Navigating Low-Appetite Days

College of Osteopathic Medicine Assistant Professor Eleanor Yusupov, D.O., is featured in a Weight Watchers blog post about safely navigating low-appetite days while taking weight loss medications like GLP-1s. A normal, common side effect, low appetite typically occurs within the first 24 to 48 hours after an injection, according to Yusupov, and then gradually increases throughout the week. During this time, it is important that patients consume small, nutrient-dense meals and snacks.

“People taking GLP-1 medications not only feel less hungry, but may also not feel thirsty and therefore forget to drink water,” says Yusupov, who recommends patients call their doctor if they experience symptoms like very low appetite and nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea.