GLP-1 medications have transformed the treatment of obesity and Type 2 diabetes, helping many patients achieve significant weight loss and improved metabolic health. But are patients having enough conversations with their health care providers about the potential risks?

These medications can be highly effective, but they are not without side effects. According to prescribing information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, potential complications may include delayed gastric emptying, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, dehydration-related acute kidney injury. Some GLP-1 medications carry a boxed warning related to a possible risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Patients may also lose lean muscle mass during rapid weight loss. A 2026 Epic Research analysis of more than 380,000 adults without diabetes found that, among patients who maintained a stable weight, those prescribed GLP-1 medications had a 22% higher likelihood of osteoporosis than those prescribed other weight-loss medications.

Every medication has benefits and risks, and patients deserve a thorough discussion before beginning a GLP-1 medication for weight loss. For some people, alternatives to GLP-1 medications may include lifestyle changes and other medically appropriate treatment options.

Consider these foundational strategies:

Diet: Prioritize a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet. Focus on whole-food protein sources such as eggs, lean meats, nuts and Greek yogurt.

Exercise: Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, including resistance training, two to three times per week.

Supplements: Berberine and soluble fiber may be beneficial. Psyllium husk may also help reduce post-meal glucose spikes.

Prescription medications: Low-dose naltrexone, also known as LDN, may help control appetite and cravings. Lipotropic injections, such as Lipo-C, may support fat metabolism.

Weight loss does not always require a GLP-1 prescription. Sustainable results often begin with optimizing nutrition, building muscle, improving insulin sensitivity and addressing the root causes driving weight gain. The safest plan is one developed with a qualified health care professional who considers the patient’s health history, goals and individual risks.

Grant Thomas, APRN, AGACNP-BC, CFMP, FNP-C, works alongside Inga Santoro, RN, EMT-P, to provide mobile direct primary care and functional medicine in Brevard County. For further information on weight loss, visit BlueHeronWellnessBrevard.com or call 321-222-7842.