Weight Loss with GLP-1s: Ozempic, Tirzepatides, Mounjaro—Are They for You?

Pink Magazine — The Glow Up
Special Section 2025  |  November 2025 Issue
By Rafael Sanchez, M.D.

Losing extra weight isn’t just about looking better, it’s about being healthier and feeling stronger every day.

Even a modest amount of weight loss can lower your risk of many diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, some cancers, and joint pain, while also giving you more energy and confidence. New treatments like GLP-1 injections are making weight loss easier to achieve and more sustainable by helping control appetite, improving blood sugar levels, and supporting a healthier metabolism. Together, these changes not only help patients reach their weight goals, but also protect long-term health, offering a better quality of life.

GLP-1 medications work by acting like a natural hormone your body makes after you eat. They slow down the pace of food leaving the stomach, helping you feel full sooner, and keeping your appetite under control. Some patients, even those who usually have seconds or always clean their plates, claim they now have an “off” or “stop eating” button after taking the GLP-1 injections. Cravings also diminish—even for those who claim to have a voracious sweet tooth! These injections help the body release insulin when needed, which keeps blood sugar steady. This powerful combination makes it easier to lose weight, helps control diabetes, and protects the heart.

You have probably seen or heard about GLP-1s such as Mounjaro™, Ozempic™, or Wegovy™. But more than likely, you have not seen and heard correct information. The most important thing to know is GLP-1s are prescription medications which should only be prescribed by your physician or a physician with expert knowledge regarding the indications and precautions that can accompany these medications. In other words, you need to be under the care of a qualified, knowledgeable physician.

Internet offerings or “pop-up” clinics with a “medical director” who meets with you infrequently from a faraway place via Zoom is not the care you need or deserve when making such life-changing strives that affect your overall health. Like all prescription medications, it is imperative your doctor monitors how your body reacts, as well as your health and well-being as you lose weight.

Fact: GLP-1s are not a stand-alone fix or a one-size-fits-all drug. Fact: There are no generic or off-brands approved for the market. GLP-1s are medications that require professional monitoring, as they may need to be tweaked to mitigate side-effects. Doses may need to be changed based on tolerance and pace of weight loss, and dietary and exercise protocols need to be prescribed as part of the process. Your doctor should see you weekly, bi-monthly or monthly to guide you through your weight-loss journey safely and successfully. During these visits, you can openly discuss your concerns and goals, ask questions, and learn your body as you work to reach your goals.

This is your health, which is your greatest wealth. Finally losing the extra weight is a huge step in preparing yourself for a healthier future. Do not leave it to some internet discount knockoff or fly-by-night clinic. Surround yourself with people who will support you throughout your journey to lose weight once and for all, starting with a doctor who cares about your health every step of the way. Remember, this isn’t just about looking good, it’s about living well.

Dr. Sanchez, a graduate of Duke University School of Medicine, is a seasoned physician with a diverse skill set. He completed a four-year residency in both internal medicine and pediatrics at Baystate Medical Center in Western Massachusetts. Though his professional journey spans various healthcare environments, including hospital medical floors, ICUs, and primary and urgent care clinics, he is the owner of Prestige Primary Care on Hilton Head Island. Offering patient-focused care in Internal Medicine and Weight Loss, Prestige Primary Care is currently accepting new patients. Call 843-227-4595 to learn more or make an appointment.