Complete Patient Guide
Your GLP-1
Starter Guide.
Everything you need to understand, prepare for, and make the most of GLP-1 therapy — explained clearly, without the jargon.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist — At a Glance
Up to 12%
Weight loss · 6 months
Weekly
Injection frequency
GIP + GLP-1
Dual receptor (tirzepatide)
Medically
Supervised always
Section 01
What Is GLP-1?
Understanding the hormone your body already makes — and how therapy works with it.
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 — a hormone your gut naturally releases after you eat. It tells your pancreas to produce insulin, signals your brain that you're full, and slows the rate at which food leaves your stomach.
In people living with obesity or type 2 diabetes, this signalling system is often blunted. GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic and amplify this hormone, restoring the feedback loop your body was meant to have.
Tirzepatide — a newer class — activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, producing stronger metabolic effects than earlier single-receptor medications. This is why clinical results with tirzepatide are consistently more significant.
These are not appetite suppressants or stimulants. They are metabolic correctors — working with your biology, not against it.
🧠
Reduces appetite signals in the brain
Acts on hunger-regulating centres to lower food cravings and reduce the reward response to food.
🫀
Stimulates insulin, suppresses glucagon
Helps normalise blood sugar by prompting insulin release only when glucose is elevated.
⏱
Slows gastric emptying
Food moves through your stomach more slowly, extending feelings of fullness after meals.
⚖️
Improves metabolic efficiency
Reduces visceral fat, improves insulin sensitivity, and lowers cardiovascular risk markers over time.
Section 02
Am I a Candidate?
GLP-1 therapy isn't one-size-fits-all. Here's who typically qualifies — and what to discuss with your doctor.
📊
BMI ≥ 30
Obesity (BMI 30+) is the primary clinical indication. GLP-1 therapy addresses the biological mechanisms driving weight retention.
Primary indication
🩺
BMI ≥ 27 + Comorbidity
Overweight individuals with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, or dyslipidaemia often qualify even below BMI 30.
With comorbidities
🔄
Failed Prior Interventions
Those who have tried lifestyle modification consistently without sustained results — not because of lack of effort, but biology.
Common presentation
🧬
Metabolic Risk Profile
Pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, PCOS, or strong family history of metabolic disease may qualify you even at lower BMI thresholds.
Case by case
❤️
Cardiovascular Risk
GLP-1 agonists are now indicated for high-risk cardiovascular patients, given demonstrated reductions in major cardiac events.
Cardioprotective benefit
📋
Committed to Programme
Medication is most effective alongside dietary guidance and regular clinical review. Readiness for the full programme matters.
Holistic commitment
⚠️
Who Should Not Use GLP-1 Therapy
Personal / family history of MTC
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2
Active pancreatitis
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Severe gastrointestinal disease
Type 1 diabetes
Allergy to active ingredient
Section 03
How Your Treatment Works
A typical Leanova programme follows a structured dose escalation to maximise results and minimise side effects.
1
Weeks 1–4
Baseline Assessment & Starting Dose
Your Leanova physician reviews bloodwork, metabolic markers, and health history. You begin on the lowest therapeutic dose — typically 2.5 mg tirzepatide or equivalent. The goal in this phase is tolerance, not rapid weight loss. Most patients experience mild changes in appetite.
📋 Complete your intake labs
💉 Learn correct injection technique
📓 Start a food and symptom log
2
Weeks 5–16
Dose Escalation Phase
Dose is increased by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks, guided by your tolerance and response. Appetite suppression becomes more pronounced. Most patients begin noticing meaningful weight changes from month 2 onward. Side effects, if present, are most likely in this window.
🥗 Prioritise protein at every meal
💧 Stay very well hydrated
🚶 Add light movement daily
📞 Report anything unusual early
3
Month 4 Onward
Maintenance & Optimisation
Once at your maintenance dose, the focus shifts to metabolic health markers — visceral fat reduction, blood sugar normalisation, cardiovascular risk factors. Clinical check-ins continue monthly. Nutrition coaching and lifestyle support are integrated at this stage.
🩸 Repeat bloodwork at month 4
💪 Introduce resistance training
🧘 Sleep and stress management
4
Months 10–12+
Transition Planning
Your physician will discuss whether to continue, taper, or maintain your current dose based on your metabolic goals. Many patients continue long-term — obesity is a chronic condition. If tapering, a structured plan protects results through lifestyle foundations built over the programme.
