GLP-1 medications have become an important part of evidence-based care for chronic weight management. As interest in these medications continues to grow, so does confusion around how they work, who they are appropriate for, how to access them safely, and how they should be used.
Dr. Tariq Shivji, MD, a family physician and weight management specialist at HealthOne Medical and Wellness Centre, says much of this confusion stems from how these medications are often discussed outside of a broader clinical context. With multiple options available, choosing the right medication depends on the individual and their overall health profile. While these medications can be highly effective, they are not a standalone solution and work best as part of an integrated approach to care.
That approach can include coordinated support from a physician, nutritionist, and mental health professional, helping patients address the medical, behavioural, and lifestyle factors that contribute to long-term weight management., that approach can include coordinated support from a physician, nutritionist, and mental health professional, helping patients address the medical, behavioural, and lifestyle factors that contribute to long-term weight management.
Choosing the right treatment approach, along with medical supervision and ongoing lifestyle support, plays a critical role in achieving safe and sustainable outcomes. In this article, Dr. Shivji answers common questions he hears from patients and explains how these medications fit into a comprehensive, medically guided approach to weight management.
GLP-1 medications can be a good option for people whose weight is starting to impact their overall health. That includes adults living with obesity, as well as those who are overweight and dealing with related conditions like high blood pressure, fatty liver disease, or sleep apnea.
They’re often used when someone has been making consistent lifestyle changes but isn’t seeing the progress they need, or when weight is contributing to other ongoing health concerns. That said, they work best as part of a broader, physician-guided approach, not on their own.
GLP-1 medications are often seen as a quick solution for weight loss, but that’s not how they’re meant to be used. Obesity is a chronic medical condition that requires long-term management, and medication is only one part of that process.
The first step is understanding the individual. What are their health goals? What does their medical history look like? What have they already tried when it comes to weight loss? Those are all important factors that help determine whether medication is the right fit and how it should be used.
With that in mind, treatment needs to be personalized, based on each person’s history, goals, and how they respond over time. Lasting results come from a combination of nutrition, behaviour changes, and regular follow-up.
Not all GLP-1 medications are interchangeable. In Canada, Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, not specifically for chronic weight management. While some patients look to Ozempic because of cost, it isn’t always an appropriate substitute.
For those exploring treatment options, there are several prescription medications approved for long-term weight management in Canada, including Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, Contrave, Xenical, and Imcivree. These medications are used for different purposes and at different doses, so they aren’t always equivalent.
Choosing the right medication depends on a number of factors, including medical history, metabolic risk, treatment goals, and how well someone tolerates the medication. It’s something that should be decided in consultation with a physician who has experience in weight management.
Before starting treatment, the first step is a thorough medical assessment to make sure the medication is appropriate and safe. That usually begins with a patient-led discussion about what they’ve tried in the past to lose weight, followed by a detailed look at medical history, any relevant lab work, and screening for factors that could affect how the medication is used.
There’s also a conversation around what to expect, including potential benefits, possible side effects, and how treatment will be managed over time. From there, a personalized plan is put in place, along with a follow-up schedule to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
Yes, ongoing supervision is an important part of treatment. Follow-up is tailored to the individual, and it’s common for dosing to be adjusted over time based on how someone is responding.
Side effects should be addressed early, and in some cases, additional support from a dietitian or mental health professional can be helpful. Having that kind of structured support in place helps ensure treatment stays both safe and effective over the long term.
While these medications are often associated with weight loss, their role goes beyond that. They support metabolic health, help regulate blood sugar, and can reduce longer-term health risks linked to obesity.
For that reason, treatment isn’t focused on weight alone. The goal is to improve overall health, which includes monitoring how a patient responds both internally and physically over time.
At HealthOne, that can include reviewing health markers, symptoms, side effects, lifestyle habits, and body composition, such as muscle mass and body fat percentage. Tracking body composition can be especially helpful for patients who are concerned about losing muscle or bone mass, which can be a risk during weight-loss treatment. These insights help the team devise a plan that supports fat loss while helping preserve muscle mass, strength, and overall health.
There are certain symptoms that should be checked right away. These include severe or persistent abdominal pain, ongoing vomiting, signs of an allergic reaction, or anything that feels new or concerning.
It’s also important to seek medical attention if any existing health conditions start to worsen during treatment. Getting assessed early helps make sure any issues are addressed before they become more serious.
As demand for GLP-1 medications continues to grow, it’s important to be mindful of where and how these treatments are being accessed. There has been an increase in counterfeit and unauthorized versions being sold online and through unregulated sources.
Health Canada has warned that some of these products haven’t been assessed for safety, effectiveness, or quality, and may be marketed using misleading claims. These versions can carry real risks, including incorrect dosing, contamination, or unknown ingredients.
That’s why it’s important to work with a qualified healthcare provider. A physician can make sure the medication is appropriate, prescribe the right dose, and monitor progress over time to support both safety and long-term results.
MD, CCFP, DABOM
Family Doctor, Weight Management Specialist & ABOM Diplomate
Dr. Shivji began his studies at McMaster University in Hamilton, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences. He went on to complete his medical training at St. George’s University, which allowed him to do clinical training in Brooklyn as well as a transfer program in the UK. While completing his residency in Philadelphia, Dr. Shivji discovered his passion for helping people one-on-one. He began focusing his practice on preventive and obesity medicine and helping people achieve their health-related goals. He recently held his own cooking class series to demonstrate healthy recipes for his clients.
For patients interested in a structured, medical approach to weight management, consultations are available at HealthOne’s Harbourfront location. A physician-guided assessment can help determine whether GLP-1 medications or other treatment options are appropriate, based on individual health needs and goals.
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This article was developed by HealthOne’s editorial team in collaboration with Dr. Tariq Shivji, Family Physician, Weight Management Specialist, and ABOM Diplomate.
The information provided is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. For guidance specific to your health needs, please consult a HealthOne clinician or your healthcare provider.