Alright, mamas, we made it through the first month of GLP-1s! If you’re like me, you probably had a mix of “Wow, this is working!” and “Oh my god, is this fatigue ever going to end?”

Now, we’re hitting month two, which often means an increased dose. Buckle up, buttercups, because things can shift a bit. Let’s dive into what to expect, based on my experience shall we?

Weight Loss

I was not one of the lucky ones that lost 20 pounds my first month on Mounjaro. And, that’s frankly, to be expected. The 2.5 mg dose is not considered therapeutic. It is part of the titration schedule to get your body used to the effects of the drug. But, I did have a debate about whether to continue in my second month based on the scant results and immense fatigue. I can say I’m thrilled that I continued. It’s been life changing to lose 140 pounds and brought so many positive things to my life…but it was a journey through the dosage titration to get here.

Dosage Adjustments: The Next Level

Most GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro, follow a titration schedule. This means your doctor gradually increases your dose to minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness. By month two, you’re likely moving up to the next dose level. This can be a bit of a wild card.

What to Expect Physically:

• Side Effects: The Encore (or Fade Out?)
  • For some, the increased dose can bring back those familiar side effects from month one, like nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. But here’s the good news: often, they’re less intense and shorter-lived this time around.
  • If you were lucky and barely experienced side effects in month one, you might get a little taste of them now. Don’t panic! It’s usually temporary and here are a few items that got me through the worst side effects.

• Appetite Suppression: Amplified or Adjusted?
  • The appetite suppression you experienced in month one might intensify. You might find you’re even less interested in food, which can be both a blessing and a bit concerning.
  • Conversely, some women find that the initial “whoa” factor wears off a bit. You might notice a slight increase in appetite, but it’s still significantly less than before starting the medication.
• Weight Loss: The Plateau Buster?
  • If you hit a plateau in month one, the increased dose can help kickstart weight loss again.
  • Even if you were consistently losing weight, you might see a more noticeable drop this month.
  • I found focusing on habits that reduced inflammation in my body sped up my weight gain. For example, drinking tons of water with electrolytes, moving my body on short walks, using a vibration plate and using red light saunas helped bust my plateaus.

• Energy Levels: The Great Unknown
  • Some women report feeling more energetic as their bodies adjust. Others experience fatigue, especially if they’re not eating enough. Listen to your body and prioritize rest when needed.
  • In this new world of no food noise, I found I needed an alarm on my phone to encourage a midday meal. Often during the first week of a dosage increase this was just a quick snack of saltines and peanut butter (if my nausea allowed), a protein shake, or a meat stick and sliced apple. This helped with fatigue, and helped also with reducing negative feelings. That Snickers commercial just might be right about being hangry.

What to Expect Mentally:

• Food Noise: Still Shushed?
  • Hopefully, the food noise that plagued you before GLP-1s is still significantly quieter. But with the increased dose, you might experience a renewed sense of freedom from food obsession.
• Emotional Eating: The Challenge Lingers
  • GLP-1s help with physiological hunger, but emotional eating is a different beast. If you struggle with this, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor.
• Body Image: A Work in Progress
  • Weight loss can be exciting, but it’s important to maintain a healthy perspective. Focus on how you feel, not just the number on the scale.
  • Keep a list of Non-Scale Victories in your phone notes or a journal. This can be anything from not feeling plantar fascitis anymore to being able to reach a towel all the way around you after the shower.

Practical Tips for Month Two:

• Hydration is Still Key: Keep chugging that water! It helps with everything, from side effects to overall well-being.
• Prioritize Protein: Ensure you’re getting enough protein to maintain muscle mass and keep you feeling full.
• Mindful Eating: Even with appetite suppression, practice mindful eating. Pay attention to your body’s cues and savor your meals.
• Gentle Exercise: If you’re feeling up to it, incorporate gentle exercise into your routine. Walking, yoga, or swimming are great options.
• Communicate with Your Doctor: Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience any concerning side effects or have questions about your dosage.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a journal of your weight, side effects, and overall well-being. This can help you and your doctor monitor your progress.
• Find Your Tribe: Connect with other women on GLP-1s. Online communities and support groups can provide valuable support and encouragement.

The Bottom Line:

Month two on GLP-1s is a time of adjustment. Be patient with yourself, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. We’re all in this together, trying to navigate the ups and downs of weight loss. So, take a deep breath, and keep moving forward. (If you’re nauseous, take a deep breath sniffing the sanitizer wipe to provide a brief moment of respite from your nausea.)

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