Medical Weight Loss with GLP-1 Medications

Yes. Our internal medicine team evaluates adults for prescription weight loss medication, including semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), and supervises treatment with regular follow-up visits and lab work. Call (727) 820-7800 to schedule an evaluation.

FDA-approved weight loss medications are labeled for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher plus at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. They are used together with a reduced-calorie diet and more physical activity. A physician evaluation confirms whether a medication is safe and appropriate for you.

These medications carry a boxed warning and should not be used by anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). They are not used during pregnancy. A history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or diabetic eye disease calls for a careful conversation with your physician first.

In the large clinical trials, adults taking semaglutide 2.4 mg lost about 15% of their body weight on average over 68 weeks, and adults on the highest dose of tirzepatide lost about 20% over 72 weeks. Individual results vary, and the trial participants also followed diet and activity counseling.

Coverage depends on your plan and your diagnosis, and most plans require prior authorization. Medicare Part D has historically excluded drugs used only for weight loss, but it can cover a GLP-1 prescribed for another FDA-approved use, such as type 2 diabetes, reducing cardiovascular risk in adults with established heart disease, or obstructive sleep apnea with obesity. Because these rules keep changing, our staff will check your specific plan.

Compounded versions are not FDA-approved, which means the FDA has not reviewed them for safety, effectiveness, or quality. The FDA has received reports of dosing errors and has warned about counterfeit and illegally marketed products. We prescribe FDA-approved medications dispensed by a licensed pharmacy.

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose. Starting at a low dose and increasing it gradually helps. Severe, persistent abdominal pain should be reported right away, because it can be a sign of pancreatitis or gallbladder problems.

Studies show that most people regain a substantial portion of the weight they lost within a year of stopping. For that reason, weight loss medication is usually treated as long-term therapy, and the decision to continue, reduce, or stop is made with your physician.

Most GLP-1 medications are a small self-injection under the skin, given once a week. Oral semaglutide (Rybelsus) is a daily tablet approved for type 2 diabetes. We show you how to use your pen and what to do if you miss a dose.