Do GLP-1 Patches Work? | What To Know Before Trying Them
Written by Jordan Caulfield & reviewed by Paul Holmes.
GLP-1 has quickly become one of the most discussed topics in weight management and metabolic health in the wellness world. From prescription injections such as Ozempic and Wegovy to newer products like GLP-1 patches, interest in this gut hormone has grown significantly.
This rise in popularity is understandable. Managing appetite, and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, can be challenging. As a result, many people are searching for alternatives that feel more accessible than prescription medication or do not require invasive injections.
GLP-1 is not a trend or a shortcut. It’s a hormone naturally produced by the body and plays a vital role in everyday metabolic function. Understanding how GLP-1 works and which factors are effective, is essential before investing in a product that claims to influence it.
This article explores what GLP-1 is, how GLP-1 patches claim to work, what scientific research currently shows, and which alternatives are supported by stronger evidence.
What Is GLP-1
GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone released in the gut after eating. It plays a central role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion.
Once released, GLP-1 helps the body to:
- Stimulate insulin release when blood glucose rises
- Reduce glucagon secretion, which helps prevent blood sugar spikes
- Slow gastric emptying, keeping food in the stomach for longer
- Increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite
These are important processes for metabolic health and energy balance. GLP-1 is particularly relevant in conditions such as type 2 diabetes and obesity, both of which are associated with impaired glucose regulation.
Rather than trying to replicate GLP-1, Naturecan focuses on supporting the body’s natural hormone response. This approach is reflected in the GLP-1 Bundle, which combines supplements studied for their potential role in glucose control, gut health, and overall balance.
GLP-1 Bundle
Discover Naturecan’s GLP-1 Supplements Bundle, expertly designed to support your overall health and wellness goals.
This carefully selected bundle of natural supplements works to aid appetite regulation, promote balanced blood sugar levels, and support weight management, helping you support overall vitality.
With premium plant-based ingredients, this bundle offers a natural, effective way to manage your daily wellness routine.
- Supports weight management and metabolic health
- Includes products with high bioavailability
- Berberine, Reducose, Omega 3 and Digest Gummies Included
- Suitable for vegetarians/vegans
- 60 day supply
- Formulated to promote longevity
Why GLP-1 Treatments Have Gained So Much Attention
Prescription GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro work by mimicking the effects of natural GLP-1 in the body.
These medications:
- Increase satiety
- Reduce appetite
- Slow digestion
However, these treatments require injections, medical supervision, and ongoing use. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Digestive discomfort
- Fatigue
There is also limited long-term data beyond several years of use.This has led to growing interest in non-prescription and more “natural” ways to support GLP-1.
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Read MoreWhat Are GLP-1 Patches?
GLP-1 patches are adhesive patches applied to the skin. They are often marketed as needle-free alternatives to prescription GLP-1 injections and may be described as “Wegovy patches” or “Mounjaro patches”.
It is important to clarify that these patches do not contain GLP-1 agonist drugs such as Semaglutide or Tirzepatide. These medications are complex peptides that must be injected to enter the bloodstream effectively.
Instead, GLP-1 patches usually contain vitamins, minerals, or plant extracts that are believed to support appetite control or blood sugar balance.
While some of these ingredients have evidence when taken orally, it doesn't mean they are as effective when absorbed through the skin.
What Ingredients Are Commonly Found in GLP-1 Patches?
Although formulations vary, most GLP-1 patches contain similar ingredients.
Transdermal Semaglutide Research
A pharmaceutical study explored experimental patches designed to deliver semaglutide through the skin[4]. However, these patches were medical-grade formulations and are not comparable to commercially available over the counter supplement patches.
Berberine
Berberine is a plant compound studied for its effects on blood glucose regulation, cholesterol levels, and weight management. Human studies suggest it may help to maintain normal cholesterol levels and reduce blood triglyceride levels when taken orally, particularly in people with metabolic conditions [1].
Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is rich in catechins and has been linked to minimal weight changes in some studies. Some research suggests it may influence hunger hormones such as ghrelin [2].