📊 Review full metabolic panel
🎯 Set 12-month benchmarks
🔄 Plan for maintenance phase
Section 04
Dos & Don'ts
Simple, practical rules that make a real difference to your results and comfort.
✓
Do These Things
✓
Inject on the same day each week
Consistency keeps blood levels stable and side effects more predictable. Set a reminder.
✓
Eat protein first at every meal
GLP-1 slows digestion — leading with protein protects muscle mass and prolongs satiety.
✓
Drink at least 2 litres of water daily
Reduced appetite can mask thirst. Dehydration worsens nausea and fatigue significantly.
✓
Rotate your injection site
Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm — rotating prevents lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps under the skin).
✓
Attend all follow-up appointments
Dose decisions and safety monitoring depend on clinical review. Don't skip these.
✓
Keep your pen refrigerated (2–8°C)
Once opened, keep at room temperature for up to 21 days. Never freeze. Never use if cloudy.
✗
Avoid These Things
✗
Don't skip meals entirely
Even with low appetite, skipping meals leads to muscle loss and worsens nausea. Eat small, regular portions.
✗
Don't increase your dose yourself
Self-escalating is the most common reason for severe side effects. Always wait for clinical guidance.
✗
Don't drink alcohol heavily
Alcohol amplifies nausea and destabilises blood sugar. Limit to occasional, minimal amounts.
✗
Don't eat large, high-fat meals
Fatty meals sit in a slowed stomach for much longer than usual — a reliable trigger for nausea.
✗
Don't stop suddenly without guidance
Abrupt discontinuation can reverse metabolic gains rapidly. Tapering should always be clinically planned.
✗
Don't ignore persistent symptoms
Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or vision changes should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Section 05
Eating Well on GLP-1
Your appetite will change — so your approach to food needs to change with it.
🥩
Prioritise: Protein
- Eggs, chicken, fish, paneer
- Lentils, legumes, tofu
- Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese
- Aim 1.2–1.6g per kg body weight
- Always eat protein first
🥦
Fill Half Your Plate: Vegetables
- Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower
- Cucumbers, tomatoes, capsicum
- Cooked or raw — both work
- Avoid creamy preparations
- Aim for colour variety
🌾
Eat Carefully: Carbohydrates
- Prefer whole grains — oats, brown rice
- Small portions — quarter plate max
- Avoid refined carbs & white bread
- Eat carbs last in your meal
- Reduce, don't eliminate
🚫
Limit or Avoid
- Fried and heavily oiled food
- Sugary drinks and juices
- Ultra-processed snacks
- Large meals — smaller is safer
- Alcohol (especially initially)
50% Protein — the anchor of every meal. Non-negotiable on GLP-1. Protects lean muscle through the weight-loss phase.
25% Vegetables — fibre, volume, and micronutrients. Fill this portion freely. Steamed, roasted, or raw.
25% Complex Carbs — small portions, whole grain only. Eat these last. Reduce as you reach maintenance.
Healthy fats — olive oil, nuts, avocado in small amounts. Not a plate portion but important for hormones and absorption.
Section 06
Side Effects & How to Manage Them
Most side effects are temporary and dose-related. Knowing what to expect — and what to do — makes all the difference.
Common — Usually Temporary
🤢
Nausea
Most common in first 4–6 weeks. Eat slowly, avoid fatty foods, stay upright after meals. Usually resolves with dose adaptation.
🏃
Diarrhoea or Constipation
Gut motility changes are normal early on. Increase fibre, hydration, and movement. Probiotics can help.
😮💨
Fatigue / Low Energy
Often linked to reduced caloric intake. Ensure adequate protein and calories. Usually improves by week 6–8.
🔁
Burping / Acid Reflux
Eat smaller meals, chew thoroughly, avoid carbonated drinks. Don't lie down for 2+ hours after eating.
Less Common — Discuss With Your Doctor
⚡
Hypoglycaemia
More likely if on other glucose-lowering medications. Know the signs: shakiness, sweating, confusion. Carry a small snack.
💉
Injection Site Reactions
Redness, itching, or small lumps. Rotate sites. Allow pen to reach room temperature before injecting. Rare with correct technique.
❤️🩹
Heart Rate Increase
A small resting heart rate elevation (~2–4 bpm) can occur. Flagged at clinical review. Not typically concerning but monitored.
🚨
Severe Abdominal Pain
Persistent, severe upper abdominal pain — especially with vomiting — requires immediate medical attention. Stop medication and contact your doctor.
Section 07
Common Questions
Honest answers to what patients ask most.
