For a simpler rule of thumb, registered dietitian Samantha Cassetty suggests getting 20 to 30 grams of protein at each meal or snack

More serious but less common adverse effects require clinical vigilance: Pancreatitis : Patients should be counselled to stop the medication and seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe, persistent abdominal pain radiating to the back [1] [5] Gallbladder disease : Rapid weight loss associated with GLP-1 therapy may increase cholelithiasis risk [1] Hypoglycaemia : Particularly when used alongside insulin or sulphonylureas in diabetes management Diabetic retinopathy : Semaglutide requires caution in patients with pre-existing retinopathy, who should be monitored regularly [1] Renal impairment : Dehydration from gastrointestinal side effects may affect kidney function Specific considerations for individuals with eating disorders include the potential for GLP-1 medications to exacerbate restrictive eating patterns or mask hunger cues in vulnerable individuals
Lower doses of FDA-approved GLP-1 medications may be used safely when prescribed and monitored by a clinician
Patients with thyroid nodules noted on physical examination or neck imaging should also be further evaluated
Best for All skin types looking to support their skin health or improve skin conditions such as acne, eczema of fine lines and pigmentation
FIGURE 1 GLP-1 also plays an important role in activating the glucose sensor in the portal vein (Malbert et al., 2021), which can also be accessed by GLP-1 coming from the intestine, before breakdown by DPP4