GLP-1 & Medical Weight Loss Glossary
Plain-language definitions of the terms you'll encounter in medical weight loss, reviewed by Dr. Anjmun Sharma, M.D.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1)
A natural gut hormone released after eating that signals fullness to the brain, slows stomach emptying, and helps regulate blood sugar. GLP-1 receptor agonist medications (semaglutide, tirzepatide) mimic this hormone to reduce appetite.
Semaglutide
A GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management, the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic. In clinical trials it produced about 15% average body-weight loss. New Hope Weight Loss prescribes compounded semaglutide under physician supervision.
Tirzepatide
A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound. By activating two gut-hormone pathways it produced about 22.5% average body-weight loss in trials, the highest of any studied weight medication.
GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide)
A second gut hormone involved in insulin and fat metabolism. Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which is why it is described as 'dual-action.'
Food noise
The constant mental preoccupation with food, thinking about the next meal, fighting cravings, and negotiating with yourself throughout the day. GLP-1 medications quiet this hormonal hunger signal, which patients describe as the most transformative effect.
Compounded medication
A medication prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy for an individual patient, using the same active ingredient as a brand-name drug. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved products and are not identical to the brand; they are a legal, physician-supervised option.
503A pharmacy
A state-licensed compounding pharmacy that prepares customized medications pursuant to a prescription for an individual patient, regulated under section 503A of the U.S. Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Titration
The gradual increase of a medication dose over time. GLP-1 therapy is titrated upward over weeks so the body adjusts and gastrointestinal side effects stay manageable.
BMI (body mass index)
A weight-to-height ratio used as an initial screening measure. GLP-1 medications are generally indicated for a BMI of 30+ (obesity), or 27+ with a weight-related condition. BMI is a screening tool, not a complete picture of health.
Insulin resistance
A condition in which cells respond poorly to insulin, prompting the pancreas to produce more. High insulin drives abdominal fat storage and hunger, making weight loss difficult. GLP-1 therapy improves blood-sugar regulation.
Lipotropic / MIC injection
An injection of methionine, inositol, and choline (often with B12) used as an optional energy and metabolic add-on alongside a weight-loss program. It is a complement to GLP-1 therapy, not a substitute.
Telehealth (telemedicine)
The delivery of medical care remotely by secure video and messaging. New Hope Weight Loss is physically located in Costa Mesa, CA and serves patients elsewhere by telehealth, consultation, prescription, and follow-ups online, with medication shipped to the patient.
Contraindication
A specific health condition or factor that makes a treatment inadvisable. The medical intake form screens for GLP-1 contraindications (such as a personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN-2) before any prescription.
Compounded vs brand-name
Brand-name GLP-1 products (Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound) are FDA-approved and made by Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly. Compounded versions use the same active ingredient but are prepared per-prescription by a 503A pharmacy and are not FDA-approved or identical to the brand.
Note: These definitions are educational and do not replace professional medical advice.
New Hope Weight Loss | 1503 South Coast Drive, Suite 322, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 | (657) 837-3342
Wegovy® and Ozempic® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. New Hope Weight Loss is not affiliated with Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved products.