Garcinia Cambogia
A review of eight clinical trials found an average weight loss of approximately 1.34 kg with Garcinia cambogia supplementation. However, results across all studies are inconsistent and generally modest [3].
Vitamins and Minerals
Chromium, cinnamon, and pomegranate extract are often included for their role in glucose metabolism and antioxidant support. While these ingredients may offer possible benefits, the key limitation is that most supporting evidence relates to oral intake, not transdermal use.
Omega-3 and Inflammation
Omega-3 fatty acids are widely recognised for their range of potential benefits. Chronic low-grade inflammation is closely linked to insulin resistance and weight gain, making omega-3s an important factor in metabolic health [6].
Featured Supplement: Berberine
Formulated with improved wellness in mind, these high-quality supplements can help with maintaining normal cholesterol levels, and may promote longevity.
Providing your body with the nutrients it needs can be difficult through diet alone, supplementing your body with Berberine can provide you with the necessary nourishment to help keep it working efficiently.
- Supports healthy blood sugar levels
- May improve cholesterol levels
- Vegan
- 500mg per capsule
- 2 month supply
Are GLP-1 Patches Safe?
Currently, no GLP-1 weight loss patches are approved by the MHRA in the UK. This means they are not formally assessed for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Oral supplements purchased from reputable brands can offer greater transparency, particularly when products are third-party tested and clearly labelled. Researching brands carefully remains very important.
Do GLP-1 Patches Work for Weight Loss?
Currently, there is no high-quality scientific evidence showing that over-the-counter GLP-1 patches lead to meaningful or sustained weight loss.
The main challenge lies in absorption.
Most ingredients used in GLP-1 patches:
- Have been studied primarily in oral supplement form
- Are not proven to be absorbed through the skin in effective amounts
- Lack robust human trials using transdermal delivery
This doesn't mean the ingredients themselves are ineffective. But instead highlights that the delivery method could limit their potential benefits.Oral supplementation allows for controlled dosing and digestion-based absorption, which is why it is used in most clinical research.
Are There Natural Alternatives to GLP-1 Medications?
There is no true “natural Ozempic”. However, there are evidence-based ways to potentially support the body’s natural GLP-1 response as part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
Naturecan brings these elements together in its GLP-1 Bundle, offering practical support without exaggerated claims.
Berberine and Weight Loss
A meta-analysis published in 2020 found that berberine supplementation could reduce body weight and BMI in adults, particularly those with metabolic disorders [1].
Reducose® and Blood Sugar Control
Reducose®, a white mulberry leaf extract, has been shown to potentially reduce post-meal glucose spikes in studies. Improved glucose control may contribute to improved GLP-1 responses [5].
How Prescription GLP-1 Treatments Work
Ozempic
Ozempic is primarily used to manage high blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes, but its appetite-suppressing and metabolic-boosting properties have made it a sought-after treatment for weight loss.
Ozempic is manufactured using recombinant DNA technology, making it a man-made product. It is typically administered via a weekly injection, which helps regulate insulin secretion, slows gastric emptying, and reduces food intake.
Wegovy
Wegovy was the first semaglutide drug approved for obesity. Patients often notice big reductions in appetite and portion sizes within weeks.
Real-world use shows high satisfaction among those who tolerate the drug well, though mild-to-moderate side effects are common during dose escalation.
Mounjaro
Mounjaro’s dual agonist effect allows it to target both GLP-1 and GIP receptors.
This means better appetite regulation and improved glucose metabolism.
Patients in trials often report large reductions in cravings, improved satiety and steady blood sugar levels.
Wegovy vs Ozempic vs Mounjaro & Prescription-Free Alternatives
Discover the difference between popular weigh loss jabs and natural alternatives.
Read MoreGLP-1 Patches vs Oral GLP-1 Support
Based on current evidence, oral GLP-1 support has a much stronger scientific foundation.
