AthenaVita Resource Library
Starting a GLP-1
Your first weeks should have a clear plan for eating, movement, side effects, and follow-up—not just instructions for an injection.
PRINTABLE COMPANION
A medication reference and daily-habits guide for nourishment, movement, and follow-up.
Download the GLP-1 reference & daily habitsBefore the first dose
Confirm your exact brand, formulation, dose, and schedule. Have your pharmacist demonstrate administration and review storage and missed-dose instructions. Do not convert between milligrams, milliliters, and syringe units on your own. Different products and concentrations require different instructions.
Give your daily habits a clear purpose.
| Daily priority | A practical starting point |
|---|---|
| Nourishment | Smaller meals, eaten slowly, with a protein source and other nutrient-rich foods. |
| Hydration & fiber | Sip fluids within any prescribed restriction; increase fiber gradually and ask for a constipation plan if needed. |
| Muscle & movement | Build toward regular resistance training and aerobic activity as your health allows. |
| Tracking | Notice food tolerance, bowel symptoms, energy, strength, and any glucose or blood-pressure monitoring prescribed. |
Make meals manageable
Eat slowly, try smaller meals, and stop at comfortable fullness. Include a protein source such as eggs, yogurt, fish, tofu, or beans. If appetite is very low, a smaller balanced meal may be easier than a large plate. A personalized protein target should account for kidney health and the weight basis used to calculate it.
Build a daily rhythm
Sip fluids through the day within any prescribed restriction. Increase fiber gradually using oats, beans, fruit, and vegetables. Constipation that persists needs a plan; continually adding fiber may not solve it. Aim toward two strength sessions weekly and regular aerobic activity, starting where your health and fitness allow.
Track tolerability as well as weight
Note nausea, bowel changes, hydration, energy, and whether you can eat enough. Track glucose or blood pressure when instructed. New weakness or persistent fatigue should prompt review of intake, medications, and other possible causes rather than an automatic dose increase.
Before procedures or pregnancy
Tell the anesthesia or sedation team about your medicine; instructions depend on the procedure and your situation. Review pregnancy plans in advance. Tirzepatide can reduce oral contraceptive effectiveness: discuss a non-oral method or added barrier protection for four weeks after starting and each dose increase.
Leave follow-up with a decision
Ask whether the current dose remains appropriate, how side effects will be treated, and when to call before the next appointment. The best next step may be maintaining a dose or adjusting the plan rather than escalating.
“Can I eat enough, stay hydrated, and keep my strength?”
Bring these questions to follow-up alongside your weight trend.