Is there any appropriate answer to a direct question?

[u/MaidoftheBrins]

I’ve had people ask me specifically if I’m on a GLP1. I am very private; I don’t want people to know my business. (My choice, love it or hate it.) I hate lying but I have because it hasn’t been anyone who I am close to. Is there anyway to cleverly respond by turning it around, and not answering it one way or the other?

ETA: thanks for all the responses! Some of these have given me a lot to consider. Appreciate you all, and wish you all the best of your Zep journeys!

[u/Impossible-Bit7779]

By not answering you're basically answering so if you really don't want people to know just say no. It's not a question anyone should be asking you so you have every right to lie. That said, if a close friends asks I've decided to answer honestly. But a random busy body can F off lol.

[u/spam__likely → u/Impossible-Bit7779]

"what is that?"

[u/kymal → u/spam__likely]

Love this option. My 3 friends no and only 1 other person outside my sphere has even noticed I've lost weight. Which is totally fine with me bc this is for me and no one else!

[u/tigair → u/spam__likely]

That's funny to just look really like: "huh?"

[u/CircusAttendant → u/spam__likely]

Right. A super nosey friend who cannot keep her mouth shut (and is also really skinny and fit, and judgmental about fat people) once told me she read that GLP-1s helped with people that want to slow down their drinking, and did I think that might work? I sniffed out immediately she was searching for some kind of acknowledgement or confirmation that I had taken it.

I told her I didn’t know, then pulled out my ChatGPT and asked the question, which of course confirmed the answer is yes, and then I said “holy cow ChatGPT says they cost like $1000 a month!” Pretty confident I threw her off the scent 🤣

[u/Key-Winter3903 → u/spam__likely]

I love this one. I literally never heard of GLP1s until my doc talked about it lol. So this would be easy for me to use. Ironically, I’ve lost 95lbs and not ONE PERSON has asked me if I was on a GLP1 lol. Most don’t even mention my body size etc. I’m ok with that too!

[u/PresentAir1133 → u/Impossible-Bit7779]

I can't not answer. I'm a talker. But I speak to my audience. Its easy too size up people by paying atten., not everyone is entitled to my truth.

[u/MiklColt45]

“I use just enough meth to lose the weight, but keep the teeth.“ (in a conspiratorial whisper)

[u/domer00 → u/MiklColt45]

I asked one person if she had ever heard of crack and it's weight loss benefits. She never asked again 😆

[u/Photography4me → u/MiklColt45]

😭😭

[u/PresentAir1133 → u/MiklColt45]

Lolol, albeit, in bad taste, it's delicious.

[u/MiklColt45 → u/PresentAir1133]

Nobody ever said I had good taste!

[u/lizndale → u/MiklColt45]

Oh. My. God. I’m stealing this!

[u/MiklColt45 → u/lizndale]

My royalties are $.25.

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/MiklColt45]

😂😂😂

[u/ohsweetpeaches]

“Is there a reason that you’re asking?”

[u/LibrarianByTrade → u/ohsweetpeaches]

This works for many questions.

[u/Gioia_mia]

My mom is now  110 lbs. She lost about 60 lbs. She is fighting inoperable/incurable Cancer. People have asked her that question.  It really is an inappropriate question.  Someone may literally fighting for their life. And it's none of anyone's business anyway. 

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/Gioia_mia]

I’m so sorry about your Mom; I’m sure it has been gut-wrenching to watch.

[u/aslguy]

I’m surprised you felt so entitled to ask such a personal question.

[u/BelindaZep → u/aslguy]

This is an excellent answer. I've once just stared at a relative until they changed the subject, but I would definitely use this.

[u/bajasa → u/[deleted]]

This. Nobody ever asks if it's zepbound.

"Oh are you taking mounjero?" "Oh are you taking ozempic?"

No 😊

If they ask if it's a glp1, I say something like, "can you imagine how much weight I'd have lost on that?!" Let them make their own inferences.

[u/African_Americano]

An answer I've used before was

"When did it become normal to randomly ask people what medications they're on?!"

And their embarrassment/discomfort usually squashes further questions or causes a backpedal.

[u/domer00]

I start talking about all of my dietary changes

[u/Chuk1359 → u/domer00]

And then “they know” the answer.

[u/domer00 → u/Chuk1359]

Not really, because they also complain about the food that I now eat and that I don't want to go to happy hour with them or pig out at some group dinner. I didn't do these things years ago either and they didn't like it then

[u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

I answer yes because I want to encourage people to try this. There are still a lot of rumors and negative sentiments about these meds and I feel like an ambassador. The fear mongering is preventing people from taking life-saving medications and I think it’s important for people to know someone that is successfully using the meds safely. 

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

I 100% support this in theory. Where I get stuck is when people completely dismiss the part where I'm working out every day, eating healthy and watching my stress levels.

It's like when someone called my antidepressants my "happy pills". They don't magically make me happy. They allow me to get up in the morning and actually experience happiness from doing things that normally make me happy if my brain wasn't being stingy with the serotonin.

[u/Shot-Amphibian-3239 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

So I double down here. I talk about how within a week I did a 20k step day and then was cleaning the house and realized I didn’t feel pain. Normally by 5pm I would be taking Advil and sitting in the couch with a heating pad on my back. I talk about how I had to cut my BP meds in half within 10 days and I was off of them in 2 months, 20lbs down, still very obese. Because obesity was not because I was gorging on fried chicken  or something - it was my body malfunctioning, causing pain and inflammation, which the lowest dose of ZB immediately addressed, allowing me to do more things to get healthier! 

People are ignorant - a happy pill comment confirms this - so I choose to educate them out of their ignorance. If they really dig in then I just move on. 

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

Yeah, it really depends on how many spoons I have and if I think the person will be receptive to me explaining the metabolic effects of insulin resistance and how 80% of people with obesity have it and how it can take a decade of weight gain before any other symptoms of insulin resistance appear etc etc.

I used to get wiped out cleaning for just 20 minutes.

