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Standard weight-lossweightloss diets rarely work in the long run because they’re usually unsustainable and don’t address the root causes of weight gain. Hunger pangs, intense cravings, and plateaus are common obstacles. That’s where a variety of weight-loss medications and combination therapies—like those available from Shed—can help support sustainable results. As noted in Le Monde, GLP-1-based medications are revolutionizing obesity care and giving new hope when combined with lifestyle changes.
At Shed, we understand that achieving lasting weight loss often requires more than willpower alone. Our comprehensive approach combines proven weight-loss medications with personalized Health Coaching and ongoing support to help you finally achieve and maintain your results. Weight-loss drugs can help you stick to your weight-loss diet in the long run, ensuring consistent, sustainable results. This article explores your weight-loss medicine options so you can confidently take the first step toward your ideal weight.
What is weight-loss medication?
Weight-loss medications are pharmaceutical tools prescribed to help reduce excess weight and improve health outcomes. They typically work by:
- Suppressing appetite via hormone mimicking
- Increasing feelings of fullness and satiety
- Reducing absorption of dietary fats
These medications are available in various forms like weight-loss pills, weight-loss injections, and lozenges. They’re designed for individuals struggling with weight-related health issues who haven’t succeeded with diet and exercise alone. Effectiveness is greatest when they accompany healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet and physical activity—ideally coordinated through programs like Shed.
Types of weight-loss medications
Compounded Semaglutide
Compounded Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist primarily used for weight management. It mimics a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, which can lead to reduced hunger and calorie intake. Initially developed for diabetes management, its effectiveness in weight loss has gained significant attention. A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that adults with obesity experienced an average weight loss of 14.9% over 68 weeks on weekly semaglutide injections—far surpassing placebo results.
Compounded Semaglutide is administered through injections and, more recently, in lozenge form by Shed, providing a needle-free option. Its use is most effective alongside lifestyle changes for optimal results.
Mounjaro®
Mounjaro® is a newer class of weight-loss drug that combines the actions of both GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists. This dual mechanism enhances its effectiveness in reducing appetite and controlling blood sugar, making it a potent tool for weight management. Recent research in NEJM found that weekly tirzepatide injections (the medication in Mounjaro®) led to up to 20.9% average weight loss over 72 weeks in adults with obesity. Mounjaro® is typically administered by weekly injection and is best used as part of a comprehensive plan that includes dietary and lifestyle changes.
The Semaglutide boom
Compounded Semaglutide was initially developed as a treatment for type-2 diabetes, helping to regulate blood sugar. Developed by Novo Nordisk, it received FDA approval in 2017 under the brand name Ozempic®. Over time, members noticed a key "side effect": appetite suppression and meaningful weight loss.Semaglutide's popularity skyrocketed when clinical studies revealed its effectiveness in substantial weight loss—members taking Compounded Semaglutide typically reported reduced food cravings and fewer hunger pangs. Emerging research also suggests GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide may have added anti-inflammatory benefits, potentially supporting cardiovascular and metabolic health.
This unique effect has led to its widespread acceptance among healthcare providers and individuals seeking weight loss, making it one of the most popular weight-loss medications worldwide.
The Mounjaro® revelation
Mounjaro® is a relatively new player in the weight-loss medication arena, quickly gaining momentum for its unique dual-action mechanism. Developed by Eli Lilly and Company, Mounjaro® ( Tirzepatide) combines the effects of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists to enhance both satiety and metabolic health. This approach has led to impressive clinical outcomes: in the SURMOUNT-5 trial, Tirzepatide achieved an average weight loss of 20.2% compared to 13.7% for Semaglutide. This dual-pronged approach makes it even more effective than Semaglutide for many individuals seeking significant weight loss.
Semaglutide vs. Mounjaro® for weight loss
Semaglutide and Mounjaro® are the two leading prescription medications in weight management. Both are clinically proven, but differ in their mechanisms and efficacy. Notably, the SURMOUNT-1 trial found adults treated with Tirzepatide experienced up to 22.5% weight reduction over 72 weeks. Choosing between them depends on your health needs and consultation with a provider through Shed
Mechanism of action
Compounded Semaglutide can help promote weight loss by acting as a GLP-1 receptor agonist: it helps enhance feelings of fullness and slows gastric emptying. Mounjaro® works by combining both GLP-1 and GIP receptor mechanisms, which helps suppress appetite, boost energy expenditure, and enhance metabolic health—making it especially effective for those with metabolic challenges.
The results
Semaglutide typically results in visible weight loss within a few weeks of starting treatment—on average, people lost 5.9% at 3 months, 10.9% at 6 months, and 12–15% of body weight over 68 weeks according to clinical trials (reference).
Mounjaro® users also see swift results, with several studies showing an average weight loss of 20–22.5% over about 68–72 weeks. Results are most powerful when paired with lifestyle modification and ongoing support.
How to self-administer weight-loss injections:
- Gather: medication vial, sterile syringe + needle, alcohol wipes, cotton ball/bandage, sharps container.
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Check the vial label/expiration; inspect for discoloration or particles.
- Clean the vial’s rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe; let it dry.
- Pull air into the syringe equal to your prescribed dose.
- Insert needle into vial; push air in. Invert vial and draw the exact dose.
- Tap to move bubbles up; push out air and recheck the dose line.
- Choose site (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm). Clean with an alcohol wipe; let dry.
- Pinch a fold of skin. Insert at a 45–90° angle (per needle length/clinician guidance).
- Inject slowly and steadily; count to 10.
- Withdraw at the same angle; apply gentle pressure (don’t rub).
- Do not recap. Place syringe/needle directly into a sharps container.
- Rotate injection sites with each dose to prevent irritation.
Strictly follow the prescribed schedule—do not self-adjust. Consult Shed healthcare professionals regularly for guidance and dose adjustments.
Can you also get weight-loss pills or lozenges?
Yes, in addition to injections, weight-loss medications are available in pill and lozenge forms. Shed offers needle-free alternatives for those concerned about injectable options. Lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth, providing similar benefits to Compounded Semaglutide injections, all under the guidance of the Shed team and a licensed healthcare provider.
Weight loss diet vs. weight-loss medication
A weight-loss diet typically involves modifying food intake to create a caloric deficit. While these diets can work, adherence is difficult over time. Weight-loss medications, like those offered by Shed, help manage appetite and cravings—making it much easier to stick to your plan. The most effective approach is a combination of both: using medication to support dietary changes and sustain weight loss.
The next step: Schedule your virtual consultation
Embarking on your weight-loss journey can be exciting and overwhelming. The first step is to schedule a virtual consultation with a Shed healthcare provider. We'll help you understand your unique situation, review your health history, discuss weight-loss objectives, and outline suitable medication options—including Compounded Semaglutide—along with healthy lifestyle strategies.
After your consultation, you'll have a clear, safe, and achievable roadmap—including medication, nutrition, and exercise guidance—for your weight management journey.
