Getting a GLP-1 prescription for weight loss is pretty straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you go through your primary care doctor, a specialized weight loss clinic, or a telehealth platform, the path follows the same general pattern.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
The FDA criteria for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Wegovy and Zepbound boil down to two paths: BMI of 30 or higher (obesity), or BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related health condition — things like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea. Plenty of clinics will also consider patients at BMI 25+ depending on the individual situation.
Step 2: Choose Your Provider Type
Primary care doctor: If you already have a PCP you trust, this is the easiest route. Most primary care doctors prescribe GLP-1s now. The downside is they may not have as much hands-on experience fine-tuning doses or managing tricky side effects.
Weight loss clinic: These places do this all day. You'll typically get nutrition counseling, body composition tracking, and a provider who really knows how to work the insurance prior authorization process. Find a clinic near you.
Telehealth platform: Great if you don't have good local options or just want speed. Most can get you an appointment within a week. Some also offer compounded medications at a lower price point. Find telehealth providers.
Step 3: Initial Consultation
Your first visit covers the basics: health history, BMI check, blood pressure, a conversation about what you've tried before for weight loss, lab work (blood sugar, thyroid, liver and kidney function), and a discussion about which medication fits your situation and budget.
Step 4: Insurance Authorization
If you're using insurance, your provider submits a prior authorization. The insurer wants to see documentation of your BMI, any weight-related conditions, and often proof that you've tried diet and exercise programs before. Turnaround time ranges from a day to two weeks, depending on the insurer.
Step 5: Starting Your Medication
Every GLP-1 medication starts at a low dose that gradually increases over several weeks — a process called titration. This keeps side effects manageable. Most people start noticing real appetite suppression within 2-4 weeks as the medication reaches effective levels.
Step 6: Follow-Up Schedule
Expect check-ins every 4-6 weeks while your dose is still being adjusted, then roughly monthly once you hit maintenance. These visits cover weight tracking, side effect management, dose tweaks if needed, and periodic lab work.
What If You're Denied?
Insurance denials happen a lot — don't take it personally. Your provider can file an appeal with additional documentation, and many succeed on the second try. If insurance flat-out won't budge, ask about cash-pay pricing, manufacturer savings programs, or compounded alternatives. Clinics in San Francisco, San Antonio, and Jacksonville regularly help patients work through these options.
Ready to get started? Browse GLP-1 clinics and book a consultation.