The body I'm rebuilding after cancer.

Usually not. Most oncology teams advise waiting until you're done with chemo, radiation, or active treatment before adding a GLP-1. The reason isn't that it's dangerous — we just don't have enough long-term safety data for that combination yet. Always talk to your oncology team first.

This is the question I get asked the most. Current guidance is that GLP-1s may be considered with caution for survivors on stable hormone therapy — which means many of us qualify, but the conversation has to happen with your care team. Fierce Health includes a medical consult with every order, and your oncologist should be looped in too.

Most people notice changes within the first few weeks — appetite goes first, then the scale starts to move. Real, visible body changes usually take 8 to 12 weeks of consistent weekly dosing. Patience is part of the protocol.

The first week or two can bring nausea, fatigue, or some digestive weirdness as your body adjusts. Most of that fades by week three or four. Hydration and small, frequent meals help a lot in the beginning. If anything feels off, message the Fierce Health team — there's always someone to talk to.

Tirzepatide targets two pathways (GLP-1 and GIP), while Semaglutide targets just one. In head-to-head studies, Tirzepatide consistently produces more weight loss — around 20% of body weight compared to 15% for Semaglutide. Both are good options. For me, the bigger result was worth it.

That's between you and your care team. Some people stay on a maintenance dose long-term, others transition to a microdose protocol, and some come off entirely once they've hit their goal. You don't have to decide on day one — just start, listen to your body, and adjust from there.