What Are GLP-1 Medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of prescription medications that mimic a natural gut hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, they were found to produce dramatic weight loss and are now used specifically for obesity treatment.
The two most popular GLP-1 medications available in South Africa are:
- Ozempic (semaglutide) — a weekly injection approved for both diabetes and weight loss (under the brand name Wegovy at higher doses)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — a newer weekly injection that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, producing even greater weight loss in clinical trials
How Ozempic & Mounjaro Work
These medications work on multiple pathways to support sustainable weight loss:
- Appetite suppression — They signal your brain's hunger centres (hypothalamus) to feel satisfied sooner, dramatically reducing calorie intake without constant willpower
- Slowed gastric emptying — Food moves more slowly through your digestive system, keeping you fuller for longer between meals
- Blood sugar stabilisation — By reducing blood sugar spikes after meals, cravings and energy crashes are minimised
- Reduced food reward — Many users report reduced cravings for ultra-processed, high-calorie foods
- Fat metabolism — The caloric deficit achieved through appetite reduction leads to fat loss, particularly visceral (belly) fat
What Results Can You Expect?
Results vary depending on your starting weight, diet, exercise habits, and adherence to the programme. Most patients begin seeing noticeable appetite reduction within the first 2–4 weeks.
Tip: Combining GLP-1 medication with a reduced-calorie, high-protein diet and regular walking significantly amplifies results and helps preserve muscle mass.
Ozempic vs Mounjaro: Which Is Right for You?
| Feature | Ozempic (semaglutide) | Mounjaro (tirzepatide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Dual GLP-1 & GIP agonist |
| Average weight loss | 15–20% body weight | 20–22% body weight |
| Administration | Weekly subcutaneous injection | Weekly subcutaneous injection |
| Starting dose | 0.25 mg/week | 2.5 mg/week |
| Maintenance dose | 0.5–2 mg/week | 5–15 mg/week |
| Side effects | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
| Price at SlimTherapyNow | From $500/month | From $500/month |
Both medications are highly effective. Mounjaro tends to produce more weight loss but costs more. Ozempic is the most widely used and studied. Our team can help you choose the right option based on your goals and budget.
Dosage & Administration
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are given as once-weekly subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injections. Common injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Typical Ozempic titration schedule:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg once weekly (starter dose — not for weight loss, just tolerance)
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg once weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1 mg once weekly
- Week 13+: 2 mg once weekly (maximum dose)
Your healthcare provider will determine the right escalation pace based on how you tolerate each dose. Never increase the dose faster than instructed.
Side Effects & Safety
GLP-1 medications are generally well tolerated. The most common side effects occur during dose escalation and usually improve within a few weeks:
- Nausea (most common — affects ~40% of patients)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Bloating or indigestion
- Fatigue (especially early on)
- Injection site reactions (redness, itching)
Tips to minimise side effects:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid high-fat or spicy foods during the first weeks
- Stay well hydrated
- Inject on the same day each week
Who should NOT use these medications: People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), as well as those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Lifestyle Tips to Maximise Results
GLP-1 medications are powerful tools, but they work best as part of a healthy lifestyle:
- Eat high-protein meals — Protein preserves muscle during weight loss and increases satiety. Aim for 1.2–1.6 g protein per kg of body weight.
- Walk daily — Even 30 minutes of walking per day significantly boosts fat loss and improves mood.
- Stay hydrated — Drink at least 2 litres of water per day. Dehydration can worsen nausea.
- Limit ultra-processed foods — They tend to override the appetite suppression signal. Focus on whole foods.
- Sleep 7–9 hours — Poor sleep increases hunger hormones and sabotages weight loss.
- Track your progress — Weigh yourself weekly (same time, same conditions) to monitor trends.
- Be patient — Weight loss is not linear. Expect some weeks with no change. Trust the process.
GLP-1 Medications in South Africa
Ozempic and Mounjaro are available in South Africa through licensed healthcare providers. Demand has surged significantly since 2024, making reliable sourcing important.
How SlimTherapyNow helps you:
- We connect you with genuine, pharmacy-sourced Ozempic and Mounjaro
- Fast, discreet delivery nationwide
- WhatsApp-based ordering — simple and convenient
- Competitive pricing from $500/month for Ozempic
- Ongoing support and guidance throughout your weight loss journey
Frequently Asked Questions
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