GLP-1 medications are helping hundreds of thousands of Americans lose weight. But getting a GLP-1 prescription for weight loss can be an uphill battle.

So how does one get a GLP-1 prescription?

1. The first thing I would do is start doing your research. I always start with Reddit. There are subreddits for basically any subject including semaglutide and tirzepatide.
2. Next you’ll want to check if your health insurance will cover weight management or obesity care. Unfortunately most don’t. But if you’re one of the lucky ones, confirm coverage of Wegovy (semaglutide) or Zepbound (tirzepatide). There may be requirements or restrictions to coverage.
3. The third thing you’re going to want to do is consult with your primary care provider. Set up doctors appointment to express your desire for a GLP-1 medication prescription. Talk through your options. They will want to rule out any health conditions that would make you ineligible.
   • Your doctor will run labs at the very least. Make sure to collect all documentation from your doctor including lab results and visit summaries.
4. If your doctor prescribes your medication and your health insurance covers it, lucky you! How does it feel to be God’s favorite? Fill your prescription and enjoy that sweet, low/no co-pay.
5. Review all the information provided by your doctor and pharmacy and make sure you know how to inject and handle your supplies safely.
6. What if your doctor won’t prescribe a GLP-1? Let’s talk about compounded medications.

Compounded Semaglutide or Tirzepatide

Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are versions of these medications made by compounding pharmacies. Compounding pharmacies prepare custom medications by combining, altering, or modifying ingredients to meet specific needs. Due to high demand and supply shortages, compounded versions have gained attention as alternatives.

Because the FDA has declared a shortage of Wegovy and Zepbound, telehealth companies have been working with compound pharmacies to prescribe the compounded versions of these medications. Most of these pharmacies supply their patients with vials and syringes, rather than auto-injector pens that the name brand versions use.

Update: The FDA has made the decision that Tirzepatide is no longer in a shortage which means compounding of Tirzepatide will end in 2025. 503b Pharmacies are required to stop compounding Tirzepatide on March 19. 503a Pharmacies are required to stop compounding Tirzepatide on February 18. Some telehealth providers have already stopped prescribing Tirzepatide while others will continue until the stop dates approach. The Outsourcing Facilities Association (OFA) has made a statement that they will continue to fight the FDA’s decision. Further legal matters may delay the stop dates.

How to get Compounded GLP-1 Medications

As of this post, you can still get a GLP-1 prescription for both compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide although tirzepatide will start becoming scarce at the beginning of 2025 as telehealth companies start to close shop (for tirz).

If you want to go for it, here’s what you want to do.

1. Again, number one is.. research! The GLP-1 subreddits will have a lot of information on providers (hint: use the search bar). There’s even a pinned post with price comparisons. Which providers are available to you will also depend on your state.
2. Choose your provider and check their website for information, requirements, and pricing. Some allow you to choose your pharmacy/package and some will choose for you.
3. Sign up with your provider of choice. Many of them only require an online form to be submitted, no phone/video call required. They will ask for a picture of your ID. Some ask for recent labs and a recent photo.
4. Wait for approval and an invoice. After you pay your invoice, your order is sent to the pharmacy.
5. While you’re waiting for your medication, do more research! Make sure you understand how to inject and handle your supplies safely.
6. Find a sharps disposal program in your state. Some will send you a sharps container with shipping supplies to send it back for free.
7. Watch out for a shipping notification. Many pharmacies use overnight shipping. Your GLP-1 medication must remain cold so make sure you won’t be out of town when it’s delivered.
8. Once your package is delivered, make sure all your supplies are included and put your vials in the fridge until you’re ready for your first injection!
9. Always follow your provider/pharmacy’s dosing instructions and reach out to them with any questions!

My Recommendations

I have used several telehealth providers during my tirzepatide journey. I have added my 2 cents below. Some of the links are affiliate links which means I may get a credit or compensation if you sign up with them using my link.

NOTE: Some telehealth companies require a monthly subscription fee. Others only require an initial consult fee and sometimes a refill fee.

• Lavender Sky Health
  • This was the first telehealth company I signed up with. They have a TON of information on their (dated) website and you get more choice in the package you order. Their communication is hit or miss
• Orderly Meds
  • Their sign-up is straight-forward but I don’t love the way they communicate (texting from various phone numbers). I also felt like I didn’t have any choice in the package I was signing up for.
  • Affiliate Link
• Zappy Health
  • If you want to order in bulk, Zappy is one of the few options. They let you choose a monthly, 3-month, or 9-month option and ship your medication to you all at once.
  • Affiliate Link and $30 Off

Getting a GLP-1 prescription, whether through a traditional doctor’s visit or a telehealth provider, can be a transformative step for managing weight. While navigating eligibility and insurance pre-approvals may take some effort, the potential health benefits often make it worthwhile. Be sure to research options, gather any needed documents, and work closely with healthcare professionals to find the right approach. With the support of your doctor or a reputable telehealth service, a GLP-1 prescription could be within reach.