BMI Calculator for GLP-1 Eligibility
Check if you meet the BMI requirements for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound.
GLP-1 Eligibility by BMI
BMI 30+ (Obese)
You meet the BMI criterion in the prescribing information. FDA-approved weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound are approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher; a prescriber still has to review the rest of your health history.
BMI 27-29.9 (Overweight)
You may qualify if you have at least one weight-related condition (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea). Learn more about BMI requirements.
BMI Under 27
You generally do not meet the standard requirements for GLP-1 weight loss medications. Some clinics may still prescribe based on your overall health. Talk to your doctor about your options.
What Your BMI Means for Weight Loss
| BMI Range | Category | Meets the label's BMI criterion? |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18.5 | Underweight | No |
| 18.5 – 24.9 | Normal | No |
| 25 – 26.9 | Overweight | No |
| 27 – 29.9 | Overweight | Yes, with at least one weight-related condition |
| 30 – 34.9 | Obese I | Yes |
| 35 – 39.9 | Obese II | Yes |
| 40+ | Obese III | Yes |
The BMI thresholds are the ones in the FDA prescribing information for Wegovy and Zepbound. In the pivotal trials, adults on semaglutide 2.4 mg weekly lost about 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks (STEP 1) and adults on tirzepatide 15 mg weekly lost about 21% over 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1), each a treatment-arm average counting everyone who started. The trials did not report results by BMI band, and individual results vary widely.
Frequently Asked Questions
FDA guidelines require a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. The formula is: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m)². Our calculator handles the conversion from imperial units automatically.
No. While BMI is the main screening number, your doctor will also look at your overall health, medical history, current medications, and any weight-related conditions you have. Some patients with a BMI of 27-29.9 may qualify if they have a related condition like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea.
Generally no. GLP-1 weight loss medications like Wegovy and Zepbound are FDA-approved for adults with a BMI of 30+, or a BMI of 27+ along with at least one weight-related health condition. Off-label prescribing at lower BMIs is rare and up to the provider.
Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15-22% of body weight over 68-72 weeks on maximum doses of semaglutide or tirzepatide. Individual results vary based on starting weight, medication, dosage, diet, and exercise.
Most insurance plans that cover GLP-1 weight loss medications require a documented BMI of 30+, or a BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition (high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea), along with proof of prior weight loss attempts. See coverage by insurer.
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