Starting a GLP-1 medication like Zepbound, Wegovy, or compounded tirzepatide is a big step. It’s normal to feel a bit unsure about what to have on hand, especially when side effects can vary so much from person to person.
At GLPology, we’re here to help you plan smart and stay realistic. Here’s a straightforward look at what you might want in your Month 1 GLP-1 starter kit—what’s worth having ready, what can wait, and how to keep things manageable for your budget.
These items were selected because I’ve personally used them on my GLP-1 journey—or they’re heavily vetted by the broader GLP-1 community. I’m a planner by nature and like to feel prepared when starting something new. But this list isn’t just for you—it’s also perfect if you have a close friend or partner starting GLP-1s and you want to make a little care package for them. A small gesture can go a long way in those first few weeks.
We know the cost of getting started on GLP-1 meds can add up fast. Here’s the thing: you don’t have to buy everything upfront. Many of these items are nice to have—but not all are essential for everyone.
1. Hydration is key from day one. The larger the water bottle you can reasonably lug around, the better. Mine is 40oz and I bring to every meeting so I don't forget. Aim for
at least 64-100oz (about 2-3 liters) of water per day.
2. Electrolytes: GLP-1 meds can slow digestion and reduce thirst cues—some people end up mildly dehydrated without even realizing it! LMNT (or any balanced electrolyte mix) can be a lifesaver for managing nausea, dizziness, and fatigue during those early weeks.
3. Sharps Container: This applies to users of the pen (e.g. Ozempic, Zepbound) or syringes for vial users or compounded GLP-1s. They must be treated like sharps waste and should either be disposed in a Sharps container or a heavy-duty plastic container (e.g. empty laundry detergent bottle) with a tight-fitting, puncture resistant lid. When full, seal it up and check local rules for household sharps disposal.
Do NOT throw in the trash / toilet.
4. Alcohol Wipes, Needles and Syringes (Compounded GLP-1 Users Only): Your provider / pharmacy will typically provide syringes and wipes with your shipment but some do charge extra for this and it's also helpful if you are doing non-standard dosing (e.g. split dosing, dosing every 5 days, etc.) More details on dosing
here.
5. Fiber Support: GLP-1 meds can slow down digestion, and constipation can sneak up—especially if you’re not eating as much. Fiber like Benefiber is an easy, gentle way to help keep things moving without adding extra calories or sugar. It's also a prebiotic—a food source for the healthy bacteria in your gut.
6. Protein Support: Ensuring sufficient protein intake is non-negotiable. Ideally you're getting this from real food but there will be days when you just need a boost and these options are quick and convenient:
Orgain or Fairlife Protein Shakes, VitalProteins Collagen Peptides (Bonus collagen to prevent or mitigate hair loss) and Protein Bars (e.g. Barebells).
1. Fatigue, Headaches & Other Common Adjustments: Some people experience mild headaches, fatigue, or dizziness as their body adjusts to the medication.
Here’s what to have on hand:
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Headaches & Aches: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is gentle on the stomach.
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Fatigue & Low Energy: Consider a B12 supplement—B12 is key for energy and may help if you’re feeling run down.
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Dizziness / Nausea: Dramamine can be helpful if dizziness sticks around in the first few days.
Pro tip: Hydration can make a huge difference. Dehydration can sneak up on GLP-1 users, making fatigue, headaches, and constipation worse.
2. Digestive & Nausea Relief: GLP-1s can slow digestion and bring on a mix of tummy troubles, especially in the early weeks. Here’s what can help:
- Nausea Relief: Ginger Chews & Emetrol Chewables—natural and medicated options to calm queasiness.
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Constipation Support: MiraLAX – A safe osmotic laxative if constipation becomes more persistent.
Mag07 – A magnesium-based colon cleanse supplement that can offer gentle overnight relief.
Senna Tea – A natural herbal laxative that can help get things moving if you’re feeling really stuck.
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Bloating & Gas: GasX is helpful for relief if bloating is your main issue.
Heartburn / Acid Reflux: Pepto, Pepcid AC, and Prilosec OTC can help ease mild reflux or upper stomach discomfort.
Pro tip: If you’re using Senna Tea or Mag07, start slow—these can be very effective and are best used occasionally, not daily, to avoid dependency.
3. Vial Storage Options (Compounded GLP-1 Users Only): If you have multiple vials of your GLP-1 medication, many users have found creative ways to store this medication. Many users like myself purchased the large Hydrapeak containers and got the inserts from specialty providers on Etsy (e.g.
GalacticGizmos3d,
ChickaDoodlez,
MDPackUSA). If you search "Peptide Storage" or check out these storefronts there are also custom storage options offered.
4. Food Scale: Useful if you want to be more precise with your meals. GLP-1 meds can really shift your hunger cues. Some days you’re barely hungry; others, you’re not sure how much you’re eating. A small
food scale helps you measure portions so you’re still getting enough nutrition (especially protein) to stay healthy and support your weight loss goals.
5. A Weight Scale (and why): For some people, a bathroom weight scale can feel stressful—especially if you’ve had a complicated relationship with numbers. At GLPology, we believe it’s 100% okay to skip the scale if it doesn’t feel supportive for you.
But for others, here’s why a weight scale can be helpful on GLP-1s:
✅ Seeing Progress Beyond Inches – While inches and how clothes fit are important markers, a weight scale can give you objective feedback about how your medication and lifestyle changes are working together.
✅ Early Warning Signs – Sometimes the weight scale can help you spot changes in water retention or hydration that might not show up otherwise (like sudden drops from dehydration).
✅ Data, Not Judgment – The scale isn’t a measure of your worth—it’s just one tool. Think of it as a data point that helps you and your healthcare provider make decisions about dosing, nutrition, and next steps.
💡 Pro Tip for GLP-1 Users
If stepping on the scale triggers anxiety or stress, it’s perfectly okay to skip it. Some people prefer to use it monthly instead of daily, or even just rely on measurements, how clothes fit, and how you feel as their markers of progress.
