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 treatment 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 patient portal.
Long-term monitoring
Your clinician monitors treatment 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 pharmacies that source semaglutide and tirzepatide matching the active pharmaceutical ingredients used in clinical studies.
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 patients 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 during treatment. Eating smaller portions and slowing down at meals helps reduce nausea.
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. See the tirzepatide articles linked above for the switching workflow and any pricing changes.