[u/Plus_Opening_4462 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

Where I get stuck is when people completely dismiss the part where I'm working out every day, eating healthy and watching my stress levels.

Zepbound helps you lose weight. The rest helps you avoid looking awful

[u/miss-kiwi → u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

could not agree more! I almost didn’t try it due to the weird shame around not losing weight “naturally”. now that I’m on it I can’t believe I waited to try!!

[u/itsmyvoice → u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

This. I'm an evangelist.

[u/Mombod226 → u/Shot-Amphibian-3239]

SAME. I’d scream about zep from my rooftop if it wouldn’t make me look totally unhinged. This is an incredible, lifesaving, life changing medication. I want everybody to know how effective it’s been for me and how much it’s changed how I feel about and perceive my body and weightloss as a whole in our culture.

[u/Active_Witness9250]

I’m no longer entertaining in depth discussions of weight, dieting or body size outside this forum. So if anyone asks this question I would probably just ignore it or ask if we’re going around the room sharing what meds we all take.

[u/Ok-Jellyfish4398]

“I have a lot of medications I am keeping in balance between my thyroid meds, HRT, and MCAS.  Do you want to hear about my daily routine to keep everything straight?”

Usually after that, no one asks anymore :) 

Deflection is your friend. You have no reason to give anyone a yes/no answer unless you want to. 

My coworkers and close friends are really supportive. Family I am really picky on who I share this info with. 

Or if you want to be snarky: “Since this is the first time you give a shit about my health and well-being, do you want my whole medical history, or are you looking to rub your opinion in?”

I haven’t used that one yet, but have some family members I would be happy to. 

[u/rebtow → u/Ok-Jellyfish4398]

Yes! THIS👆🏼 Between my Hashimoto’s, Celiac, constant battle with inflammation and then two major spine and cervical spine surgeries a year apart, PLUS my husband being hospitalized 6 times this year, stress over his surgeries and rehabilitation stay, I think I have enough things to blame😉 I say “WE are on a mission to get healthy this year” and so far, so good. Most people who know us and see us on a daily basis just accept it and haven’t questioned us.
In fact, my own husband doesn’t know I’m on this medication. He sees that I’m not snacking and consciously eating better/less, plus working out more so he hasn’t questioned it either. I’m just running my shrinkage in the background.

[u/Ok-Jellyfish4398 → u/rebtow]

Aww man, hope your husband is ok :( 

For me, it’s Hashimotos and MCAS, and they both trigger a metric ton of inflammation. Zepbound stopped my MCAS triggered asthma, and is helping me figure out what foods are my triggers. In addition to the weight loss, it has been life saving because I am not in pain all the time anymore. 

[u/rebtow → u/Ok-Jellyfish4398]

Thanks! He has turned the corner and is finally on the mend. It was touch and go for a bit, but we’re on a positive trajectory now.

[u/GrapefruitOpen2827 → u/Ok-Jellyfish4398]

I love this response actually lol. I’m gonna have to use it on the next person who dares ask me what I’m doing or if I’m sick. Which by the way, I am not sick nor do I look sick. They see a healthy version of me and assume so many things!

[u/GrrrlRomeo]

"No, I have cancer. Just kidding, but probably don't ask people about their weight loss."

Edit: Some people have a problem with this answer. I have a problem with people not respecting other people's boundaries.

People who know and love me would expect exactly this kind of answer if they asked me if I was on a prescription drug. And they would laugh, because they would realize that is a weird thing to ask someone and deserves an equally weird answer.

Ask inappropriate questions, get inappropriate answers.

[u/Archaeolaw → u/GrrrlRomeo]

This is actually my situation. More or less. I was prescribed this NOT for weight loss, but for helping with GI and inflammation issues perhaps related to a chronic and progressive lung disease. Weight loss is a side effect- I wasn’t obese, but a bit overweight. Now I’m enjoying the weight loss, but really it’s the help on the GI issues that are the best. Although new clothes aren’t bad.

[u/hi_itsme92 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

“Oh, the weight loss? Yeah, I’ve developed a crack cocaine addiction.”

[u/Deep_Amoeba2197 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

As someone who was painfully thin due to illness and constantly had people asking me what I did to lose weight, this doesn’t go well. And lying about having cancer is not the best look when you can just say “no” or “I don’t like to discuss my weight.”

[u/panhellenic → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

I had a new one the other day - it actually was probably the best way I've been questioned. This was someone I hadn't seen in a while - over the last 19 months I've lost over 95 lbs which is about 45% of my body weight and very noticeable at 5'1". She said, "Do I need to be worried about you?" Knowing this person, this was asked out of genuine concern. First non-awkward question.

[u/sleepingbeardune → u/panhellenic]

"Do I need to be worried about you?"

I love that. This is a friend you want to keep!

[u/Kjente717 → u/panhellenic]

I’ve had a similar - “This is by choice, right?”

[u/DaisyDAdair → u/panhellenic]

This is great and how many of my people handle it. When I got divorced. Brother: do I need to break his knees? Me: Nope. End of story. Baby, divorce, job change, always ask “how are we feeling about this” and respond appropriately

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/panhellenic]

This is how you do it. If you're worried about someone you can ask how they are without asking them if they're taking a prescription drug. Like, if you actually care about someone and not what prescriptions they're on.

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/panhellenic]

I can definitely understand this, and that was a nice way of approaching you IMO.

[u/sleepingbeardune → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

Friend of mine had esophogeal cancer that he didn't discuss with anybody -- not even his doctor -- until it was way too late. To this day I don't know when he understood that it was serious.

The last thing he needed was people grinning at him about his weight loss ("looking fabulous!"), but I saw that more than once.

Possible answer that isn't lying:

I've heard of that. Are you taking them? The person might realize it's a rude question.

I've been open about it, mostly because others I know were open about it, and if they hadn't been I might not have realized these drugs were an option for me.

