Understanding GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss: What Every Patient Should Know
- tealfoster9
- Jun 26
- 4 min read
Why Knowing GLP-1 Terms Matters for Your Weight Loss Journey
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Zepbound®) are transforming the weight loss landscape. But with this new wave of treatment comes a whole new vocabulary — and it can get overwhelming fast.
If you’re on a GLP-1 weight loss journey (or considering it), this guide breaks down common terms so you can feel empowered and informed every step of the way.
This glossary is based on definitions curated by GLP-1 educator and physician Dr. Daniel Rosen. You can find more of his insights on his video content here ».
GLP-1 Response Categories and What They Mean
Not everyone responds to GLP-1s the same way — and that’s okay. Here’s how providers often categorize your response to these weight loss medications.
How Providers Categorize Response to GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications:
Regular Responder
Losing 1 to 3 pounds per week on a GLP-1 medication
Slow Responder
Losing 0.5 to 1 pound per week
Non-Responder
Losing less than 0.5 pounds per week. This may require reassessment of dose, lifestyle habits, or adjunct options.
Super Responder
Losing more than 3 pounds per week — often early in treatment or after dose escalation.
Dosing Terms for GLP-1 Medications
Understanding how GLP-1s are used and adjusted can help you work with your provider to personalize your weight loss plan.
Microdosing
Taking less than the lowest available commercial dose weekly.
< 2.5 mg tirzepatide
< 0.25 mg semaglutide
Splitting Doses
Dividing your weekly dose into smaller injections throughout the week. For example, taking 1 mg three times a week = 3 mg total. (Note: This is not microdosing — it’s dose splitting.)
Top-Off Dose / Turbo Boost
Adding a small mid-week injection to help carry hunger control through to your next scheduled dose.
Supratherapeutic Dosing
Going above the highest standard commercial dose to break through a plateau. Used cautiously and usually under medical supervision.
Advanced Support: Adjunct Medications and Peptide Stacking
Adjuncts
Prescription medications added to enhance weight loss or metabolic support. May include:
Phentermine
Topiramate
Bupropion
Naltrexone
Metformin
Stacking
Adding non-prescription peptides alongside your GLP-1 therapy. Examples include:
Tesamorelin
CJC-1295 with DAC
Sermorelin
AOD-9604
(Note: These are not FDA-approved for weight loss but may support metabolism, growth hormone, or fat breakdown.)
Maintenance and Transition: Navigating Long-Term Use
Cushion
Losing an extra 3–5 pounds beyond your weight loss goal to allow for natural fluctuations and regain — a smart long-term maintenance tactic.
Weaning Down
Gradually reducing your GLP-1 dose rather than stopping cold turkey. Helps the body adjust and may reduce the risk of rebound hunger or weight gain.
Stretching the Interval
Spacing your injections beyond the typical 7-day schedule (e.g., every 10–14 days). Can help reduce GLP-1 medication use while maintaining your weight loss results — often used in maintenance phases.
Why This Matters
Every person’s GLP-1 and weight loss journey is unique. Whether you’re microdosing, adding adjuncts, or easing into a maintenance plan, knowing these terms helps you advocate for your health and collaborate confidently with your provider.
Personalized GLP-1 Care at Refine Wellness Clinic
At Refine Wellness Clinic, we believe in precision dosing, expert guidance, and a human approach to weight loss. No judgment. No shame. Just personalized, evidence-based care.
Want to learn more or find out what kind of responder you are?
Book a consultation and let’s create a treatment plan tailored to your goals.
Trademark Disclaimer: Wegovy® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. Zepbound® is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company. Refine Wellness Clinic is an independent provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly. All product names, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used solely for descriptive purposes.
Frequently Asked Questions About GLP-1 Weight Loss Medication
What is a regular weight loss response on GLP-1 medications?
A regular GLP-1 weight loss response typically means losing 1 to 3 pounds per week on medications like semaglutide (Wegovy®) or tirzepatide (Zepbound®), depending on your dosage and lifestyle.
What does microdosing mean in GLP-1 therapy?
Microdosing refers to taking less than the lowest standard commercial dose of semaglutide or tirzepatide, allowing for a gentle introduction and fewer side effects.
What are adjunct medications in GLP-1 weight loss treatment?
Adjuncts are prescription medications like phentermine, bupropion, or metformin added to your GLP-1 plan to support metabolism, appetite control, or insulin sensitivity.
What is peptide stacking and is it safe?
Peptide stacking involves combining non-prescription peptides like CJC-1295 or AOD-9604 with GLP-1s to enhance fat loss or hormone support. These are not FDA-approved for weight loss and should be used under medical guidance.
How does stretching the interval between GLP-1 doses work?
Stretching the interval means spacing GLP-1 injections beyond the typical 7-day cycle — such as every 10 to 14 days — to reduce medication use while maintaining weight loss results.
What’s the benefit of having a cushion in GLP-1 weight loss?
A cushion refers to intentionally losing 3–5 extra pounds beyond your goal weight. This strategy helps maintain weight loss results during fluctuations or minor weight regain after stopping treatment.
ABOUT TEAL FOSTER, DNP, FNP-C
Founder of Refine Wellness Clinic, Stillwater MN
With over 15 years of diverse clinical experience, Dr. Teal Foster is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and founder of Refine Wellness Clinic in Stillwater, MN. Her background spans emergency medicine, women’s health, concierge care, and aesthetics, uniquely positioning her to deliver results-driven, personalized treatments. Teal combines her medical expertise with a passion for wellness and beauty, helping patients look and feel their best at every stage of life. At Refine, her approach is collaborative, compassionate, and rooted in evidence-based care—focused on empowering each patient through customized hormone therapy, advanced skin rejuvenation, and holistic health solutions.
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