GLP-1 medications, including medicines such as Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, are used for conditions such as obesity, weight management, and type 2 diabetes. They can help some people lose a significant amount of weight and may also improve blood sugar and certain heart or kidney-related health risks in specific populations.

Weight loss from GLP-1 medications usually comes mostly from body fat, but some loss of lean mass or fat-free mass can also happen. That does not automatically mean these medications cause frailty, but it does mean that strength, nutrition, exercise, and function matter.

Physical therapy can help people taking GLP-1 medications by improving strength, balance, joint pain, walking tolerance, exercise confidence, and long-term movement habits. PTs can also help you track what your body can do, not just what the scale says.

Physical therapists do not manage your medication, dosing, or side effects. Those questions should go to your prescribing provider or pharmacist. But your PT can help you notice symptoms that may affect exercise safety and communicate with the rest of your healthcare team when needed.

A good care team may include your physician, physical therapist, pharmacist, registered dietitian, mental health professional, and other providers depending on your needs. The goal is not just weight loss. The goal is helping you feel stronger, safer, more capable, and more connected to your body.