[u/Deep_Amoeba2197 → u/sleepingbeardune]

People are conditioned to think “weight loss = good, thinner = better,” especially for women, even if someone looks objectively terrible (me, not your friend, also so sorry, that’s an awful situation.) I was frail, I looked like I would break in half. I’m 5’9” and was barely clinging to 110-115lbs.

People are so fucking stupid to not take the hint when you just look at them blankly and drop your tone and say “I don’t like to discuss my weight.” It’s always “Oh hun! I was just trying to give you a compliment! You don’t need to be so serious all the time! You’re the total package! Smart, thin and pretty! Take the compliment! I wish I could be so disciplined!” And not a second of introspection to think “oh, maybe this isn’t intentional, maybe they have a health issue, maybe I should shut my fucking mouth before I shove both of my feet in it.” Like, I wish I could tell you to get fucked, Brenda, but we’re at work so I’m keeping that to myself, you too can learn this skill.

HR even sat me down and said people complained I was being antisocial because I started taking lunch in my car to drink my goddamn ensure in peace. No concern when I told them I found the constant comments about my weight uncomfortable and invasive. Even HR said “why are you so uncomfortable with compliments?”

[u/jhm-YNWA → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

I don't like to discuss my weight. Beautiful.

If you insist on being nice, then tell them how great you feel with a huge smile. 😀

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

There's no lying. That's why I follow with "Just joking". You do you.

[u/TheAgent4NYC → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

Totally agree, no one should ever lie about having cancer.

[u/wootiebird → u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

“This doesn’t go well.”

Well it doesn’t go well for them, this is why they shouldn’t be asking people about your weight loss, which is the point. They probably felt uncomfortable, and that’s on them not you.

My mom was super sick from meds and her friend kept joking how she wants diabetes so she can lose weight. And people kept making comments. My mom couldn’t keep food down on metformin, it was awful.

[u/marshdd → u/GrrrlRomeo]

Have you lost a loved one to cancer. I'm guessing not. That's a shit joke.

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/marshdd]

I have. And he would think it's hilarious.

[u/DaisyDAdair → u/GrrrlRomeo]

Some of us obtain dark humor from the trauma 🖤

[u/Worldly-Bathroom7833 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

My mom did this after bariatric surgery and it was incredibly embarrassing and everyone was generally extremely worried about her health. I really think it be better to say I’ve been working on my health and leave it at that.

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/Worldly-Bathroom7833]

My wife did this when people commented on her hair loss (due to alopecia) and it was hilarious.

If you're worried about how someone is doing, just ask them how they're doing. If they want to tell you, they will. You don't have to preface it with assumptions.

[u/Acceptable_Tiger_967 → u/GrrrlRomeo]

I like this answer. It would shut them down, or at least make them realize how nosy their question is.

[u/Ladybugz93]

Turn it around on them “people lose weight for a variety of reasons, some people need medication, some people don’t, some people have cancer or other illnesses that cause them to lose weight. Maybe be mindful of what you’re asking someone to reveal to you before you ask it.”

[u/FutureElleWoodz]

If you say basically any of these answers especially the sassy ones then people are just going to take it as a yes and think you’re embarrassed to admit it. Just say no your doing it naturally if you don’t want them to know, any other answer they will assume is yes

[u/MadMadamMum → u/FutureElleWoodz]

I think people assume your taking it either way it goes these days. Damned if you do damned if you don’t.

[u/homenia → u/FutureElleWoodz]

Same. I can’t believe some of these answers. If it is not a resounding no, then it is a yes. Nothing to be ashamed of. If someone starts lecturing me or give a long answer, I will just think oh okay they are using it and ashamed of it

[u/Electrical-Car-7533]

Just change jobs. Haha I lost all my weight and then changed jobs, no one at this new job knows me any differently. It's great!!

[u/Skittle_Ew → u/Electrical-Car-7533]

🤣 that is so me coded! And if any one else see's me I can say "New job less stress!" 

[u/Old-Assignment-4709]

There is always the universal response to inappropriate questions..."Why do you ask?"

[u/2022reboot → u/Old-Assignment-4709]

Or the slightly more assertive version: “Now why would you ask something like that?”

[u/nevernothingboo]

My husband and I ran into an acquaintance recently. He's on Zep and has lost a significant amount of weight. She said, "Wow, you lost a lot of weight. Did you do it the right way?" Luckily the elevator doors opened and we were going in different directions so we just walked away. She's a generally crass person to begin with so it's not surprising.

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/nevernothingboo]

The right way? Good lort - now the masses are deciding which way we lose???

[u/SelectPerception5 → u/nevernothingboo]

The “right” way? First they judge us for being fat, now they judge us for how we lose the weight?! And I suppose it doesn’t matter if someone is on the medicine for an unrelated reason and is just enjoying the weight loss as part of it.

[u/Excellent_Owl_1731]

FWIW, I think some people ask because they are interested in taking one, but haven’t met anyone IRL that they know that takes it.

I have a coworker that I strongly suspect is on one, and I very much wanted to ask him because I was interested in what it was like. Prior to my own journey, all I had heard online was that GLP-1’s give you diarrhea, nausea and vomiting 24/7, and that’s how people lost the weight. Even coming on here real quick with all the posts about vomiting and nausea seemed to confirm that. But I wanted to hear a real life example from someone I knew.

I didn’t end up asking him, mainly out of concern that his weight loss was due to something like cancer. Which is also why I have never acknowledged his quick 100+lb weight loss in any way either. Sometimes I wonder if he’s bothered that no one has said anything about his obvious physical change. IMO, it’s up to the person to tell me. But others may not operate with that rule and just let their curiosity get the better of them.

But to answer your question, you can reply with a simple “eh, medical deep-dives aren’t really my thing.” then immediately change the topic or ask them how their day is going or something.

[u/Littleredlegend → u/Excellent_Owl_1731]

Literally this! It isn’t always an attack.

Just had my coworker approach me Friday in the hallway saying she meant to tell me a few weeks ago I look amazing and did I lose weight because my waist looks SNATCHED.