How quickly will I see results?
Most patients notice appetite changes within 1–2 weeks. Meaningful weight loss typically begins from month 2, with more significant changes from month 4 onward as doses increase. Results continue to build over 6–12 months.
Will I regain weight if I stop?
Some weight regain is common after stopping, because obesity is a chronic condition. This is why we focus on building lasting dietary and lifestyle habits during the programme — so the foundations hold even if medication is tapered.
Is GLP-1 therapy safe long-term?
GLP-1 receptor agonists have been used clinically for over a decade for type 2 diabetes. Long-term safety data is robust. Tirzepatide is newer — 3+ years of clinical trial data shows a favourable safety profile under medical supervision.
Can I exercise on GLP-1 therapy?
Yes — and it's highly encouraged. Start light in the first month. From month 2, incorporate resistance training to protect muscle mass. Cardio supports metabolic improvement. Ensure adequate protein and caloric intake before and after workouts.
Does it interact with other medications?
GLP-1 therapy can affect the absorption timing of oral medications due to slowed gastric emptying. Inform your Leanova physician of all medications you take. Adjustments may be needed, particularly for thyroid medication and oral contraceptives.
What if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember — as long as it is within 4 days of your scheduled injection. If more than 4 days have passed, skip and resume on your next regular day. Never double-dose. Consistency is more important than perfection.
Will my muscle mass decrease?
Rapid weight loss without adequate protein can lead to muscle loss. The Leanova programme specifically counters this: high-protein dietary guidance, resistance training recommendations, and regular monitoring of lean mass versus fat mass changes.
Do I need to follow a specific diet?
No rigid meal plan is required. The key principles — protein-first, smaller portions, limited refined carbs, strong hydration — are flexible enough to work with Indian food culture. Your Leanova nutritionist will adapt guidance to your lifestyle and preferences.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. GLP-1 therapy must be prescribed and supervised by a qualified physician. Individual results, eligibility, dosing, and safety considerations vary. Consult your Leanova doctor before making any changes to your treatment.
Ready to Begin?
Start With a Clinical Conversation.
Your Leanova physician will assess whether GLP-1 therapy is right for you — and build a programme around your biology, not a template.
Complete Patient Guide
Your GLP-1
Starter Guide.
Everything you need to understand, prepare for, and make the most of GLP-1 therapy — explained clearly, without the jargon.
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist — At a Glance
Up to 12%
Weight loss · 6 months
Weekly
Injection frequency
GIP + GLP-1
Dual receptor (tirzepatide)
Medically
Supervised always
Section 01
What Is GLP-1?
Understanding the hormone your body already makes — and how therapy works with it.
GLP-1 stands for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 — a hormone your gut naturally releases after you eat. It tells your pancreas to produce insulin, signals your brain that you're full, and slows the rate at which food leaves your stomach.
In people living with obesity or type 2 diabetes, this signalling system is often blunted. GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic and amplify this hormone, restoring the feedback loop your body was meant to have.
Tirzepatide — a newer class — activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, producing stronger metabolic effects than earlier single-receptor medications. This is why clinical results with tirzepatide are consistently more significant.
These are not appetite suppressants or stimulants. They are metabolic correctors — working with your biology, not against it.
🧠
Reduces appetite signals in the brain
Acts on hunger-regulating centres to lower food cravings and reduce the reward response to food.
🫀
Stimulates insulin, suppresses glucagon
Helps normalise blood sugar by prompting insulin release only when glucose is elevated.
⏱
Slows gastric emptying
Food moves through your stomach more slowly, extending feelings of fullness after meals.
⚖️
Improves metabolic efficiency
Reduces visceral fat, improves insulin sensitivity, and lowers cardiovascular risk markers over time.
Section 02
Am I a Candidate?
GLP-1 therapy isn't one-size-fits-all. Here's who typically qualifies — and what to discuss with your doctor.
📊
BMI ≥ 30
Obesity (BMI 30+) is the primary clinical indication. GLP-1 therapy addresses the biological mechanisms driving weight retention.
Primary indication
🩺
BMI ≥ 27 + Comorbidity
Overweight individuals with type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea, or dyslipidaemia often qualify even below BMI 30.
With comorbidities
🔄
Failed Prior Interventions
Those who have tried lifestyle modification consistently without sustained results — not because of lack of effort, but biology.
Common presentation
🧬
Metabolic Risk Profile
Pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, PCOS, or strong family history of metabolic disease may qualify you even at lower BMI thresholds.
