GLP-1 MEDICATIONS FOR WEIGHT LOSS

GLP-1 for Weight Loss: What’s All the Fuss About? Should I Try It, and Will My Insurance Cover It?

It seems like everyone you know is taking a GLP-1 medication—Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound. Friends and influencers alike swear these drugs make the pounds melt away, seemingly without side effects. But should you try one to lose those stubborn pounds around your belly and thighs? And what about the cost? Let’s unpack the facts.

1. How Do GLP-1 Drugs Work?

GLP-1 medications are weekly injections administered under the skin. They support weight loss by:

  • Reducing appetite

  • Slowing down digestion

  • Improving insulin sensitivity

They also cross the blood-brain barrier and act on both the nervous and endocrine systems.

2. What’s the Difference Between Them?

  • Ozempic and Mounjaro are FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes.

  • Wegovy and Zepbound are approved specifically for weight loss.

Although the active ingredients are similar, regulatory approval and insurance coverage differ. Some insurance plans are more likely to cover GLP-1s under a diabetes diagnosis, though more plans are beginning to cover them for weight loss as well.

3. Are They Right for Weight Loss Only?

Each medication comes in gradually increasing doses. As weight loss progresses and each dosage becomes less effective, a higher dose may be prescribed. However, it is not yet clear whether continued use is necessary to maintain weight loss after reaching your goal.

It’s important to know: these medications aren’t magic on their own. Long-term success requires commitment to:

  • Healthier eating habits

  • Regular exercise (at least 4 times per week)

  • Consistent use of the medication

GLP-1s work best as part of a broader lifestyle change.

4. Do They Have Side Effects?

Yes—mostly gastrointestinal. Around 15% of patients cannot tolerate the medication due to:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea or constipation

Other less common side effects may include insomnia or vivid dreams. Most side effects can be minimized with proper dosing, which is why working with a healthcare provider is crucial. Most patients primarily experience a reduced appetite.

5. Are They Covered by Insurance?

Coverage varies by insurance carrier and individual plans. The best way to find out is to contact your insurer directly.

Important warning: Medications sold online by mail-order or advertised in unsolicited emails are often compounded versions, which are unregulated, illegal, and potentially unsafe. These sources are currently being shut down by government agencies.

There is a safer, legal alternative:
With a prescription from our clinic, patients can purchase GLP-1 medication out-of-pocket. Prices range from $350–$500 per month, depending on the dosage, and the medication is shipped directly from the pharmaceutical company to your home.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule an appointment with us to find out if GLP-1 medication is a good option for you—and how we can support your weight loss journey.