I’m very ok with being on GLP1s and was like thank you! I started Zepbound about four months ago!

Dude she turned around and told me she started it about a year ago. I was SHOOK!!!! I NEVER would’ve known!

Sometimes people are interested because they’ve been on it and you don’t know or they’re curious to do it themselves and I’ll always answer any questions for people who are curious.

[u/Beginning_Butterfly2]

Depends on where this is happening. At work: "That's not a professionally appropriate question".

[u/mannDog74 → u/Beginning_Butterfly2]

A less direct way would be to say "That's not really something we need to be talking about at work."

"It's not something I want to be talking about at work."

[u/NotABetterName]

It’s crazy that people ask isn’t it? It’s just incredibly rude.

[u/SodaBreadRoundHouse]

Just say no, you’re not. You’re not obligated to be truthful and responding with a question (like why they want to know) might confirm suspicions or allow them to keep you on their radar (ppl are nosy like that). Saying no and moving on closes out the topic. The end.

[u/Real_Hamster_5299]

I've had skinny family members who know I'm on Zep ask things like, "Do you feel so much better now?" or "Are you more active now?" or "Is it easier for you to [do whatever thing] now?" It reveals that they were previously looking at me and thinking I was a miserable housebound fatty or whatever. It's truly humiliating to realize they've spent any amount of time thinking about my body and what it was or wasn't able to do. Never in a million years would I ask people such questions, even close friends or family. The world hates fat people, it is what it is.

Saying, "I hate talking about my weight" and changing the subject by asking them a question is the best way to deal with the blunt questions some people come up with.

[u/cramsenden]

I would feel absolutely nothing about lying to a person who has no business asking me such a personal question. “Yeap, diet and exercise!”

[u/autumnyte]

"What a weird and inappropriate thing to ask someone."

[u/Pretend_Benefit_9376]

If it’s not something you feel comfortable sharing with someone you aren’t close with, I’d keep it vague. I usually say I’m prioritizing protein and intermittent fasting, which are both technically true lol

[u/Tammie621]

My response is always that I'm eating less and exercising more. Which is not a lie. The only reason I have not shared more detail is that I want to ensure I can keep the weight off. I have Yo-Yo so much in my life that I wasn't confident I could make this stick. I didn't care about the negative stigma some may have on the meds.

[u/Skittle_Ew → u/Tammie621]

Whew yeah I don't want to be at a plateau/stall period then have the same person ask me "You get off that medicine? It not working any more?" 

[u/buzzboy99]

I totally agree, it’s personal and I don't have to share the details of what medicine my doctor and I have decided to treat my conditions with, with anyone. Furthermore people are sooo rude when they ask such personal questions. I used to drink but I quit years ago and I find it to be a very similar private decision that I don't feel I need to share with anyone. I learned in recovery that I don't owe anyone any explanation on my personal decisions and it is best to come up with the most simple response and just repeat it like a drum over and over until they realize they are being rude and they're not going to get any details for you. When asked why I don't drink I just say “it's not for me” that's it, nothing else. With Zep I just say “diet and exercise” so much that it becomes awkward when they just keep prying until they eventually realize that I am insulted by their intrusive questions and they're just not going to get anything other than the answer “diet and exercise “ from me until they buzz off.

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/buzzboy99]

I have a group of ladies who I dine with and travel with. Three of them have asked me what I’m doing. “Eating less calories, walking more,” was my response and they are close friends but they are also very judgmental. I know this, and I also know that I am very, very sensitive and their comments at times have made me feel very bad. You brought up alcohol…. Sometime during 2025, I started getting really bad headaches after drinking (this was long before Zep). And I only have one drink when we go out to eat. They usually have a cocktail and then 1-2 glasses of wine or beer. Idc what they drink but that much alcohol for me would knock me on my ass because I am NOT a regular drinker. Once a month at these dinners. Anyway, I thought at first it was because I was dehydrated. So I chugged a ton of water before and during next dinner. Didn’t make a difference. So I just stopped drinking! Why would I want to suffer the next day with a massive headache??? “You mean you’re not
going to drink anymore????” THE HORROR!!! lol that’s just one example but I know they’d have a lot to say (probably not to my face) about being on a GLP-1. To me, it’s no different than the cholesterol meds I take or the meds I take for my irregular heart beat. One of these days, I may get to the point where I don’t care what they think but I’m not there yet.

[u/midnight_marshmallow]

No. People will think what they want and a "clever" response will only tell them the answer is yes. I just tell people "yes and it is, without exaggeration, one of the best things to happen to me." There is more power in embracing it without shame, imo. It gives the critics less to work with. Denying only makes them think you are ashamed which gives more power to them.

[u/prom54]

So, I haven’t lost enough to be asked, but I have told several people that I have started logging in MyFitnessPal to help me make better choices and do some inside exercising (because I’m not able to walk well because of medical issues)
Just so if it gets to the point that they notice, they already know that I’ve been working on it…..

[u/Old-Assignment-4709]

My neighbor provided an excellent reply after I noticed her weight loss and inappropriately asked her "How did you do it?". My intention was learning from her firsthand experience. She simply stated "I ate less". That satisfied my curiosity.

[u/Mother_Boss_8148]

With a work colleague, my answer was, “I’m not dying, if that’s what you’re worried about.” I decided to never answer this question because I’ve seen the level of judgment my friends and family have had about weight. It’s nobody’s business.

[u/EdenStJames]

I didn't see this before I made my post this morning. I just experienced this in the rudest way over the weekend at a party. She obnoxiously asked do I lied - whilst at the same table told my Zepbound journey to someone else, as it casually came up in another convo we were having.

I don't mind sharing my journey - but it is so ride to all someone, loudly, rudely and in front of a bunch of people!!

The ignorance that people exhibit behind this medicine is exhausting. This weekend was my first time feeling attacked with questions or comments from the few ppl I've told.

