Walking into a new medical appointment is always a little nerve-racking, and GLP-1 weight loss visits are no exception. Most people aren't sure what the process involves, how long it takes, or whether they'll walk out with a prescription that day. Here's a realistic picture of what typically happens.
Before the Appointment
Most clinics will send you intake paperwork ahead of time. Expect questions about your medical history, current medications, previous weight loss attempts, family history of obesity or diabetes, and your goals. Be honest and thorough here — the more your provider knows, the better they can tailor your treatment.
Some clinics require recent lab work (within 3-6 months), while others will order labs at your first visit. Common blood tests include a metabolic panel, thyroid function, A1C (to check for diabetes or prediabetes), and lipid panel. If you have recent results from your primary care doctor, bring them — it can save time and money. (See our savings calculator.)
The Consultation Itself
A good first appointment runs 30-60 minutes. Your provider will review your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and evaluate whether you're a good candidate for GLP-1 medication. They'll check your BMI, blood pressure, and may do a physical exam. (See our BMI calculator.)
This is also when they'll explain the medication options — semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) vs. tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) — and recommend one based on your health profile. Don't hesitate to ask why they're recommending a particular medication. A good provider will explain their reasoning.
Expect a frank conversation about realistic expectations. GLP-1 medications produce average weight loss of 15-22% of body weight over 12-18 months. Your provider should be upfront about that range rather than making promises about specific numbers.
Getting Your Prescription
If you're approved — and most people who meet the BMI criteria are — you'll get a prescription that day or within a few days pending lab results. The starting dose is always low (0.25 mg for semaglutide, 2.5 mg for tirzepatide) and increases gradually over weeks.
Your provider or their staff will walk you through how to use the injection pen. It's a subcutaneous injection — a short, thin needle into the belly, thigh, or upper arm. Most people are surprised by how simple and painless it is. You'll inject once weekly, same day each week.
If insurance is involved, the clinic typically handles the prior authorization. This can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Good clinics are experienced at this and know how to write authorizations that get approved. For more on the insurance side, see our guide to GLP-1 insurance coverage. (See our GLP-1 insurance coverage guide.)
Follow-Up Plan
Before you leave, you should have a clear follow-up schedule. Most clinics check in at 4 weeks, then every 4-8 weeks as you titrate up in dose. These visits are important — they're when your provider monitors for side effects, adjusts your dose, and tracks your progress with weight and lab work.
Some clinics also connect you with nutritional counseling or exercise guidance. Pairing exercise with your medication improves outcomes and helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss.
What It Costs
Initial consultations range from free to about $200-$350, depending on the clinic and whether labs are included. Many telehealth providers offer lower consultation fees. Some clinics bundle the consultation into a monthly membership that includes the medication. (See our telehealth GLP-1 providers.) (See our GLP-1 pricing guide.)
Ready to book? Find a GLP-1 clinic near you and compare options in your area.