Frequently Asked Questions

GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

Personalized, effective care via telemedicine.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 medications work by binding to receptors in your body to

  • Stimulate insulin release

  • Lower blood sugar

  • Reduce appetite

  • Reduce inflammation

  • Slow digestion

Examples:

  • Semaglutide (Wegovy®, Ozempic®)

  • Tirzepatide (Zepbound®, Mounjaro®)

Who Can Take GLP-1 Medications?

These medications are ideal for individuals

  • Trying to lose weight

  • Diagnosed with obesity or overweight

  • Managing related conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, or menopausal weight gain

Understanding Compounded Medications

What Are Compounded Medications?

They are custom made to allow for more individualized treatment.

Are Compound Pharmacies Safe?

Yes, but always do your research. My practice uses Strive Pharmacy, which is a high-quality facility located in Gilbert, AZ that independently tests its products.

Do The Medications Contain the Same Ingredients as Brand Names?

Yes. Strive Pharmacy’s compounded versions include

  • Same active ingredients

  • Vitamin B12 (to reduce nausea)

  • Glycine (to help preserve muscle mass)

Why Offer Compounded Medications?

Personalization. Some patients require tailored doses to reduce side effects and improve tolerance—especially if they had trouble with standard medications like Wegovy or Zepbound.

Typical Dosages

Semaglutide

  • Typical brand name dosing starts at 0.25 mg/week and gradually increases to a target of 2.4 mg/week.

  • Compounded doses are tailored individually.

Tirzepatide

  • Typical brand name dosing starts at 2.5 mg/week and increases gradually up to 15 mg/week.

  • Compounded doses are customized per patient.

What Kind of Weight Loss Can You Expect?

  • Semaglutide: ~15% weight loss

  • Tirzepatide: 15–20% total body weight loss

  • Results can improve with

    • A Mediterranean-style, high-protein diet

    • Portion control

    • Exercise

What If I Couldn’t Tolerate Wegovy or Zepbound?

Compounded GLP-1s are ideal for sensitive individuals. Adjusting dosages can reduce side effects like

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea

Risks & Considerations

Common Side Effects

  • Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting

  • Can be managed with diet changes, supplements, and hydration

Rare Risks

Less than 1% experience gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or kidney issues—usually due to dehydration.

Cancer Risk?

Tirzepatide caused thyroid tumors in rodents, but it is unclear if it does in humans.


Not recommended for those with

  • A personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)

  • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2

Important: Watch for neck masses, difficulty swallowing, or persistent hoarseness.

About Your Visits

All appointments are telemedicine video visits.

Initial Consultation ($75)

  • Review your health history

  • Discuss goals

  • Build a customized plan

Follow-Up Visits ($50)

  • Adjust dosing

  • Address side effects

  • Track progress

Ready to Start?

Click here to schedule your consultation.