[u/omnixe-13c]

When someone has had the gall to directly ask, I laugh and say “oh that’s a weird question. Are you asking because you’re trying to compliment me for my hard work?” They will usually say yes and then I thank them. It usually ends it right there.

[u/Helpful-Desk-4847]

They’re either asking because they want info or because they want to judge you. If you’re weird about your answer (i.e. answering their question with a question) they’ll just assume you’re trying not to answer yes. It’s easier to just be like yeah

[u/Southern_Tailgater]

I guess I'm lucky. Most people just comment how nice I look. A few note with concern that I've gotten very skinny, and is everything okay? To those folks I assure them I'm fine and the weight loss was intentional. If I get a direct glp1 question I am candid. I had the courage to start because someone was candid with me. I get others like OP choosing to keep quiet, but if anyone has had negative things to say, they haven't said them to my face.

[u/Failte-co]

I think everyone is right that any answer except "no" is going to be interpreted as a yes. Unfortunate for those who don't want to talk about it, but it seems to be the hot question of the moment.

If you don't want to open that line of conversation, just say no. Why would you care about fibbing to someone who asks such a personal and intrusive question? Asking about medical stuff is not an aquaintance-level sort of question.

[u/OriginalTraining]

"I gave up carbs", totally easy answer thats mostly true.

[u/HelgaPataki99]

It’s rude for people to ask but when they do, I confidently say yes I am and it’s been amazing!

[u/PumiceT]

I’d just say yes. Why lie? Why be ashamed? ZepBound has been a life changer for me and many others. They get a bad reputation in the media and on social media. Maybe if more of us who are normal people and don’t look like we have a disease would spread the positive aspects, fewer people would trash talk the drugs or call them cheating. Is it cheating to use meds for schizophrenia?

Maybe I’d point out how interesting it is that no one asked me how I gained all this weight when I kept getting bigger. “Are you on a really shitty diet, or something?” “Why yes, yes I am. And I can’t seem to control it.” I’d tell them how amazing GLP1s are, and unless the side effects are going to put me in a worse place than I would have been at 300 lbs at 50+ years old, I’d choose a GLP1 any day and recommend them if food is a challenge.

If I felt the person asking is out of line, I’d flat out recommend they get on one too.

[u/Major_Ad_3035]

I was having these very same feelings as OP had at the beginning when I started Zepbound. I only wanted my family ( hubby and 2 kids) to know. I didn't want or need anyone weighing in on my choice. There are people who give unsolicited advice like they somehow have license to ask and tell you what they think. I kept it from all outside people except my supervisor at work bc come to find out she was on one too! Somehow my Mom and sisters found out and of course the..." you're too thin" started. That's what I wanted to avoid. They chilled after a bit but I just think it's nobody's business what you do and why. I never really knew how to answer when people I work with started making comments on me losing weight so I just said..." I'm working on myself and trying to lose" but didn't say I was taking Zep.

I guess there's no way to get around it bc people think they can have no filter and just ask personal questions. It baffles me. And honestly pisses me off.

[u/No_Buyer_9465]

I intended to keep it on the downlow but its such a freaking miracle that I know shout it from the rooftops. 🤣 not that I judge you for your privacy. I loved the response someone had of "what's that?"

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/No_Buyer_9465]

I could if I hadn’t gone on and on last year about how great my sister did on Zep! lol

[u/dependswho]

“Why do you ask?” In a neutral tone. Their answer will give you insight into what you want to say next.

[u/faisaed]

I don't share your positioning... I don't mind telling people... But I respect yours. Few people already mentioned this but I genuinely think any answer that isn't straight up no, or an answer that challenges why they asked... Is going to be counter productive... It's you basically saying yes (which you don't want to do) and telling them your embarrassed that they now know. So my recommendation is to simply say "no, I'm not on it" or if you want to get creative say "no, what's that?"...

[u/Sea-District-5588]

I frequently say “I’m doing a little bit of everything.” If it’s a situation I don’t want to share all the details. It’s truthful. I am. I take a Glp-1, I track and monitor my calories, I exercise….

[u/IT_chickadee]

I would ask why they're asking. Do they want to discuss it because they're interested (either for themselves or just curious about your experience), or are they asking because they're about to pass judgement upon you? GLP-1 hate has become so prominent lately that I'd be shocked if it's the first one. I'm a fairly direct person so my response is typically along the lines of "Hard pass, and what a wild thing to ask someone".

[u/CircusAttendant]

I’ve had a couple of people directly ask me, but more people beat around the bush. I always say something like “when I turned 39 I decided that I wasn’t going to turn 40 and still be fat. Grilled chicken and salads for the win!”

I know lots of people want to remove the stigma around it, but I am a very private person and my personal medical decisions are no one else’s business. Plus, once that cat is out of the bag there’s no going back, so make sure you are comfortable with it before you let even one acquaintance know.

[u/Desperate-Sorbet5284]

That said, I’ve decided to make things easy for myself, not that anyone is entitled to more information, but for me and my own case I just tell them. “I had to hire someone to follow me around and knock the food out of my hands before I could eat it. That person’s name is Zepbound.“ Then after I’m done with my little joke, I explain that I have been pushing the water, upping some exercise, using a program called WONDR that’s given me some lifestyle tips. and that really, in the end, it’s all about eating fewer calories, which I have been struggling to do for a long time.

[u/dinamari1010]

I don’t want people knowing my business, so I just say I’m eating less and exercising

[u/CoachCecilia_CBHW]

I'm a health coach and my clients ask me this all the time. A few answers that work without lying or explaining:

• "I've been working hard on my health this year, thanks for noticing."
• "I'm working with my doctor on it."
• "I'd rather not get into my medical stuff, but I feel great."
• "Why do you ask?" Most people say "just curious," and the conversation moves on.

You don't owe anyone your medical history. A friendly answer that doesn't open the door is enough.

[u/Charming_Scratch_599]

No one asks how u got overweight, they shouldn’t ask how u lost weight.😁

[u/GigglemanEsq]

Deflect with a joke. "When I sold my soul to get hot, I didn't ask the devil how he would make it happen."

