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Side Effects & Safety of the Weight Loss Protocol

Explains potential side effects and safety considerations associated with weight loss treatments.

Updated this week

This article applies specifically to the Weight Loss treatment plan.

Requirements may differ for other Maximus programs.
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Side Effects & Safety for the Weight Loss Protocol

GLP-1 and GLP-1 + GIP medications used in the Weight Loss Protocol are well-studied and support weight loss and metabolic health.

Like all medications, they may cause side effects for some individuals. Your clinician determines whether this treatment is safe and appropriate based on your health history, symptoms, and lab results.

Common Side Effects

Many side effects are related to how these medications affect digestion and appetite. These may include:

  • mild nausea

  • diarrhea or loose stools

  • constipation

  • reduced appetite

  • occasional stomach discomfort

These effects are often temporary and may improve as your body adjusts.

If symptoms persist or become uncomfortable, you can message your clinician.

Less Common Effects

Some individuals may experience:

  • fatigue

  • bloating

  • mild headaches

  • changes in taste or food preferences

These experiences vary and are not necessarily a sign of a problem. Your clinician can help assess what is typical for you.

Serious or Concerning Symptoms

Although uncommon, certain symptoms may require prompt medical attention.

Seek urgent care if you experience:

  • severe abdominal pain

  • persistent vomiting

  • signs of dehydration

  • shortness of breath

  • chest pain

  • any severe or rapidly worsening symptom

For non-urgent concerns, message your clinician through your patient portal.

Managing Side Effects

If side effects occur, your clinician may provide guidance to help you manage symptoms.

Any adjustments to your treatment depend on:

  • your health history

  • your current treatment plan

  • how you are responding

Long-Term Safety Monitoring

Your clinician monitors your treatment over time to ensure it remains safe and appropriate.

This may include:

  • periodic lab testing

  • symptom check-ins

  • review of your overall health

  • evaluation of your response to treatment

All decisions are based on clinical judgment, your reported experience, and your lab results.

Medication Quality

Maximus works with pharmacy partners that source the base form of semaglutide and tirzepatide.

These medications match the active pharmaceutical ingredients used in clinical studies, helping ensure consistency and avoiding untested or chemically different variants.

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