GLP-1 Patient Guide
Patient education
Understanding GLP-1 treatment
A practical guide to semaglutide and tirzepatide, preparing for treatment, managing common effects, and knowing when to contact your care team.
Semaglutide
A GLP-1 receptor agonist. Different FDA-approved products are used for type 2 diabetes or chronic weight management. Your prescriber determines whether it is appropriate for you.
Tirzepatide
A medicine that activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors. Different FDA-approved products are used for type 2 diabetes or chronic weight management. Treatment requires medical supervision.
Before your first dose
Give the medical team a complete list of your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Discuss your medical history, including:
- Pregnancy, plans to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2
- Pancreas, gallbladder, kidney, liver, or serious stomach problems
- Diabetes medicines, especially insulin or sulfonylureas
- Upcoming surgery, anesthesia, or deep sedation
Using treatment safely
- Use only the dose and schedule prescribed for you.
- Do not combine GLP-1 medicines or change doses without your prescriber.
- Confirm the medication name, concentration, dose, storage instructions, and injection directions each time you receive it.
- Never share medication, pens, vials, or needles.
- Keep every follow-up so your response, side effects, and dose can be reviewed.
Common effects
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach discomfort, and reduced appetite can occur. Smaller meals, slower eating, and regular fluid intake may help. Contact the medical team if symptoms are persistent, severe, or prevent you from drinking enough fluids.
Get urgent medical help
Seek prompt care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat, fainting, severe dehydration, or another rapidly worsening symptom. Contact your prescriber promptly for significant vision changes or symptoms of very low blood sugar.
Daily habits that support progress
Drink regularly throughout the day and follow any fluid guidance from your clinician.
Prioritize protein, fiber, and nutrient-dense foods in portions you tolerate comfortably.
Include activity and resistance exercise when medically appropriate.
Record doses, symptoms, hydration, and questions for your follow-up visits.
Understanding compounded medication
Compounded medicines can be prescribed for an identified patient need, but they are not FDA-approved products. FDA does not review compounded medicines for safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are marketed. Ask which pharmacy prepared your medication, whether it operates under section 503A or 503B, and how the ingredient, concentration, storage, and dosing instructions were verified.
Who provides your care
Revitalize ALFA MD is a joint venture between Revitalize Body MD NJ and pH Balance ALFA. Medical evaluation, prescribing, and medication management are provided by Revitalize Body MD NJ. Lifestyle and molecular-hydrogen education may be provided by pH Balance ALFA within its appropriate scope. Jamie Bell is an employee of Revitalize Body MD NJ.
Questions about treatment?
Call the office to schedule a medical consultation or follow-up.
Call (609) 956-7105This page provides general education and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your prescriber determines candidacy, medication, dose, and monitoring.