Your GLP-1 Starter Guide
Everything you need to feel confident, supported, and successful on your GLP-1 journey, all in one place.
Starting GLP-1 medication can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect, how to use your medication, how to manage side effects, when to request refills, and how to support your results with nutrition and movement.
Use this page as your go-to reference throughout your treatment.
Constipation Guide
How to Use Your Vial and Syringe
Before your first injection, please review the videos. These walk you through safe and proper use of your medication.
Always follow your prescribed dose and contact us if something doesn’t feel right.
Watch Injection Tutorial
https://www.redrockrx.com/injection-video
Getting the Last Units from Your Vial
https://youtu.be/lIOl2pc8BxU
How to Measure Your Dose
This chart helps you convert your prescribed dose from milliliters (mL) to insulin syringe units. Always follow the exact dose prescribed by your provider.
Tirzepatide
10 mg / mL Vial
When to Increase Your Dose
GLP-1 medications stay in your system for several days. Increasing slowly helps reduce side effects and improves long-term success.
Staying on a lower dose longer is completely okay and often leads to better results.
General Rule:
Stay on each dose for at least 4 weeks before considering an increase.
You MAY be ready to increase if:
On your current dose 4+ weeks
Side effects are mild and manageable
Appetite suppression or glucose control has leveled off
You can eat small meals, stay hydrated, and function normally
Do NOT increase if:
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Significant reflux or abdominal discomfort
Trouble meeting hydration or protein goals
Fatigue or dizziness affecting daily life
Symptoms worsen after injections
When and How to Request a Refill
To avoid interruptions in your medication, please plan ahead.
Request your refill when you have about 2 weeks left
Submit refill requests directly through our website
Look for the Refill Request button
On mobile: located in the menu
On desktop: visible in the site navigation
Nutrition and Protein Basics
Adequate protein and hydration are essential while on GLP-1 medication. They help preserve muscle, support metabolism, and reduce side effects.
General tips:
Prioritize protein at every meal
Aim for 80-100 grams of protein per day
Eat small, balanced meals
Sip fluids consistently throughout the day
Avoid very large or high-fat meals early on
Learn more about protein goals:
Protein and GLP-1: The Perfect Pair for Weight Loss Success
3 High-Protein Breakfasts for GLP-1 Success
3 Quick & Healthy Lunches for GLP-1 Success
Constipation Guide
Constipation is a common and expected side effect of Tirzepatide, especially when starting treatment or increasing your dose. The good news: it is preventable and treatable.
Why Does Tirzepatide Cause Constipation?
Tirzepatide slows digestion and stomach emptying. This helps with appetite control, but it can also slow bowel movements.
Daily Prevention (Start These First)
Hydration:
Goal: 80–100 oz of water daily
Sip throughout the day
Dehydration is the #1 cause of constipation on GLP-1 medications
Fiber (Increase Slowly):
Goal: 25–30 g/day
Best options: vegetables, berries, oatmeal, chia seeds, ground flaxseed
Avoid sudden large increases
Movement:
Walk 10–20 minutes daily
Gentle movement helps stimulate bowel activity
OTC Medications That Can Help:
Magnesium citrate supplement (ex: Nature Made Magnesium Citrate 250 mg)
Docusate (Colace®) stool softener
MiraLAX® (polyethylene glycol 3350)
Glycerin suppositories
Senna or Bisacodyl (occasional use only)
*Check with your provider before using magnesium if you have kidney disease.
Helpful Tips:
Morning routine helps: water + coffee + walk
Use a small footstool in the bathroom to improve positioning
Avoid skipping meals entirely
Call Your Provider If You Have:
No bowel movement for 5+ days
Severe abdominal pain or vomiting
Blood in stool
Constipation not improving despite OTC treatment
Movement and Exercise
Movement supports fat loss, energy, and muscle preservation. Start where you are and build gradually.
Beginner Level:
20–30 minutes of walking, 3–5 days per week
Light strength training 1–2 days per week
Gentle stretching or mobility work
Intermediate Level:
30–45 minutes of cardio, 4–5 days per week
Strength training 2–3 days per week
Optional low-impact intervals or resistance circuits
Learn more:
GLP-1 Diet and Exercise Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Weight Loss Journey
Your 3-Month Follow-Up Matters
Regular follow-up appointments are not optional when receiving GLP-1 medication. They are required by medical regulations and help ensure your treatment remains safe and effective.
To continue receiving refills, you must:
Complete your scheduled follow-up appointments
Be clinically reviewed by your provider
Have an active treatment plan on file
Without a follow-up visit, we are legally unable to prescribe or refill GLP-1 medication.
The good news: follow-ups are quick, supportive, and focused on making sure your medication, dose, and plan are working well for you.
Please schedule your follow-up before requesting a refill to avoid any interruption in treatment.
Facts to Remember When Starting
a GLP-1
•GLP-1 medications have an approximate 5-day half-life, meaning the medication builds up gradually in your system.
• You may not feel full effects right away—benefits and side effects can take 2–4 weeks to stabilize.
• Do not rush dose increases. Increasing too quickly raises the risk of nausea, vomiting, constipation, and fatigue.
• Consistency matters—take your injection on the same day each week.
You’re Not Doing This Alone
Questions are normal, especially early on.
If something feels off or you’re unsure about next steps, reach out.
We’re here to support you.