No fearmongering. No hype. Just the truth, the questions to ask, and the plan you need if you’re considering GLP-1s in 2026.

Let’s get something straight, my friend:

I’m not anti-medication.
I’m anti-magic wand thinking.

Because the internet has turned GLP-1s into a fairytale:
“Take the jab, lose the weight, live happily ever after.”

But real life is more like:
“Take the medication, learn your body, build new habits, manage side effects, plan long-term… and stay honest about cost and maintenance.”

So, here’s your 2026 reality check — the kind you’d want from a wise friend who loves you enough to tell the truth kindly.

What GLP-1 meds are (in plain English)

GLP-1 receptor agonists (like semaglutide — Ozempic/Wegovy) help regulate appetite and blood sugar, and many people experience significant weight loss while taking them.

They’re increasingly treated as long-term therapy for a chronic condition, not a quick “summer body” fix — and global guidance is moving in that direction.

Who they may suit (and who should pause)

GLP-1s may be considered for adults living with obesity (and sometimes overweight with health conditions), usually alongside lifestyle and medical support.

Eligibility and access vary by country and service.

Pause and get careful & professional medical advice if you:

• have a history of pancreatitis (or strong risk factors)

• have complex GI issues

• have eating disorder history

• are pregnant/trying to conceive

• have significant mental health instability (not because you’re “not allowed” — but because support needs to be strong and ongoing)

And please hear me: none of this is about shame. It’s about safety.

The big question: “What happens when you stop?”

Here’s the part many people aren’t told clearly enough:

Weight regain is common after stopping anti-obesity medications —

including GLP-1s.

A well-known trial extension on semaglutide showed that after stopping, participants regained a substantial portion of lost weight over the following year.

And a large analysis reported that, on average, benefits on weight and cardiometabolic markers tend to drift back toward baseline within about 1–2 years after stopping weight-loss medications.

That doesn’t mean “don’t take them”.
It means: take them with a long-term plan.

The cost conversation (AU/NZ/UK/CA/US reality)

Australia (noting fast changes in 2026)

In Australia, there’s been major news about Wegovy being subsidised for a defined group through the PBS, which would significantly reduce cost for eligible patients compared with private pricing.

UK

In the UK, access is generally tied to specialist weight management services and set criteria; rollout and availability can vary by region and service capacity.

Canada

Canada is a mixed bag of private coverage and varying public plan decisions, and the news cycle suggests negotiations and coverage questions remain active.

US

In the US, list prices have historically been high, though savings programs, insurance, and newer market moves (including oral options and pricing programs) can change out-of-pocket cost significantly.

Bottom line: cost isn’t a side note — it’s part of the medical decision, because stopping due to affordability often leads to rebound weight gain and frustration.

Side effects: the unglamorous part nobody posts on Instagram

Common side effects can include nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux, fatigue, and appetite changes.

Some people do fine. Some people feel miserable.

Your practical supports:

• Small meals, slower eating, protein-first

• Hydration + electrolytes if needed

• Fibre and constipation management (with GP advice)

• Dose changes or slower titration if side effects are strong

And please — if you’re struggling, don’t “white-knuckle” it in silence. Talk to your prescriber.

Safety updates and mental health (be informed, not afraid)

Regulators have been watching reports of suicidal thoughts/behaviours with GLP-1 medicines.

In Australia, the TGA aligned product warnings and advises monitoring for mood changes and suicidal thoughts/behaviours.

In the US, the FDA has said its preliminary evaluation did not find evidence that GLP-1s cause suicidal thoughts/actions — but it continues to monitor.

So, the wise approach is:

• Be alert

• Be supported

• Don’t ignore mood changes

• Don’t self-prescribe from the internet

Please don’t buy mystery meds online (a firm loving warning)

Rising demand has fuelled online sellers, compounded versions, and dodgy supply chains.

Even major industry reporting highlights concerns about unapproved/unsafe knock-offs and the safety risks in parts of the online market.

If you’re considering any non-standard source, ask:

• Is it approved in my country?

• Is it dispensed by a licensed pharmacy?

• Who is medically supervising my care?

• What happens if I get side effects?

• What’s the plan for maintenance?

The “if you start, plan to maintain” checklist

Before you begin, ask your prescriber:

1. What’s the medical goal (weight, glucose, cardiovascular risk, mobility)?

2. What side effects should prompt urgent review?

3. What’s the expected duration of therapy?

4. How will we prevent regain if I stop or pause?

5. What nutrition and strength plan should I build while it’s working?

6. How will we monitor mental health if I have a history of anxiety/depression?

7. What’s the real monthly cost for my situation?

And here’s the WYRLORA truth:

If you’re using a powerful tool, build powerful habits while it’s easier.

That means:

• Strength training (muscle is your metabolic ally)

• Protein and fibre consistency

• Sleep support

• Stress reduction

• Gentle but steady movement

• Community support (because white-knuckling never lasts)

Quick takeaway

• GLP-1s can help — but they’re not a fairytale.

• Stopping often leads to regain, so plan long-term.

• Cost and access are part of the decision, not an afterthought.

• Safety matters: monitor mood changes and avoid dodgy online supply.

If this post helped you feel calmer and clearer, read the strength training post next — it pairs beautifully with any weight and wellbeing plan in midlife. And if you’d like ongoing support, join the WYRLORA Circle or subscribe to WL Message.

Until we chat again,

Blessing & hugs to you my dear friend,

Dianne xx