Is a GLP-1 right for You!?
Here is a fantastic FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) that Nurse Hardeep has compiled. But please do call us at (905) 605-9355 for all inquiries.
- I prescribe Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide), all of which are approved by Health Canada for weight management.
- I also prescribe Ozempic (semaglutide) however, this is considered off-label when used specifically for weight loss.
- If a medication is used off-label, an important consideration is that most private insurance plans will not cover the cost, and patients should be prepared for out-of-pocket expenses.
2. How much does it usually cost/approx?
- Typical monthly cost in Canada:
– Wegovy: $400–$570
– Saxenda: $450–$600
– Zepbound / Mounjaro: $300–$540+
– Ozempic (off-label): $300–$400 - Insurance coverage varies widely, coverage is more likely for medications with an approved obesity indication.
- Yes, all of these are subcutaneous injectable medications
- Patients self-administer the injections, typically once daily (Saxenda) or once weekly (Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound)
- A pharmacist or healthcare provider will teach proper injection technique
- Dose adjustments should not be done independently. Doses are titrated gradually with your healthcare provider based on tolerance, side effects, and response.
- Follow-up is typically every 4 weeks during the dose-escalation (titration) phase
- Once a stable dose is reached, follow-ups may be spaced out (e.g., every 3–6 months)
- Follow-up fee: $140 per visit for 30 minutes
- GLP-1 receptor agonists are not appropriate in certain situations, including:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- History of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Known hypersensitivity to the medication
- History of pancreatitis (relative contraindication; requires careful consideration)
- Severe gastrointestinal disease (e.g., gastroparesis)
- Each patient is assessed individually to determine safety and appropriateness
- Based on Obesity Canada guidelines and clinical trials (typically over ~1 year):
– Saxenda: ~5–8% total body weight loss
– Wegovy: ~10–15% total body weight loss
– Tirzepatide: ~15–20% (or more) total body weight loss
– weight loss is gradual and occurs over several months, with the most significant changes seen after reaching the full
therapeutic dose
– results vary depending on adherence, lifestyle factors, and individual response
- According to Obesity Canada guidance:
– Adults (18+) are eligible for all GLP-1-based weight-loss medications
– Adolescents (≥12 years old) may be eligible for certain agents (e.g., liraglutide and semaglutide) depending on clinical
context and approval status
– use in younger populations requires specialist involvement.
- Dexamethasone suppression test is ordered to rule out Cushing’s syndrome, a condition of excess cortisol that can cause weight gain
- This test helps determine whether weight gain is due to a hormonal disorder rather than primary obesity
- Identifying underlying endocrine causes is important before starting weight-loss medications
- The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and often improve over time:
– Nausea (most common)
– Vomiting
– Constipation or diarrhea
– GERD / acid reflux
– Bloating and early satiety
– Fatigue - Less common but more serious risks include:
– Gallbladder disease
– Pancreatitis (rare)
10. Why would you stop someone from using GLP-1 once started?
- Treatment may be discontinued if:
– the patient experiences intolerable side effects
– there is insufficient weight loss (e.g., <5% after an adequate trial at full dose)
– a contraindication develops (e.g., pregnancy, new medical condition)
– the patient prefers to stop or cannot continue due to cost or access issues - Clinical reassessment is essential before deciding to stop therapy.
- Obesity is considered a chronic condition and GLP-1 medications are intended for long-term use
- Evidence shows that stopping the medication often leads to weight regain
- Many patients remain on therapy indefinitely, similar to treatments for other chronic conditions (e.g., hypertension or diabetes), provided the medication is effective and well tolerated
- Periodic reassessment ensures the treatment remains appropriate and beneficial
GLP-1 Agonists: A Powerful Tool for Sustainable Weight Management
One of the most exciting advancements I’ve seen in clinical practice is the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists — medications that are transforming how we approach obesity and metabolic health.