Case by case
❤️
Cardiovascular Risk
GLP-1 agonists are now indicated for high-risk cardiovascular patients, given demonstrated reductions in major cardiac events.
Cardioprotective benefit
📋
Committed to Programme
Medication is most effective alongside dietary guidance and regular clinical review. Readiness for the full programme matters.
Holistic commitment
⚠️
Who Should Not Use GLP-1 Therapy
Personal / family history of MTC
Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2
Active pancreatitis
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Severe gastrointestinal disease
Type 1 diabetes
Allergy to active ingredient
Section 03
How Your Treatment Works
A typical Leanova programme follows a structured dose escalation to maximise results and minimise side effects.
1
Weeks 1–4
Baseline Assessment & Starting Dose
Your Leanova physician reviews bloodwork, metabolic markers, and health history. You begin on the lowest therapeutic dose — typically 2.5 mg tirzepatide or equivalent. The goal in this phase is tolerance, not rapid weight loss. Most patients experience mild changes in appetite.
📋 Complete your intake labs
💉 Learn correct injection technique
📓 Start a food and symptom log
2
Weeks 5–16
Dose Escalation Phase
Dose is increased by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks, guided by your tolerance and response. Appetite suppression becomes more pronounced. Most patients begin noticing meaningful weight changes from month 2 onward. Side effects, if present, are most likely in this window.
🥗 Prioritise protein at every meal
💧 Stay very well hydrated
🚶 Add light movement daily
📞 Report anything unusual early
3
Month 4 Onward
Maintenance & Optimisation
Once at your maintenance dose, the focus shifts to metabolic health markers — visceral fat reduction, blood sugar normalisation, cardiovascular risk factors. Clinical check-ins continue monthly. Nutrition coaching and lifestyle support are integrated at this stage.
🩸 Repeat bloodwork at month 4
💪 Introduce resistance training
🧘 Sleep and stress management
4
Months 10–12+
Transition Planning
Your physician will discuss whether to continue, taper, or maintain your current dose based on your metabolic goals. Many patients continue long-term — obesity is a chronic condition. If tapering, a structured plan protects results through lifestyle foundations built over the programme.
📊 Review full metabolic panel
🎯 Set 12-month benchmarks
🔄 Plan for maintenance phase
Section 04
Dos & Don'ts
Simple, practical rules that make a real difference to your results and comfort.
✓
Do These Things
✓
Inject on the same day each week
Consistency keeps blood levels stable and side effects more predictable. Set a reminder.
✓
Eat protein first at every meal
GLP-1 slows digestion — leading with protein protects muscle mass and prolongs satiety.
✓
Drink at least 2 litres of water daily
Reduced appetite can mask thirst. Dehydration worsens nausea and fatigue significantly.
✓
Rotate your injection site
Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm — rotating prevents lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps under the skin).
✓
Attend all follow-up appointments
Dose decisions and safety monitoring depend on clinical review. Don't skip these.
✓
Keep your pen refrigerated (2–8°C)
Once opened, keep at room temperature for up to 21 days. Never freeze. Never use if cloudy.
✗
Avoid These Things
✗
Don't skip meals entirely
Even with low appetite, skipping meals leads to muscle loss and worsens nausea. Eat small, regular portions.
✗
Don't increase your dose yourself
Self-escalating is the most common reason for severe side effects. Always wait for clinical guidance.
✗
Don't drink alcohol heavily
Alcohol amplifies nausea and destabilises blood sugar. Limit to occasional, minimal amounts.
✗
Don't eat large, high-fat meals
Fatty meals sit in a slowed stomach for much longer than usual — a reliable trigger for nausea.
✗
Don't stop suddenly without guidance
Abrupt discontinuation can reverse metabolic gains rapidly. Tapering should always be clinically planned.
✗
Don't ignore persistent symptoms
Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or vision changes should be reported to your doctor immediately.
Section 05
Eating Well on GLP-1
Your appetite will change — so your approach to food needs to change with it.
