FAQs

Do you prescribe brand name semaglutide or tirzepatide?

A prescription for a brand-name GLP-1 such as semaglutide or tirzepatide medications can be sent to your pharmacy of choice after provider review. Please note that brand-name GLP-1 medications are often significantly more expensive than compounded GLP-1 options. View our blog to learn more about the differences between compounded and brand-name GLP-1 medications and help determine which option may be best for your health and weight loss goals.

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Are GLP-1 medications covered by insurance?

Coverage varies depending on:

• insurance plan

• diagnosis

• medication prescribed

Some patients may qualify for coverage, while others may choose self-pay or compounded options.

 

Is medication included?
Medication costs are included on compounded GLP-1 treatment plans.

 

Is oral GLP-1 medication available?

​Yes — Oral GLP-1 Medications Are Available. Oral GLP-1 medications are now available and provide an alternative to weekly injections for some patients seeking weight loss or blood sugar control. View our blog to learn the differences between oral and injectable GLP-1 medications and make an informed decision about which option may be right for you.

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Is this available in my state?

We work with licensed clinicians across multiple states.

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What are common side effects of GLP-1 medications?

• nausea

• constipation

• diarrhea

• decreased appetite

• bloating

• fatigue

Most side effects improve gradually as the body adjusts.

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Do patients need to follow a diet while using GLP-1 medications?

Yes. GLP-1 medications work best when combined with:

• adequate protein intake

• fiber-rich foods

• hydration

• exercise

• long-term lifestyle changes

Our experienced medical team will design a personalized plan tailored to your health goals, lifestyle, medical history, and long-term weight loss success.

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Who may not be a candidate for GLP-1 medications?

Some patients with certain medical conditions may not be candidates. A physician evaluation is important before starting treatment.

 

How fast will I lose weight?
Results vary. Most patients experience gradual, steady weight loss.

 

In the major STEP-1 clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients lost about 15% of body weight over 68 weeks on semaglutide plus lifestyle intervention.

 

That averages roughly:

• 0.8–1.2 lbs/week over the full study period for many participants.

 

Typical real-world pattern:

• Weeks 1–4:

  • appetite reduction

  • mild weight loss

  • often 1–5 lbs total

• Months 2–6:

  • most consistent fat loss phase

  • often 1–2 lbs/week

• After 6–12 months:

  • rate usually slows

  • focus shifts toward maintenance and muscle preservation

 

Patients with:

• higher protein intake

• resistance training

• adequate sleep

• lower processed food intake

tend to preserve muscle better and maintain steadier fat loss.

 

Very rapid loss (>3–4 lbs/week consistently) raises concern for:

• muscle loss

• dehydration

• gallstones

• nutritional deficiencies

• rebound risk

 

Research also shows substantial variation between patients — some are “super responders,” while others lose more slowly.

 

A medically responsible expectation is usually:

• 5–10% body weight loss in 3–6 months

• 10–20% over 1–1.5 years with continued treatment and lifestyle changes.

 

Can patients regain weight after stopping GLP-1 medications?

Weight regain can occur if healthy habits are not maintained after discontinuing treatment. Long-term lifestyle changes remain important for lasting success.