustainable strategy.
2. Side Effects Can’t Be Ignored
Nausea, vomiting, and digestive issues are common side effects that can make it hard to stick with the medication. While most patients adjust, it’s essential to work closely with a provider to monitor your progress and make adjustments if needed. We’re here to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
3. Strength Training and Protein Are Non-Negotiable
One of the lesser-known risks of these medications is muscle loss, which can slow your metabolism and make everyday activities harder over time. It’s not a question of if muscle loss will happen—it’s about how much. To counteract this, you’ll need to strength train at least three times per week and increase your protein intake to 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight daily.
At Sunrise Skin and Wellness, we’ll help you stay accountable by connecting you with resources like fitness coaches, meal planning guides, and check-ins to keep you on track. Our InBody assessment also enables us to track your lean muscle mass, visceral fat, and percent of body fat lost as we go.
Our goal is to help you preserve muscle, protect your metabolism, and prevent complications like muscle atrophy that could lead to physical therapy down the road.
4. It’s a Financial and Emotional Commitment
These medications can be costly, especially if insurance doesn’t cover them. Additionally, they often require long-term use to maintain weight loss. We’ll work with you to make sure this commitment aligns with your goals, and we’ll help you stay focused on building habits that will set you up for success even after the medication is no longer part of the plan.
5. Long-Term Success Requires Partnership
Weight loss is a journey that requires support, consistency, and the right mindset. At Sunrise Skin and Wellness, we don’t just hand you a prescription and send you on your way. We’re your partners in this process, providing accountability, encouragement, and the tools you need to succeed. From connecting you to your ideal fitness environment (i.e. group fitness vs. private coaches) or recommending self-development books to improve your daily habits and mindset, we’re here to make sure you’re set up for the best—and most permanent—outcomes.
We’re Here for You
At Sunrise Skin and Wellness, we know weight loss can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re committed to helping you navigate every step of this journey, ensuring that you stay healthy, strong, and confident along the way. If you’re considering tirzepatide or semaglutide, let’s work together to create a plan that’s personalized for you and your goals. Schedule a consultation today—we can’t wait to be part of your success story!
Weight loss 33.3 lb in 6 months.
Strength training is vital to build muscle, but when you’re on semaglutide or tirzepatide, it is necessary just to maintain muscle.
The InBody Assessment enables us to track your lean muscle mass, visceral fat, and percent of body fat lost as we go.
Tirzepatide and semaglutide have been shown to have cardiac benefits in addition to improvements in weight.