Many Americans are currently using a GLP-1 medication (such as semaglutide or tirzepatide) to manage their type 2 diabetes, or to help with weight management. These are all peptide drugs: short chains of amino acids that mimic hormones produced by our bodies. If you want the basics first, here is a plain-English guide to peptides.

Many people are surprised how much you will be managing at home between appointments. Using some simple devices will really help you and your doctor to understand how well your medication is working. Here are some useful devices and why they may be useful.

1. Accurate Scale

While it may seem obvious to track your weight while on a GLP-1 medication, you should not be checking this every hour. However using an accurate scale will help you understand the overall trend over the weeks.

Things to look out for:

• Provides consistent results when stepping on twice.
• Has a memory or app.
• Body composition features are a bonus however these are only estimates.

Try to weigh yourself at the same time each day preferably in the mornings. Focus on the average each week.

2. Blood Pressure Monitor

Weight loss can often cause a drop in your blood pressure. Sometimes this will need adjustments to your medication. GLP-1 medications can cause a slight increase in your resting heart rate. Using a blood pressure machine will help provide your doctor with accurate information.

Use a cuff that goes around your upper arm. Ensure it is clinically validated and the correct size for your arm. Many will also show your pulse. If you are on blood pressure medication ask your doctor what readings you should be calling them about.

3. Glucose Meter or Continuous Monitoring (if diabetic)

If you have type 2 diabetes then hypoglycemia is rarely a problem when taking a GLP-1 medication alone. The risk does increase when it is combined with insulin or older tablet medications called sulfonylureas. Therefore it is important to monitor your glucose levels at home.

Finger-prick meters are cheap and accurate enough to help you check.

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) will help you understand the trends throughout the day. Some can also alert you to low glucose levels. Some are now available over-the-counter in the US.

If you are not diabetic then you will generally not need to monitor your glucose levels. Ask your doctor before purchasing.

4. Kitchen Food Scale

GLP-1 medications reduce appetite. Many people will just eat less. However eating too little can cause a lack of proteins. This can impact muscle retention while losing weight. Having a small kitchen scale will help to see what a real portion looks like. At least in the first few weeks.

5. Fridge Thermometer

The injectable versions of the GLP-1 medication are sensitive to temperatures. Most pens will need to stay in the fridge if unused. They should never be frozen. If they freeze do not use them.

Having a simple thermometer in your fridge (not in the freezer area) will help you know what temperature they are at. Always follow the instructions on the label. Different medications will have different requirements. Un-used pens will have different requirements to those in-use.

6. Sharps Container

Used pen needles should go into a puncture-proof sharps container. FDA-cleared sharps containers can be purchased from most pharmacies. Once it is about 3/4 full, follow your state or local disposal guidelines. Many pharmacies and community programs will take them.

7. Measured Water Bottle

The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, especially when the dose is increased. This can cause dehydration and put strain on your kidneys. Having a measured bottle will help ensure you are drinking enough.

When to See a Doctor

While these devices are useful, you will still need to see a doctor periodically. They will want to perform some blood tests. They may want to check your kidney function, and your A1C if you have diabetes. They will also want to discuss any side effects you are experiencing. If you are experiencing severe or ongoing abdominal pain, signs of dehydration or symptoms of hypoglycemia seek medical attention.

Understanding how GLP-1 medications work can also help. Knowing why you are experiencing side effects will help you manage them and explain them to your team.

Summary

Having a scale, upper arm blood pressure machine, glucose meter (if diabetic), fridge thermometer and sharps container will really help give a clearer understanding of how your treatment is going. It also makes it safer.

This article is for educational purposes only. Please speak to your healthcare provider to determine which devices are suitable for you and what readings you should be calling them about.