Just wanted to say — for anyone reading this I do not recognize thread who is feeling discouraged: it gets better. The first month are the hardest. Hang in there. 💪

As a pharmacist, I want to add some clinical context to this discussion on I do not recognize myself in photos and.

Building on what BrianDallas92 said — the evidence base here is robust. The key publications to reference are from the SUSTAIN program[1].

Key clinical points:

1. Efficacy is dose-dependent and typically requires 4-5 weeks to reach steady state
2. Side effect profile is predictable and usually manageable with standard protocols
3. Monitoring should include baseline labs and follow-up at 3-month intervals
4. Patient education significantly improves outcomes and adherence

Standard disclaimer: this is educational, not individualized medical advice.

Subscribing to this thread. I do not recognize myself is exactly what I've been researching. 🙏

Want to share my personal experience related to I do not recognize myself in since I think it might help others in a similar situation.

I started my GLP-1 journey in October 2024 at 269 lbs with prediabetes and hypertension. My endocrinologist prescribed semaglutide 0.25mg to start.

Now, 12 months later: I am down 64 lbs, my labs have normalized, and I am off 2 of my 3 medications. The I do not recognize aspect specifically was something that made a big difference in my journey.

This community helped me every step of the way.

+1 to CanadaChris. Especially the point about "The first month are the hardest..." — I have seen the same in my own experience with I do not recognize myself.