If you’ve been struggling with weight despite dedicated efforts with diet and exercise, you’re not alone. Many of my patients at Tri-Health tell me they feel frustrated, discouraged, and even blamed for their weight. GLP-1 agonists offer a medically proven option that works with your body’s natural systems rather than against them. In this blog, I’ll walk you through exactly what these medications are, how they work, who may benefit, what to expect, and how we integrate them safely at our centre.
What Are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a hormone naturally produced in your gut after eating. GLP-1 agonists are injectable or oral medications that mimic this hormone. The most commonly prescribed in Canada include:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy® for weight management; Ozempic® often used off-label)
- Tirzepatide (Zepbound® / Mounjaro®) — a dual GLP-1/GIP agonist that tends to produce even greater weight loss
- Liraglutide (Saxenda®)
Originally developed for Type 2 diabetes, these medications received Health Canada approval for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with at least one weight-related condition (such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, or obstructive sleep apnea).
How Do They Work for Weight Loss?
Unlike older weight-loss medications that simply suppress appetite through the central nervous system, GLP-1 agonists act on multiple pathways:
- Appetite regulation: They signal the brain’s satiety centre that you are full — faster and for longer.
- Gastric emptying: Food stays in the stomach longer, so you feel satisfied with smaller portions.
- Blood-sugar control: They improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose spikes, which helps curb cravings.
- Reward pathways: Many patients report that high-fat, high-sugar foods simply become less appealing.
Clinical trials show impressive results:
- Semaglutide users lost an average of 15–17 % of their body weight over 68 weeks.
- Tirzepatide users achieved 20–22 % average weight loss in similar timeframes.
These numbers are life-changing for many of my patients at Tri-Health.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
At Tri-Health Wellness Centre, we perform a thorough assessment before recommending GLP-1 therapy. You may be a candidate if you:
- Have a BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with comorbidities)
- Have struggled with weight despite consistent lifestyle efforts
- Are motivated to adopt sustainable nutrition and movement habits
- Have no history of medullary thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or certain gastrointestinal disorders
- Are willing to be monitored regularly
We also consider mental health, current medications, and insurance coverage (many extended health plans in Ontario now cover these medications when prescribed appropriately).
What to Expect: Benefits, Side Effects & Monitoring
Benefits my patients commonly report
- Steady, predictable weight loss (often 1–2 lbs per week after the initial titration)
- Improved energy and reduced joint pain
- Better blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood-sugar control
- Decreased risk of cardiovascular events (supported by large outcome trials)
- Renewed confidence and improved quality of life
Common side effects (usually mild and improve within 4–8 weeks)
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Temporary fatigue
- Heartburn or burping
Serious side effects are rare but possible (e.g., gallbladder issues, pancreatitis). That’s why we start with a low dose and titrate slowly at Tri-Health. Every patient receives a personalized injection-training session, a symptom-management plan, and follow-up visits at weeks 2, 4, 8, and then monthly until stable.
It’s Not a “Magic Shot” — Lifestyle Still Matters
I’m very clear with every patient: GLP-1 agonists are a tool, not a replacement for healthy habits. At Tri-Health Wellness Centre, we combine medication with:
- One-on-one nutrition counselling focused on protein-first, fibre-rich meals
- Movement plans that fit real lives (no gym intimidation)
- Behavioural coaching to address emotional eating
- Ongoing lab monitoring and body-composition analysis
Patients who embrace this holistic approach maintain their weight loss long-term and often need lower doses over time.
Is GLP-1 Therapy Right for You?
If you’re in the Vaughan, Woodbridge, or Greater Toronto Area and ready to explore whether GLP-1 agonists could be part of your success story, we’d love to help. At Tri-Health Wellness Centre we offer:
- Complimentary 15-minute discovery calls
- Comprehensive initial assessments (including bloodwork review)
- Ongoing support from a multidisciplinary team (NP, registered dietitian, and lifestyle coach)
Book your consultation today by calling our Vaughan clinic at (905) 605-9355.
Weight management is deeply personal. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but modern medicine now gives us more effective, evidence-based options than ever before. If you’ve been waiting for a compassionate, science-backed approach, I’m here to walk that path with you.