Orally consumed ingredients such as berberine, fibre extracts, omega-3s, and probiotics:
- Have been studied in human trials
- Use well-understood absorption pathways
- Allow for consistent and measurable dosing
Transdermal patches, by comparison, lack the same level of validation. Naturecan’s Glucose Support Capsules offer a research-led approach, using transparent formulations and third-party testing to ensure quality and safety.
Conclusion - Trust the Science, Not the Trend
Weight loss and metabolic health are complex and rarely solved by a single product. Sustainable results come from consistency, balanced nutrition, movement, and evidence-based support.
Products marketed as “miracle” solutions often fail to deliver long-term benefits. Supporting the body naturally, using well-researched ingredients and realistic expectations, is much more likely to improve overall health and wellbeing.
Although GLP-1 patches are growing in popularity, current research does not support them as an overall effective weight loss solution due to low absorption rates.
GLP-1 prescription drugs or oral GLP-1 supplements, combined with a healthy lifestyle, remains the more credible option to support weight loss and better long-term wellbeing.
Executive Summary
- GLP-1 patches are a non-invasive concept intended to deliver GLP-1–related compounds through the skin.
- Scientific barriers make effective transdermal delivery of GLP-1 challenging.
- Currently, there is no high-quality scientific evidence showing that over-the-counter GLP-1 patches lead to meaningful or sustained weight loss.
- GLP-1 supplements have much better absorption rates and GLP-1 drugs are the most efficient option, however, come with some side effects.
FAQs
Which GLP-1 is best for weight loss?
Wegovy contains semaglutide and is approved specifically for weight management, while Mounjaro acts on two hormone pathways (GLP-1 and GIP). The most suitable option depends on individual health factors and should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
How often should you use GLP-1?
Prescription GLP-1 medications are usually taken once weekly, following medical guidance. However, natural metabolic support, such as dietary changes or supplementation, is typically used daily as part of a consistent routine. Long-term consistency, rather than short-term use, is key for sustained benefits.
What foods increase GLP-1 naturally?
Certain foods may stimulate natural GLP-1 release, including:
High-protein foods such as eggs, fish, and legumes. Fibre-rich foods like vegetables, whole grains, and pulses. Fermented foods that support gut health, such as yoghurt and kefir
A balanced diet that supports gut health may help optimise natural GLP-1 activity.
What is GLP-1 microdosing?
GLP-1 microdosing refers to the use of very low doses of prescription GLP-1 medications. While this approach is sometimes discussed online, there is currently limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness or safety. Any use of prescription medication should only occur under medical supervision.
What is “Ozempic face”?
“Ozempic face” is a non-medical term used to describe facial volume loss that can occur with rapid weight loss. This effect is not unique to Ozempic and may happen with any significant or fast reduction in body weight, regardless of the method used.
Is Ozempic safe for weight loss?
Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, with weight loss occurring as a secondary effect. While studies show it can lead to weight reduction, it should only be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort.
Is Mounjaro safe for weight loss?
Mounjaro has shown strong weight loss results in clinical trials and is approved for type 2 diabetes. Its use for weight management is increasing, but long-term safety data is still developing. Medical guidance is essential when considering this treatment.
Is Wegovy safe for weight loss?
Wegovy is approved specifically for weight management and has been shown to support significant weight loss in clinical studies. As with all prescription medications, side effects are possible, and its use should be overseen by a qualified healthcare professional.
Is semaglutide the same as Ozempic?
Yes. Ozempic contains the active ingredient semaglutide. However, semaglutide is also used in other medications, such as Wegovy, which contains a higher dose and is approved specifically for weight loss.
*Disclaimer*
This article is purely for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. References to supplements and products do not imply treatment, prevention or cure of any medical conditions. Healthcare advise should always be sought, especially if already taking prescription medication.
Reviewed by Paul Holmes
Director of Science and Innovation at Naturecan
Testing for large pharmaceutical & tobacco companies, Paul has built a wealth of scientific and regulatory knowledge, working on regulatory submissions to bodies such as the FDA and the MHRA.
He holds a BSc in Medicinal and Biological Chemistry and sits on the UKAS CBD Food Product Approval Expert Group.
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