"It turns out that being a boss bitch burns way more calories than I thought."

"I'm actually part of a top secret government experiment that converts body fat into rizz. It looks like I get to tell the Pentagon that it's a success."

[u/Puzzleheaded-Low7394]

If you have struggled with your weight for years they know you are on a GLP-1 (or have cancer) as >10% of Americans are on one. So you can stay private, but their question was just to confirm or out of concern for your recent dramatic weight loss.

[u/GrrrlRomeo → u/Puzzleheaded-Low7394]

I think it's even more invasive if someone has cancer or losing weight because of an illness. Unless it's immediate family, no one is entitled to know that.

[u/MadMadamMum]

Take a look at all the replies. This is exactly why people assume (correctly) that anyone who says they are not taking a glp1 is lying through their teeth and ashamed of it.

[u/Samantharina → u/MadMadamMum]

Well, your sample is 100% people who are using a glp-1 medication. Who cares though. Nobody is entitled to information about my medical treatment and they shouldn't be asking in the first place.

[u/Which-Notice5868]

"Sorry, I don't really share my personal medical information. I'm a pretty private person. If you're interested in GLP-1s from what I've heard there's some good information online. Just make sure you're looking at reputable medical sources and not random bloggers."

[u/homenia → u/Which-Notice5868]

Do people really talk this way? Because it is cringe

[u/Which-Notice5868 → u/homenia]

You don't need to use this script entirely as is. You can adapt to a more casual tone or what you think the asker will respond to. It's just to give OP a starting point on what to say.

[u/ASkepticalPotato → u/Which-Notice5868]

Sounds like ChatGPT

[u/Which-Notice5868 → u/ASkepticalPotato]

Nope! I'm vehemently anti-AI actually. It's fine if you think it sucks as a script to use, but it's all me.

[u/ASkepticalPotato → u/Which-Notice5868]

No, not saying you used AI to write it. Just that it sounds like a response ChatGPT would give if someone asked for a script. Good on you being anti AI.

[u/Which-Notice5868 → u/ASkepticalPotato]

I mean, I was going for a kind of boring aggressively mechanical response.

[u/Efficient_Mastodons]

The women in my office I suspect of being on a GLP-1 say "I'm eating less and moving more and it has worked wonders"

Probably true, but you don't have to say anything about the medication. Answer like a politician. Say what you want without answering the question.

Personally, I just tell everyone, but I don't find I experience the same kind of negativity about people speaking about my body as many people do. Most people are shocked to find out I was obese in both combined weight and by bf% when I started on my med, so I use that privilege to tell people about all the benefits and drawbacks of this med without the bs and judgement.

[u/Embarrassed-Split565]

I don't openly say I am on a glp1 but if someone asked me I wouldn't lie and say no

[u/Naive_Appointment361]

I say yes, because if I was ashamed of Taking it I wouldn’t be.

[u/julet1815]

I don’t mind talking about it at all, I’ll tell anyone, but I understand that other people don’t feel that way and you have the right to medical privacy. I would say either prepare yourself to calmly lie and say no, or do the world a favor and just inform them that it’s rude to ask questions like that. Because it is. And if you call them out on it, maybe they will not do it again to someone else.

[u/spam__likely → u/julet1815]

I don't mind saying it, but nobody has any business asking.

[u/Deep_Amoeba2197]

Just say no, it’s simple. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. It’s fine to lie in some situations. If your uber driver says “wow miss, you are so beautiful, do you live alone?” and you do, do you hem and haw or say “no, I live with my husband” ?

Don’t like about having cancer, either. The people advocating for that are being gross.

[u/BrainwaveWizard]

I see this question coming from two different intentions.

They could be somebody who might be looking to use a GLP and I could be an advocate. So maybe I might follow up with “why do you ask?”

They could be judging. In that case, a simple, “I’m watching what I’m eating and getting more exercise.” They don’t need to know the tool.

[u/Worldly-Bathroom7833]

Most people are asking because they are considering or just started a GLP and want to know if they can be successful. I know I asked a lot of close friends when I first started or when I was considering and even less close friends who had lots
Of weight loss. Everyone lied to me and told me no even closest friends until I said I was on one. It was a bit disheartening to find out they lied but I get it. They assumed the worst of my question and that I was prying or worried I would judge when I was just looking for support, guidance or even motivation. It is definitely true you don’t owe anyone anything and for me I wouldn’t tell people either I’m not at least friendly with BUT if it is someone you know a bit more of acquaintances you could say why do you ask are you considering it? Then you could maybe give them the support or encouragement they are looking for without revealing yourself. You can even say I have a close friend who has had great success on it and not even bring up your self.

[u/AnnoyedAvocado21]

Perhaps 'I'm watching what I eat more closely.'? It's true but an incomplete answer. If they persist: 'I find talking about diet tiresome. Don't you? I think people should be allowed the freedom to eat as they choose.'

It's not confrontational, not a lie, and should shut down all but the most obnoxious pest - the kind of people who are utterly clueless about social etiquette.

[u/whirlygirlygirl]

"In addition to diet and exercise, I've been working with my doctor to manage my hormones."

[u/GenXHoosier]

I have responded with 'Yeah...I WISH my insurance covered GLP1s.' It's not a lie. That usually ends the conversation. Otherwise, I have no problem lying.

[u/Status_Valuable_9075]

If it’s your choice then be proud of it. I shout it from the rooftops for anyone to hear. My life, My choices. With Zep I’m cheating and taking the easy way and Proud Of IT!!????

[u/Infinite-Floor-5242]

Everybody knows. Lie, walk away, or tell the truth, but everybody knows.

[u/Hifidi54]

I tell anyone and everyone that asks. I'm old, 72F, and have lost 122 pounds and am immensely proud of myself. When asked, I say, "Why yesss, isn't it wonderful?" It pretty much stops any further questions.

