GLP-1 Medications Explained: Pills, Shots and Possible Side Effects

17 April 2026

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Choosing a treatment plan after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, obesity, moderate to severe sleep apnea and/or coronary artery disease can be stressful. At INTEGRIS Health, we offer injectable and oral GLP-1 medications that help manage blood sugar and support weight loss, while also helping mitigate other possible comorbid conditions. These treatments work by copying natural hormones that control appetite and insulin.

We speak to Bronwyn Woods, M.D., a board-certified family medicine physician at INTEGRIS Health Medical Group Baptist, to learn more.

“GLP‑1 medications, whether they’re taken as a daily pill or a weekly injection, can be very effective, but it’s important for patients to know upfront that the first month is often an adjustment period,” Woods says. “The most common side effects are stomach-related, including nausea, feeling overly full, acid reflux, constipation or diarrhea, especially after dose increases."

What are GLP-1 medications?

The basics: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists are a class of drugs designed to lower blood sugar and promote weight loss. They work by mimicking a hormone your body naturally produces to stimulate insulin release after eating.

They slow down stomach emptying so you feel full longer.
These drugs help prevent the liver from making too much sugar.
Patients typically experience a significant decrease in cravings and appetite.
Medical professionals prescribe them for long-term health care management.

Common uses for GLP-1 medications

Key applications: Doctors primarily prescribe these treatments to help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood glucose levels. Researchers also discovered they serve as highly effective tools for chronic weight management in overweight patients.

Health care providers use them to lower the risk of major cardiovascular events.
They help patients achieve sustainable weight reduction when combined with diet and exercise.
Many individuals use GLP-1 weight loss pills as a convenient daily alternative.
They improve overall metabolic health in patients with obesity-related conditions.

Pills vs. shots: Which is more effective?

Comparing methods: Choosing between a daily pill and a weekly injection often depends on your personal lifestyle and medical needs. Both formats deliver the same active ingredients but are absorbed into your bloodstream differently.

Injections typically provide more robust weight loss results in clinical trials.
Daily pills offer a needle-free option for patients with a fear of injections.
Your doctor will evaluate your digestive health to determine the best absorption method.
Insurance coverage might vary between the injectable forms and oral GLP-1 medications.
- GLP-1 manufacturers also offer self-pay pricing due to limited insurance coverage.
- Interested patients should schedule an appointment to discuss this option with your physician to see if it’s a good alternative for you depending on coverage and cost.
- Novo Nordisk and Lilly are the two major GLP-1 manufacturers with Pfizer also set to offer GLP-1 soon.
- Commonly prescribed GLP-1 medications include: Ozempic, Wegovy, Foundayo, Rybelsus, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Victoza, Saxenda, Trulicity, Byetta, Bydureon BCise and Adlyxin.

Weekly shots deliver the medication directly into the fatty tissue for slow and steady absorption. This consistent release mechanism keeps blood sugar levels stable and maximizes appetite suppression throughout the week.

Patients often see rapid initial weight loss during the first few months.
The weekly schedule improves medication adherence for busy individuals.
Higher doses available in injectable form lead to greater overall fat reduction.

Daily pills require patients to follow the routine closely. Even though this takes more daily effort, they still help control blood sugar and support moderate weight loss.

They bypass the need for refrigeration and sharps disposal.
They serve as an excellent starting point for those new to this drug class.

Possible side effects of GLP-1 medications

What to watch for: Altering your digestive speed often leads to gastrointestinal discomfort during the initial weeks of treatment. Understanding potential GLP-1 side effects helps you and your doctor manage symptoms while your body adjusts to the drug.

Most patients experience mild stomach issues that resolve over time.
Staying hydrated helps minimize the severity of digestive discomfort.
Eating smaller meals and focusing on maintaining your daily protein intake can prevent feelings of extreme fullness and nausea.
Your provider will slowly increase your dosage to mitigate adverse reactions.

Many people feel mild to moderate nausea when they first start the medication. You may also notice changes in your bowel habits as your digestion slows.

Nausea and occasional vomiting represent the most frequently reported issues.
Constipation or diarrhea can occur depending on your diet.
Some people experience acid reflux and mild stomach cramps.
Fatigue often sets in as your body adapts to consuming fewer calories.

Serious complications are rare, but these medications can sometimes cause dangerous problems that need quick medical attention. Watch for severe stomach pain or signs of an allergic reaction.

Pancreatitis causes intense stomach pain that radiates to your back.
Gallbladder issues can develop and require urgent medical intervention.
Kidney problems may arise if severe dehydration occurs from prolonged vomiting.
Thyroid tumors represent a rare risk observed primarily in animal studies.
It’s recommended you also let your optometrist or ophthalmologist know, if applicable, that you’re taking a GLP-1 so that they can monitor for any side effects.

Who should consider GLP-1 medications?

Ideal candidates: These treatments work best for adults struggling to manage type 2 diabetes or those with a body mass index classifying them as obese. They provide a powerful medical intervention when traditional diet and exercise have not yielded sustainable results.

Adults with a BMI over 30 represent prime candidates for weight loss prescriptions.
Patients with a BMI of 27+ and weight-related health issues also qualify.
Those seeking an alternative to bariatric surgery often find success with these drugs.
Individuals needing better A1C control can benefit significantly.
People with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea or known cardiovascular disease can also benefit from GLP-1 medications.

Find a doctor at INTEGRIS Health

Find help: Taking the first step toward better metabolic health requires a trusted medical partner who understands your unique challenges. The compassionate providers at INTEGRIS Health stand ready to help you navigate your treatment options and find a path that works for your life.

Whether you need help managing diabetes, want to explore new avenues for weight loss or treating obesity-related conditions, our team offers the expertise and support you deserve. Find a doctor today to help you with GLP-1 medications.

This article was medically reviewed by Bronwyn Woods, M.D., on April 17, 2026. Our health and wellness experts regularly review new research and update our articles to reflect the most current, evidence-based information.