10 Truths about Weight Loss Pens. | 22 Square Clinic
What is a weight loss pen?
The so-called “weight loss pens” were not originally invented specifically for weight loss, but rather to treat type 2 diabetes, with gradual weight loss being a beneficial side effect. They earned this nickname because the device resembles a pen; however, instead of ink, it contains GLP-1 receptor agonist medications (such as Liraglutide, Semaglutide, or Tirzepatide) designed for users to easily self-inject under the skin.
So, what should you know before using a weight loss pen?
1. Is it true that the weight will bounce back after stopping the injections?
This is the most frequently asked question, and the answer is: it can happen, but not to everyone.
First, it is important to understand that obesity isn’t just about overeating or being lazy; it involves:
Hunger hormones
Genetics
Stress
Sleep
Metabolism
Long-term lifestyle habits
When using this group of medications, they help reduce hunger, making you feel full faster and eat less. Once the weight decreases, if you stop the medication without a proper plan, the body will often try to return to its original set point. This leads to increased hunger and gradual weight regain.
That is why I always tell my patients:
The goal isn’t just to lose the weight, but you must also have a plan to maintain it afterward.
2. Is it true that the injections make your face look gaunt and age faster?
Many people are quite alarmed by this. In reality, it is not the medication causing you to age, but rather the loss of facial fat as your overall weight decreases.
Common changes during weight loss: Especially with rapid weight loss, you may notice hollow cheeks, a more pronounced jawline, sunken temples, and slightly sagging skin. This is even more noticeable if you are 35 or older, as collagen levels are already declining.
Ways to minimize this: Lose weight gradually, consume sufficient protein, incorporate weight training, take care of your skin simultaneously, and avoid aiming to be excessively thin.
Dr. Eve wants to emphasize that having better health is much more important than being thin to the point of looking haggard.
3. Are weight loss pens dangerous? Do they really ruin your liver and kidneys?
When used under a doctor’s supervision with proper screening, they are generally considered safe medications. Common side effects during the initial phase include:
Nausea
Bloating
Feeling full quickly
Constipation
Loss of appetite
These symptoms usually improve once your body adjusts.
4. Why do some people not lose weight at all despite the injections?
I get this question very often, and there are usually reasons behind it, such as:
Still in the starting phase Many people have just started on a low dose, which is still an adjustment period. When using weight loss pens, doctors recommend long-term use rather than using them temporarily or intermittently.
Eating less but still consuming high calories Some people might still be consuming sweets like milk tea, sweetened coffee, or “healthy” snacks that are actually high in calories. This means the body is still taking in a high amount of sugar or energy.
Lack of sleep and high stress Rest is a crucial factor. When you experience stress, get inadequate rest, or are sleep-deprived, your hunger hormones can become imbalanced.
Lack of muscle mass Weight loss pens don’t just reduce fat; they can also reduce muscle. When your muscle mass decreases, your metabolism slows down as well.
Underlying health conditions Having certain medical conditions can make weight loss quite difficult, such as PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), hypothyroidism, or insulin resistance.
When using an aid like a weight loss pen, it is always recommended to take care of your overall health by exercising, getting enough rest, and managing your diet as well.
5. Do I need to starve myself while taking the injections?
No, you don’t need to starve yourself, and I do not recommend doing so.
This group of medications is meant to make controlling your diet easier, not to torture yourself. I would rather you focus on the following:
Having protein at every meal
Eating enough vegetables
Reducing sugary drinks
Cutting down on fried foods and snacks
Eating more slowly
If you restrict your diet too much, you run the risk of:
Fatigue
Dizziness
Muscle loss
Binge eating later on
Effective weight loss shouldn’t rely solely on an aid; it requires making appropriate lifestyle and behavioral adjustments for your long-term health.
6. Can people who don't have much weight to lose use it?
Some people may not look overweight but have hidden health issues or underlying conditions, such as high visceral fat, fatty liver, elevated blood sugar, or PCOS. For this group, using a weight loss pen can be highly beneficial as it also helps treat these associated conditions.
However, for those who are already at a normal weight and in good health but simply want to lose a little weight, I recommend trying to exercise, control your diet, and get enough rest first. Making your own lifestyle adjustments is always the best approach.
7. Does taking the injections make it harder to get pregnant?
Many people are very concerned about this, especially women who are planning to have a baby.
Currently, there is no clear evidence that the medication directly causes infertility. In fact, for some overweight individuals or those with PCOS, successful weight loss can even improve their menstrual cycles.
However, if you are planning to get pregnant, you must inform your doctor first because many of these medications are not recommended during pregnancy, and you may need to stop using them well in advance.
8. Is the new Tirzepatide really better than older generations?
Tirzepatide is a medication that acts on more than one pathway, so data shows it promotes excellent weight loss. The SURMOUNT-1 study found a very high average weight loss across multiple groups. However, there is no single answer for what is “best,” because we also have to consider:
Your budget
Your tolerance for side effects
Your target weight loss
Whether you have co-existing diabetes
Some people respond extremely well to Semaglutide, so there is no need to switch.
9. There will be newer medications next year; should I wait?
This field is indeed developing very rapidly. There are currently new “triple action” medications like Retatrutide that are showing very interesting results.
But Dr. Eve would gently like to ask: if you wait another year, in the meantime…
Will your weight continue to increase?
Will diabetes start to develop?
Will your fatty liver worsen?
Will your knee pain increase?
For some people, “starting treatment now” might be much more worthwhile than waiting for something new.
10. Do I have to inject it for the rest of my life?
Not necessarily. However, research recommends long-term use rather than using it intermittently or just for a few short periods. Inconsistent medication levels in the body might actually have more negative effects on your overall health. It is highly recommended to have a doctor design a personalized treatment plan for you for the best results.
Message from Dr. Eve
“…Weight loss pens are not the main solution but a supportive aid; they are not a shortcut, and they are not a magic pill. They are a medical tool that helps many people regain better health. The most important thing is not whether or not you use the injections, but rather choosing a method that best suits your body and lifestyle.
Because the true goal is not just getting thinner, but becoming healthier, living more comfortably, and being happier with yourself…”
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