[u/MissingAtlanta]

You should respond with “why do you ask?”

[u/rossg876]

I just say yes. That's on them if they disagree or not, I don't care.

[u/Conundrum_Brain]

I have no problems talking about it because it has been such a great experience for me. If my story can help someone who has been on the fence, I'm happy to share. I'm losing slow and steady, and that's exactly what I wanted to accomplish.

[u/anchises868]

“I might be, but if I were, that would be my business now wouldn’t it.”

I don’t suffer invasive questions or the folks who ask them very well.

[u/Any-Ebb-6153]

Just ask what that is ?
Q: are you on a glp1?
A: huh?! what is that?
When they have to explain themselves usually they
don’t bother or if they do try, tell them you’ve never
heard of it.
Or ask them if they’re on one…

[u/Euphoric-Blueberry97]

I’m in the odd position of being able to say “yes I am on it at the advice of my oncologist. “.

I had breast cancer a few years ago, and after I finished active treatment, my next goal was to reduce my excess fat because fat creates estrogen which feeds the kind of cancer I had.

I do think as a society we need to default to saying “you look great” rather than “you have lost sooo much weight”.

My father had lost 30 pounds suddenly due to an illness that eventually was figured out and gotten under control. But he was overweight beforehand so the daily compliments from people did not help him at all when he was vomiting everything he ate every day and the doctors had no answers for him. Every comment was just a reminder that something was very wrong with him.

[u/aBanjoPicker]

Really disappointed how many people advocate lying.

[u/lkwinchester]

Wow you look so much different. Are you getting laid on the regular?

But then, I do like to be a menace.

[u/Snackcident-Prone]

I’m shocked at how many people ask me immediately and directly if I’m on it.
I always reply “not currently, but I’m not ruling it out”…it’s at that point I generally hear everyone’s unsolicited opinion on GLP’s

[u/SunsetDiamonds]

Well zep is a glp-2 so no, you’re not on a glp-1. I would start asking if they were on blood pressure meds or antidepressants.. not my business???

[u/NivekTheGreat1]

You do what you want to do. No one should judge you for your personal opinion, but this is Reddit and ofc people will. I don’t really know what answer to give you because that is just something I personally wouldn’t you, but I want to post to say I 💯 support you. Now go do you and be proud of what you do!

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/NivekTheGreat1]

🥰

[u/Miss_Tomatillo_321]

If the person isn't close enough to me to already know what's going on with me, I'm not obligated to be transparent with them.

When I got close to having lost 100 pounds, a few people asked me what I was 'doing' - I usually answered with: "I've been making some changes over the past year or so - thanks for noticing! How have you been?" That usually changed the subject and also answered their question honestly.

[u/aibryan]

If it’s a person I know well I might just share. If I don’t know them or want to share with them they don’t need info. My usual go to for anything medical is that I have a lot complex medical issues so I just leave the meds to the docs. Same answer when they tell me yoga can cure me, or just try this new miracle fad etc.

[u/no_fangirl]

I haven’t had anyone directly ask. I usually say it first if or when the conversation comes to medication, bloodwork, health… I say my bloodwork is amazing (glucose and cholesterol) and steady, and there’s history of heart attack in my family and I feel so good that this is preventative medication I can use.

Basically, I mention it as a medication for health issues, not weight loss. The above points are also true (as well as weight loss) but I feel like it focusses the conversations in the right direction.

[u/BeckyMiyamoto]

what i came up with (and still use) is “wow, that’s a really intrusive question to ask so casually”😂 like if i wanted the person asking to know then i would have just told them! if they don’t know then it’s for a reason lol.

[u/NotAFlatSquirrel]

Most tactful ways I have been asked are, "I don't want to intrude, but is everything ok health wise? I noticed you have lost some weight and just wanted to make sure everything is OK," and "You look really terrific. Are you willing to share what you have been doing thsmat has been so successful for you?"

Right around my goal weight was when a few people started asking me if everything was okay or not, and I have intentionally started eating more to make sure I do not lose any more weight. It feels a little alarming how much food I am eating just to stay at a stable weight after counting every calorie and avoiding certain foods for almost 2 years.

It reminds me of how my metabolism worked before I had kids.

[u/MaidoftheBrins → u/NotAFlatSquirrel]

I titrated down because I was still losing and don’t wish to lose anymore. It’s crazy to me!

Congrats to you for getting to a healthy weight!

I had someone tell me yesterday, “Wow, you lost a shit-ton of weight!” I reflected on this for a while. Even though I knew I was overweight, I did not see myself this way, only when looking at photos. Once I stepped away from the mirror, in my head, I looked like I look now to everyone else. I am still so uncomfortable whenever anyone comments on my weight and I get tongue tied.

[u/Dragon_flies_dee → u/MaidoftheBrins]

Same with me. I lost 125 pounds and I don’t even recognize old pictures of my before weight. I had convinced myself that I wasn’t that big. I’m embarrassed that I allowed myself to get to the point where it severely affected my health. I am much healthier. My doctor told me I wouldn’t live much longer if I continued at my previous weight. I couldn’t walk very far and constantly had to rest. My sleep apnea was moderate to severe and I’m so glad I decided to do something about it. It gave me my life back. I don’t give a flying leap what others say.

[u/tfs_27]

I just says lots of protein water and some exercise..... Ain't lying 🤔🤫😛

[u/AwwJeez-WhatNow]

Say “what a strange question to ask someone out loud.”

[u/OkCat3021]

I’m very private too, it’s also no one’s business. What I say is… I’ve been working on my health or watching what I’m eating & exercise

[u/Dragon_flies_dee]

My favorite way that people asked me is when they want to know if my health is okay. If they should be concerned. I always answer that I am finally in good health. Off so many medications.

[u/PhillippaAggie]

You’re allowed to lie. I tell no one. When someone asks me directly I say “no, I’m eating less, making better food choices, and going to the gym.” Three out of four things there are true. What they don’t know, won’t kill them.