🥩
Prioritise: Protein
- Eggs, chicken, fish, paneer
- Lentils, legumes, tofu
- Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese
- Aim 1.2–1.6g per kg body weight
- Always eat protein first
🥦
Fill Half Your Plate: Vegetables
- Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower
- Cucumbers, tomatoes, capsicum
- Cooked or raw — both work
- Avoid creamy preparations
- Aim for colour variety
🌾
Eat Carefully: Carbohydrates
- Prefer whole grains — oats, brown rice
- Small portions — quarter plate max
- Avoid refined carbs & white bread
- Eat carbs last in your meal
- Reduce, don't eliminate
🚫
Limit or Avoid
- Fried and heavily oiled food
- Sugary drinks and juices
- Ultra-processed snacks
- Large meals — smaller is safer
- Alcohol (especially initially)
50% Protein — the anchor of every meal. Non-negotiable on GLP-1. Protects lean muscle through the weight-loss phase.
25% Vegetables — fibre, volume, and micronutrients. Fill this portion freely. Steamed, roasted, or raw.
25% Complex Carbs — small portions, whole grain only. Eat these last. Reduce as you reach maintenance.
Healthy fats — olive oil, nuts, avocado in small amounts. Not a plate portion but important for hormones and absorption.
Section 06
Side Effects & How to Manage Them
Most side effects are temporary and dose-related. Knowing what to expect — and what to do — makes all the difference.
Common — Usually Temporary
🤢
Nausea
Most common in first 4–6 weeks. Eat slowly, avoid fatty foods, stay upright after meals. Usually resolves with dose adaptation.
🏃
Diarrhoea or Constipation
Gut motility changes are normal early on. Increase fibre, hydration, and movement. Probiotics can help.
😮💨
Fatigue / Low Energy
Often linked to reduced caloric intake. Ensure adequate protein and calories. Usually improves by week 6–8.
🔁
Burping / Acid Reflux
Eat smaller meals, chew thoroughly, avoid carbonated drinks. Don't lie down for 2+ hours after eating.
Less Common — Discuss With Your Doctor
⚡
Hypoglycaemia
More likely if on other glucose-lowering medications. Know the signs: shakiness, sweating, confusion. Carry a small snack.
💉
Injection Site Reactions
Redness, itching, or small lumps. Rotate sites. Allow pen to reach room temperature before injecting. Rare with correct technique.
❤️🩹
Heart Rate Increase
A small resting heart rate elevation (~2–4 bpm) can occur. Flagged at clinical review. Not typically concerning but monitored.
🚨
Severe Abdominal Pain
Persistent, severe upper abdominal pain — especially with vomiting — requires immediate medical attention. Stop medication and contact your doctor.
Section 07
Common Questions
Honest answers to what patients ask most.
How quickly will I see results?
Most patients notice appetite changes within 1–2 weeks. Meaningful weight loss typically begins from month 2, with more significant changes from month 4 onward as doses increase. Results continue to build over 6–12 months.
Will I regain weight if I stop?
Some weight regain is common after stopping, because obesity is a chronic condition. This is why we focus on building lasting dietary and lifestyle habits during the programme — so the foundations hold even if medication is tapered.
Is GLP-1 therapy safe long-term?
GLP-1 receptor agonists have been used clinically for over a decade for type 2 diabetes. Long-term safety data is robust. Tirzepatide is newer — 3+ years of clinical trial data shows a favourable safety profile under medical supervision.
Can I exercise on GLP-1 therapy?
Yes — and it's highly encouraged. Start light in the first month. From month 2, incorporate resistance training to protect muscle mass. Cardio supports metabolic improvement. Ensure adequate protein and caloric intake before and after workouts.
Does it interact with other medications?
GLP-1 therapy can affect the absorption timing of oral medications due to slowed gastric emptying. Inform your Leanova physician of all medications you take. Adjustments may be needed, particularly for thyroid medication and oral contraceptives.
What if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember — as long as it is within 4 days of your scheduled injection. If more than 4 days have passed, skip and resume on your next regular day. Never double-dose. Consistency is more important than perfection.
Will my muscle mass decrease?
Rapid weight loss without adequate protein can lead to muscle loss. The Leanova programme specifically counters this: high-protein dietary guidance, resistance training recommendations, and regular monitoring of lean mass versus fat mass changes.
Do I need to follow a specific diet?
No rigid meal plan is required. The key principles — protein-first, smaller portions, limited refined carbs, strong hydration — are flexible enough to work with Indian food culture. Your Leanova nutritionist will adapt guidance to your lifestyle and preferences.
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. GLP-1 therapy must be prescribed and supervised by a qualified physician. Individual results, eligibility, dosing, and safety considerations vary. Consult your Leanova doctor before making any changes to your treatment.
Ready to Begin?
Start With a Clinical Conversation.
Your Leanova physician will assess whether GLP-1 therapy is right for you — and build a programme around your biology, not a template.