Preparing for your first GLP1 shot
Starting Your GLP-1? Here's What to Actually Expect
So you've finally got your prescription for a GLP-1 — Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, or Mounjaro — and your feelings are somewhere between excited and terrified. That's completely normal. Here's the honest, practical guide to getting started without the anxiety.
First, the Good News: Most People Do Just Fine
Studies show about 10–30% of patients experience side effects, and in real-world practice, that number may be a bit higher — but the key thing to know is that for most people, side effects are mild, manageable, and improve over time. There are also smart strategies to minimize them from the start.
Tip #1: Take Your First Shot on a Day Off
Seriously — plan your first injection for a weekend or a low-key day at home. If side effects are going to happen, the first (and maybe second) shot tends to be the hardest. Give yourself permission to rest.
Tip #2: Watch What You Eat, Especially at First
GLP-1 medications slow the movement of food through your gut, which is why most side effects are stomach-related: nausea, heartburn, that heavy "I ate too much" feeling. The good news? You have more control over this than you might think.
Foods that commonly trigger symptoms:
Greasy, fatty, or rich foods
Large portions (your stomach needs time to adjust to eating less)
Pizza — yes, pizza. It's one of the most common culprits.
Pay attention to what sets you off. Most patients can quickly identify their personal triggers and eat around them. For most people, nausea is mild and passes. If you need occasional antacids or anti-nausea medication while you're adjusting, that's okay — but if you need it every day, that's a signal this medication may not be the right fit. The goal is to feel less like eating, not too sick to eat.
Tip #3: Drink Your Water
This one gets overlooked constantly. GLP-1s can reduce thirst along with hunger, so patients forget to hydrate — and then constipation shows up uninvited.
The fix: Get a large water bottle and put it somewhere you'll see it all day. Make hydration proactive, not reactive.
For fiber, aim for at least 25g daily (a supplement can help get you there). A probiotic can also keep things moving. And if you still get backed up, Miralax works well.
Tip #4: Don't Forget to Eat Enough
Some patients find these medications so effective that they're barely eating — and then they hit a wall of fatigue. More isn't always better when it comes to appetite suppression.
Focus on quality over quantity: make sure you're getting enough protein and nutrients. Eating right on these medications makes a huge difference in how you feel.
One More Thing: Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide
If you have a choice, Tirzepatide (Mounjaro or Zepbound) tends to be better tolerated than Semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy). Very few patients want to stop it once they get started.
Not sure which medication is right for you? We can help.
Ready to start your GLP-1 journey with an expert?
That first shot might feel nerve-wracking, but most people come out the other side feeling great — and wondering why they waited so long.
Dr. Borensztein is a triple board-certified endocrinologist and obesity specialist with same-week appointments available in Collingswood, NJ
Have questions about getting started, managing side effects, or figuring out which medication is right for you? Reach out to our team. We're here to help you feel confident, supported, and set up for success every step of the way.