How to Switch Between GLP-1 Medications Safely

• No washout needed for same-class switches — GLP-1 to GLP-1 transitions can happen back-to-back
• Always start at the lowest dose — Even if you were on a high dose of your previous medication
• Titrate based on tolerance, not equivalence — Your doctor will increase your dose based on how you respond
• The first 2-4 weeks are the adjustment period — Mild GI symptoms are normal and typically resolve
• Monitor blood sugar if diabetic — Switching medications can cause temporary glucose fluctuations

Good reasons to switch:

• Intolerable side effects on current medication
• Cost/insurance issues
• Want to move from injections to oral
• Current medication isn't effective enough
• Supply issues with current medication
• Transitioning from weight loss to maintenance phase

Reasons to stay:

• Current medication is working well with manageable side effects
• You're still in active weight loss phase
• Insurance covers your current medication well

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any of these during a switch:

• Severe nausea or vomiting that prevents eating or drinking for >24 hours
• Weight gain >5 lbs in the first month after switching
• Blood sugar >250 mg/dL (for diabetic patients)
• Severe abdominal pain — could indicate pancreatitis (rare but serious)
• Signs of dehydration — dark urine, dizziness, rapid heartbeat
• Allergic reaction — rash, swelling, difficulty breathing

Nausea: Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid fatty or spicy foods. Take oral GLP-1s with food if allowed (Foundayo yes, Rybelsus/Wegovy pill no).

Diarrhea/constipation: Stay hydrated. Eat fiber-rich foods. These typically resolve within 2-3 weeks.

Fatigue: Common during the first week. Usually resolves as your body adjusts.

Headache: Stay hydrated. OTC pain relief is fine.