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Weight Loss Protocol: Overview

Everything you need to know about the Maximus Weight Loss Protocol — how GLP-1 medications work, what to expect, side effects, and frequently asked questions.

Recent updates to weight loss plans: We've moved standard tirzepatide and semaglutide plans to a monthly billing format with a single price covering all doses.

The Maximus Weight Loss Protocol uses clinician-guided GLP-1 medications to support sustainable weight loss by influencing appetite, blood glucose, and energy balance. For details on labs, refills, and shipping, see Weight Loss Protocol: Labs, Refills, and Shipping.

How the protocol works

The protocol uses two GLP-1 medications:

  • Semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist

  • Tirzepatide — a dual GLP-1 + GIP receptor agonist (often described as a "step up" from semaglutide because it acts on two pathways instead of one)

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are never taken simultaneously. Your clinician determines which medication is appropriate based on your medical history, lab results, and goals, and may adjust the choice over time. In some cases, GLP-1 therapy may be combined with sermorelin or enclomiphene to support body composition goals.

Who the protocol may be for

The Weight Loss Protocol may be appropriate if you:

  • Are seeking clinician-guided weight management support

  • Are interested in GLP-1 or GLP-1 + GIP medications

  • Have goals related to metabolic health, appetite regulation, or blood glucose

Eligibility is determined by your clinician based on labs, symptoms, and health history.

Who it may not be for

Some individuals are better suited to a different approach depending on:

  • Medical history

  • Current medications

  • Specific health conditions

Your clinician determines whether the protocol is appropriate for you during intake.

What to expect

Results vary based on individual health history, habits, and goals. GLP-1 medications work gradually — most changes build over weeks and months, not days.

Early weeks — most individuals notice changes in appetite first: feeling full sooner, fewer cravings, less interest in snacking. Some experience this within days; others more gradually. Both patterns are normal.

Ongoing progress — as appetite stabilizes, individuals often find it easier to eat smaller portions, feel satisfied with less food, and maintain more consistent energy throughout the day. Weight-loss pace varies based on starting point, lifestyle, consistency with medication, and individual metabolic response.

If you're not seeing changes yet — a slower start does not mean the protocol isn't working. GLP-1 medications act on hormonal pathways that take time to influence appetite, behavior, and body composition. Your clinician evaluates both your reported experience and overall progress.

Day-to-day variability — appetite and energy can fluctuate. Short-term variability is normal and does not determine whether the protocol is working. Your clinician evaluates longer-term trends.

Side effects

GLP-1 medications are well-studied. Like all medications, they can cause side effects. Most are temporary and improve as your body adjusts.

Common side effects (often resolve within the first few weeks of starting or after a dose increase):

  • Mild nausea

  • Diarrhea or loose stools

  • Constipation

  • Reduced appetite

  • Occasional stomach discomfort

Less common:

  • Fatigue

  • Bloating

  • Mild headaches

  • Changes in taste or food preferences

When to seek urgent or emergency care:

  • Severe abdominal pain

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Signs of dehydration

  • Shortness of breath or chest pain

  • Any severe or rapidly worsening symptom

For non-urgent concerns, message your clinician through your Maximus dashboard.

Long-term monitoring

Your clinician monitors your protocol over time through:

  • Periodic labs

  • Symptom check-ins

  • Progress reviews

Adjustments to your dose, medication choice, or frequency are made when clinically appropriate.

Medication quality

Maximus partners with licensed 503A compounding pharmacies that source semaglutide and tirzepatide matching the active pharmaceutical ingredients used in clinical studies. The pharmacy fulfilling your specific prescription may vary based on your state. All Maximus partner pharmacies meet appropriate state accreditation and clinical standards.

Plan and pricing details

For pricing — including the $120 first-order discount, and where existing members can view their current rate — see Weight Loss Plan Pricing.

For the recent plan updates and what changed for existing members, see Updates to Your Weight Loss Plan.

For state-specific availability of GLP-1 medications, see GLP-1 Availability by State.

To view your specific monthly rate, log in and visit Manage Account in your dashboard.

FAQ

How long until I see results? Appetite changes often appear within the first one to two weeks. Weight changes typically build over weeks to months. Your clinician evaluates progress over a longer window than day-to-day fluctuations.

Can I drink alcohol on GLP-1 therapy? GLP-1 medications can change how your body processes alcohol — some members report feeling effects more quickly or experiencing nausea with smaller amounts. If you choose to drink, moderation is generally recommended.

Should I change my diet? You don't have to follow a specific diet, but balanced nutrition, hydration, and adequate protein support how you feel on the protocol. Eating smaller portions and slowing down at meals helps reduce nausea. For more guidance, see Nutrition & Lifestyle Basics on the Weight Loss Protocol.

What if I miss a dose? Do not double up. If you miss a dose, contact your clinician for guidance — the right next step depends on how late you are and your current dose.

Can I switch between semaglutide and tirzepatide? Switching is possible and is determined by your clinician based on your response, side effects, and goals.

Still have questions? For questions about your symptoms, dosing, or progress, message your clinician through your Maximus dashboard. For questions about scheduling, labs, refills, or shipping, see Weight Loss Protocol: Labs, Refills, and Shipping.

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