Thinking about trying that new weight loss shot everyone’s talking about?
With the rising popularity of injectable weight loss medications, thousands of people are starting their weight loss journeys this way.
Let’s walk through exactly what you can expect during your first 90 days of treatment.
Important Pre-Treatment Considerations:
Factor | Why It Matters | Action Required |
Medical History | Safety screening | Complete health assessment |
Current Weight | Baseline measurement | Document starting weight |
Medication Type | Treatment protocol | Discuss options with doctor |
Insurance Coverage | Financial planning | Check coverage details |
Lifestyle Habits | Success factors | Record current diet/exercise |
Month 1: Getting Started
Week 1-2: The Adjustment Period
The first two weeks are crucial for setting up success. Here’s what typically happens:
Timeline | Physical Changes | Mental Changes |
Days 1-3 | Minimal changes | Anticipation/anxiety |
Days 4-7 | Initial appetite changes | Awareness of eating habits |
Days 8-14 | First signs of satiety | Adapting to new routine |
Common First-Month Experiences:
- Reduced hunger (typically starts days 3-5)
- Possible mild nausea (usually temporary)
- Early feeling of fullness
- Changes in taste preferences
- Slight energy fluctuations
Expected Weight Loss: Most patients lose 2-4 pounds in the first two weeks, though individual results vary significantly.
Month 2: Adapting and Progress
Weeks 5-8: The Breakthrough Period
During your second month, you’ll likely notice more substantial changes:
Aspect | Typical Changes | Action Items |
Appetite | Significantly reduced | Monitor portion sizes |
Energy | Stabilizing | Start regular exercise |
Weight Loss | Steady progress | Weekly weigh-ins |
Side Effects | Usually diminishing | Track any concerns |
Key Month 2 Milestones:
- More consistent weight loss
- Better understanding of portion control
- Improved relationship with food
- Developing new eating habits
Month 3: Establishing Routine
Weeks 9-12: The Consistency Phase
By month three, most patients report:
Area | Progress | Focus Points |
Weight Loss | Steady pace | Maintaining momentum |
Habits | Well-established | Fine-tuning routine |
Exercise | Increased capacity | Building endurance |
Mindset | More confident | Long-term planning |
Expected Results Timeline
Note: Individual results vary based on multiple factors
Time Point | Average Weight Loss | Lifestyle Changes |
Week 4 | 4-8 pounds | Basic habit formation |
Week 8 | 8-16 pounds | Routine establishment |
Week 12 | 12-24 pounds | Lifestyle integration |
Managing Side Effects
Common Side Effects and Management Strategies:
Side Effect | Timing | Management |
Nausea | First 2-3 weeks | Small, frequent meals |
Fatigue | Weeks 1-4 | Adequate rest/hydration |
Constipation | Throughout | Increased fiber/water |
Headaches | First 2 weeks | Stay hydrated |
Pro Tips for Minimizing Side Effects:
- Start with the lowest dose
- Stay extremely well-hydrated
- Eat protein-rich foods first
- Take medication as prescribed
- Report severe symptoms immediately
Success Tips
Maximize Your Results:
- Nutrition Guidelines
- Focus on protein (20-30g per meal)
- Stay hydrated (minimum 64 oz water daily)
- Eat slowly and mindfully
- Plan meals ahead
- Exercise Recommendations
Week | Type | Duration |
1-4 | Light walking | 15-20 min |
5-8 | Moderate cardio | 20-30 min |
9-12 | Mixed cardio/strength | 30-45 min |
- Mental Preparation
- Set realistic expectations
- Keep a progress journal
- Join support groups
- Celebrate non-scale victories
Important Considerations
Financial Planning:
Aspect | Typical Cost | Notes |
Monthly Medication | $900-1500 | Insurance may cover |
Medical Visits | $100-300 | Frequency varies |
Lab Work | $50-200 | Required monitoring |
When to Contact Your Doctor:
Immediate attention needed if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Vision changes
- Unusual fatigue
Lifestyle Integration
Making It Work Long-Term:
- Meal Planning Strategies
- Prep meals in advance
- Keep healthy snacks available
- Plan for social events
- Learn portion control
- Building Support Systems
- Share goals with family
- Join online communities
- Regular doctor check-ins
- Consider therapy support
Looking Ahead
After Three Months:
Aspect | Expectations | Next Steps |
Weight Loss | Continued steady progress | Adjust goals |
Lifestyle | Established routine | Fine-tune habits |
Medication | Possible dose adjustments | Regular reviews |
Health Markers | Improvement in metrics | Monitor progress |