LOSE 17% OR MORE OF BODY FAT*

For most people, yes. Like any prescription, they must be used under medical supervision. Prior to starting treatment, a review of the client's history, family history, and goals should be completed in order to determine if GLP-1 therapy is the best treatment option. The risks versus benefits of the medication must be determined by the medical provider.  Once treatment has been started, dose titrations should only be done at the direction of a qualified health professional and should be based on results and tolerability. 

Most GLP-1 medications are taken by injections under the skin into the fatty tissue, known as subcutaneous tissue. These are typically given in the abdominal area, thigh, or the back of the upper arm. The injections are given either daily or weekly depending on the medication that is prescribed. 

Some GLP-1 medications are also available in an oral tablet that is taken as a one time per day dose. 

Most recently, some compounded versions of the GLP-1 medications are available in a sublingual formulation. This form of the medication is taken as a one time per day dose, and is not FDA-approved at this time. 

Clinical trials show an average weight loss of approximately 14-17% of body weight over about a year when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. For a 200 pound person, this would mean an approximate weight loss of 34 pounds. 

It's important to note that results vary by individual and the personal level of commitment. Many individuals are achieving results that far surpass 15% loss of body weight, with some seeing the same results that can be achieved through bariatric surgery! 

Obesity and weight-related disorders are chronic conditions. Even once reaching your goal weight, it's important to remember that you then must maintain that weight, which is often just as hard as losing the weight. Many people benefit from ongoing treatment. If the medication is stopped abruptly, some weight regain is common, especially when stopped from a high dose. Those patients who titrate back down in dose prior to discontinuing the medication are having more success with maintenance than those who stop abruptly from a high dose. 

Coverage varies. Some plans cover GLP-1 medications for type 2 diabetes but not for weight loss. Our team will help verify your benefits and discuss affordable self-pay options. The manufacturers also offer pharmacy discount cards and reduced-rate self-pay pharmacies for clients who do not have adequate insurance coverage for the medication. 

GLP-1 medications are generally not recommended for: 

• People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (cancer)
• People with a personal or family history of MEN2 syndrome
• Those with a history of pancreatitis 
• Those with gastroparesis
• Those with a history of bowel obstructions