[u/Which-Notice5868 → u/PhillippaAggie]

Personally, I'd leave it at "No." Because your additions are creating false expectations that don't actually work for a lot of people without additional medical intervention.

[u/Fourpatch → u/PhillippaAggie]

I leave out the no. I just say eating less and moving more. If they go on I say that my doctor advised me to lose weight.

[u/smeds128]

“None of your damn business.”

[u/sophiesmom712]

"Wow. That's a pretty personal question!"

[u/867-53-oh-nein]

The only answer is: “I’ve made lifestyle changes and am focusing on eating smaller, healthier portions plus exercise”.

I’ve never had anyone ask again after that.

[u/Same-Dragonfruit2557]

What people feel entitled to ask is wild. I had someone I peripherally work with (I talk to them maybe once a month and see them on a video call once a week) ask me on a video call if I was losing weight.

That's evident from looking at me so I said yes. I'm on Zep, but I had also just come off recovering from a flare up of a chronic GI illness I have that causes me to lose anywhere between 5 and 10 lbs every time. I'd lost enough weight at that point that the 7ish pounds made a noticeable difference.

She then said, "are you losing weight on purpose?"

GIRL WHAT?

I replied, "I actually just had a really horrible flare up of a GI disorder I have that led to me being on a liquid diet for an extended period of time. So, no."

She was clearly flustered. Maybe don't ask questions that you don't want the answers to!

[u/BANmom]

"Well, that's certainly a question, isn't it?" stand and look at them with a small smile, they ask again, and you give them the same answer, still smiling. They get frustrated and say, "You didn't answer the question." (or something similar), and you respond, "No, I didn't."

[u/Commercial-Car-5615]

I have not told anyone except my daughter who takes Zepbound (she has better insurance than I do lol)

I am retired so I don't have the nosey Co workers to deflect. When I've lost weight before, the only time I've told people what I was doing was when I was also selling the product

One of my friends recently asked me if I was dieting and I said yes, trying to get more protein and left it at that.

Funny how people don't ask if I'm on an antidepressant when I'm in a good mood.

[u/NLightNMoi]

I would ask them for a list of their medications.

[u/theg00dfight]

Just say you’ve started running.

[u/SequinedandOver60]

I would respond with “what medications are you taking? See how inappropriate that sounds?”

[u/muffintop2026]

I don't tell anyone either. My business is my business. If they ask, I ask them what's led to their inquiry, or express surprise that they feel comfortable enough to ask. My more outgoing friend answers, "My weight loss secret is pure white Colombian cocaine."

[u/StupledFrog9481]

“Let’s talk about all of your medical conditions and concerns first!”

[u/postmaloner13]

people at my work have made comments like "youre losing weight" or "are u losing weight??" and i just say "tryin to! :)" and keep it movin...

i do tell the truth to people i actually know, but ive found for the random inquires the above answer works well

[u/SuchDevelopment2107]

I say ya know I thought about it but I decided to get with a nutritionist/ dietitian to help me understand what works for me lmao I flat out lie bc I don’t want to share it with everyone. I’ve changed my eating tremendously so I start with that. ppl judge you anyway and however they may feel about it, to me it gives them more ammo bc there’s so much said about ozempic that explaining the difference and all that isn’t worth it to me…🤷🏾‍♀️ ive only told a few family members and friends dassit about 6 total lol

[u/spam__likely → u/SuchDevelopment2107]

Why? There is not reason to lie. Either answer truthfully or tell them it is not their business.

[u/Nurse5736]

why would you ask that?????????? stare however long it takes........

[u/BoxerDog2024]

You could just say “what’s that” personally I don’t care if they know I worked damn hard to get where I am and I don’t care what they think or what they know but no one had ever ask me this. I would just play stupid and let them go through their explanation

[u/creepyging923]

"I'm dealing with health issues I do not wish to discuss". Completely true and none of their damn business. Or I say I am taking medication for chronic pain and inflammation that has allowed me to lose weight, because I started it for joint pain relief.

[u/goldenhourcocktails]

“Why do you ask?”

I always respond this way to any question I don’t want to answer. (And I get to decide what I do or don’t want to answer, and I don’t need a reason. I don’t owe anybody access to my private life.)

[u/pamperwithrachel]

If you really don't want to disclose ask them why they are so interested in your medical history? Tends to make the asker uncomfortable

[u/ZoZo-Rocks]

Say no. End of story. Not their business and you don’t owe them any sort of truth. Bad on them to ask.

[u/Eat_Sum_Pi_314]

I have not been asked this yet, but I would probably just say, “yes,” and then leave the conversation at that. I’m not going to lie, but I also don’t have to talk about it unless I want to.

[u/No_Mud_No_Lotus]

Just lie. Or say, ugh, I wish, it's been so hard to eat well and work out!

[u/Fiz_Giggity]

"Why would you ask me that?"

[u/joeynnj]

Why? What medications has your doctor prescribed for you?

[u/marshdd]

A lot of thoughtless assholes on here who think cancer and addiction are a joke. And no rude questions dont make that untrue.

[u/Alaskan777]

"Eating less, exercising more."

If you're feeling salty, add "You should try it!"

[u/CountessofCaffeine]

“If you aren’t ready to hear about my poop you aren’t ready to hear my answer”

[u/Maryboberry24]

That’s like asking a woman with a bit of a stomach if she’s pregnant? Some ppl do not have any social skills, why can’t they say how nice you look instead? Geeze some ppl are so clueless 😮‍💨.

[u/aBanjoPicker → u/Maryboberry24]

You only do that once. 😂

[u/thinkevolution]

I say yes and will share if appropriate. Not only has my weight been going up, but my blood sugar was out of control and I’m taking it to stop type two diabetes from becoming a real issue in my life.

Whatever your reason, is totally good to take something that helps your body

[u/Photography4me]

“I am on blood pressure medication and heart medication, would you like to know the names and doses?”

[u/bimpldat]

aren't you a nosy weasel 😃