This guide explains how GLP-1 medications and GIP/GLP-1 medications work for weight loss and blood sugar control.
Medications such as Wegovy, Ozempic, generic semaglutide, Mounjaro, and Zepbound affect appetite, digestion, and metabolism to support weight management.
Use this guide when you need to:
Understand what GLP-1 medications are
Learn how Wegovy, Ozempic, generic semaglutide, Mounjaro, or Zepbound affect your body
Understand the difference between GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medications
Check whether these medications are safe
What is a GLP-1 medication?
GLP-1 medications (such as Wegovy, Ozempic, and generic semaglutide) are glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic the effects of a natural hormone called GLP-1, which is produced in your body.
Generic semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy and Ozempic and works in the same way in your body.
How GLP-1 medications work
GLP-1 medications help with weight loss and blood sugar control by:
Reducing appetite by acting on brain signals linked to hunger
Decreasing “food noise” (frequent thoughts about eating)
Slowing down digestion so food stays in your stomach longer
Increasing feelings of fullness after eating
Helping regulate blood sugar levels
These combined effects make it easier to reduce calorie intake and maintain consistent eating habits.
What is a GIP/GLP-1 medication?
GIP/GLP-1 medications (such as Mounjaro and Zepbound) act on two hormone pathways:
GLP-1 receptors
GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors
How GIP/GLP-1 medications work
GIP/GLP-1 medications provide all the benefits of GLP-1 medications and also:
Enhance insulin release when needed
Improve insulin sensitivity
Support more effective blood sugar control
Like GLP-1 medications, GIP/GLP-1 medications also:
Reduce appetite
Lower food cravings
Support long-term weight management
How do GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medications help with weight loss?
GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medications work across multiple systems in your body.
Key effects include:
Brain: Reduce hunger signals and food cravings
Digestive system: Slow gastric emptying (digestion), helping you feel full longer
Metabolism: Improve blood sugar regulation and insulin response
These effects help you:
Eat less without feeling deprived
Reduce snacking and portion sizes
Maintain steady, sustainable weight loss
Are Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Zepbound, and generic semaglutide safe?
Yes. Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, generic semaglutide, and Zepbound are:
Clinically tested and approved for use in Canada
Prescribed by Canadian-licensed healthcare professionals
Provided only after a full clinical assessment
Generic semaglutide is approved by Health Canada and meets the same safety, quality, and manufacturing standards as branded medications.
MedExpress ensures that:
Your medical history is reviewed before prescribing
The medication is appropriate and safe for your individual circumstances
Ongoing clinical support is available during treatment
Important: MedExpress clinical assessment
MedExpress provides an online consultation where a licensed clinician determines whether GLP-1 or GIP/GLP-1 treatment is suitable for you.
MedExpress will only prescribe Wegovy, Mounjaro, Ozempic, Zepbound, or generic semaglutide if:
The treatment is clinically appropriate
The benefits outweigh any potential risks
If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.