GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications: Benefits, Risks, and What You Need to Know
Over the past few years, GLP-1 medications have become some of the most talked-about treatments for weight loss. Drugs like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Zepbound®, and Mounjaro® have helped many people lose significant amounts of weight and improve their health.
If you've been considering one of these medications—or are already taking one—it's important to understand both the benefits and the potential drawbacks. While these medications can be incredibly effective, they work best when combined with proper nutrition, exercise, and a long-term lifestyle plan.
As a physical therapist in the Green Bay area, I often see people focusing on the number on the scale while overlooking something equally important: maintaining muscle, strength, balance, and function.
Let's take a closer look.
What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) medications mimic a hormone naturally produced in your body that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite.
They work by:
Reducing hunger
Helping you feel full longer
Slowing stomach emptying
Improving insulin response
Reducing food cravings
Common medications include:
Ozempic
Wegovy
Mounjaro
Zepbound
Many people lose anywhere from 10–25% of their body weight, depending on the medication and lifestyle habits.
The Benefits of GLP-1 Medications
For many individuals struggling with obesity or related health conditions, these medications can be life-changing.
Potential benefits include:
Significant Weight Loss
Compared to traditional dieting alone, GLP-1 medications often produce much larger and more sustainable weight loss.
Improved Blood Sugar
Many medications were originally developed for Type 2 Diabetes and can dramatically improve glucose control.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Disease
Weight loss can lower the risk of:
Heart disease
Stroke
High blood pressure
Sleep apnea
Fatty liver disease
Osteoarthritis progression
Less Joint Pain
Carrying less body weight often means:
Less knee pain
Less hip pain
Less back pain
Even losing 10 pounds can significantly reduce the force placed through your knees with every step.
Increased Ability to Exercise
Many people find it easier to become active once they lose weight, creating a positive cycle of improved health.
The Drawbacks You Should Know About
Although GLP-1 medications can be incredibly helpful, they're not without risks.
Muscle Loss
This is one of the biggest concerns—and one that doesn't get enough attention.
When people lose weight quickly, they don't just lose fat.
They also lose:
Muscle
Bone density
Strength
Without enough resistance exercise and protein intake, a significant portion of weight loss may come from lean muscle.
That matters because muscle is critical for:
Balance
Metabolism
Joint protection
Injury prevention
Independence as we age
This is one of the biggest reasons we encourage patients to continue strength training while losing weight.
Nausea and Digestive Issues
Common side effects include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Diarrhea
Bloating
Feeling overly full
Most improve over time but can limit food intake if severe.
Fatigue
Eating less means consuming fewer calories.
If nutrition isn't managed well, many people notice:
Low energy
Weakness
Difficulty exercising
Weight Regain
One important thing to understand:
These medications do not permanently "fix" weight. Many people regain weight after stopping them if healthy habits haven't been established.
Long-term success depends on:
Nutrition
Exercise
Sleep
Stress management
Sustainable lifestyle changes
Cost
Depending on insurance coverage, GLP-1 medications can be expensive. For some individuals, long-term treatment may not be financially realistic.
How to Protect Your Muscle While Losing Weight
Whether you're using GLP-1 medications or losing weight naturally, preserving muscle should be a priority.
Focus on:
Eat Enough Protein
Protein provides the building blocks needed to maintain muscle during weight loss.
Most active adults benefit from spreading protein intake throughout the day, though individual needs vary based on age, activity level, and medical conditions.
Strength Train Regularly
Resistance training tells your body:
"Keep this muscle." Even two to three sessions per week can make a significant difference.
Exercises may include:
Squats
Lunges
Deadlifts
Push-ups
Rows
Resistance bands
A physical therapist can help tailor these exercises if you have pain or mobility limitations.
Stay Active
Walking, cycling, swimming, golfing, and other activities help maintain cardiovascular health while supporting overall fitness. Movement remains one of the most powerful tools for long-term health.
Prioritize Recovery
Sleep and hydration play an important role in preserving muscle, supporting recovery, and maintaining energy levels.
Where Physical Therapy Fits In
Many people don't realize that physical therapy can be an important part of a successful weight loss journey.
A physical therapist can help you:
Build strength safely
Reduce joint pain
Improve mobility
Prevent injuries
Increase balance
Return to activities you enjoy
Develop an exercise program that fits your goals
This is especially valuable if arthritis, back pain, knee pain, or previous injuries have made exercise difficult.
For golfers, maintaining strength, mobility, and balance during weight loss can also help improve swing efficiency and reduce injury risk.
The Bottom Line
GLP-1 medications have become an effective option for many people seeking meaningful weight loss, and they can provide real health benefits when used appropriately under medical supervision. However, they are most successful when paired with healthy lifestyle habits rather than viewed as a standalone solution.
If you're taking a GLP-1 medication—or thinking about starting one—don't overlook the importance of preserving muscle, maintaining strength, and staying active. Those factors can make the difference between simply losing weight and building a healthier, more functional body for years to come.
At Full Swing Fitness and Rehab, we help people in Green Bay, De Pere, and the surrounding communities move better, stay strong, and remain active through personalized physical therapy and performance-focused care. Whether your goal is reducing pain, returning to golf, or exercising confidently during your weight loss journey, we're here to help you every step of the way.