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You’ve heard the names. Ozempic®. Zepbound®. Semaglutide. Tirzepatide. GLP-1s seem to be everywhere, and you may have wondered how to get a GLP-1 prescription yourself.
But first, let’s make sure we understand what GLP-1 medications do and who they are for.
What is a GLP-1 and why are people using them?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic a hormone your body naturally produces, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), only their effects last much longer. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, as well as delays gastric emptying. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)
GLP-1s were originally prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes, but are now commonly prescribed for weight management as well. Most people who take a GLP-1 eat less, due to reduced appetite and slowed digestion, making it a useful weight-loss tool.
Traditional approaches to weight loss that focus on restrictive diets or extreme exercise regimens aren’t sustainable long term—which is one reason GLP-1s have become so popular. GLP-1 medications work with your body’s biology, not against it, so you don’t have to rely on willpower or feel hungry all the time in order to reach and maintain your goal weight.
Who qualifies for a GLP-1 prescription?
While it might seem like everyone you know has tried a GLP-1, certain criteria must be met before you qualify for a prescription.
You may qualify for a GLP-1 prescription if:
- Your BMI is 30 or higher
- Your BMI is 27 or higher and you have at least one weight-related condition (hypertension, diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, etc.)
Your medical provider will also take into account your medical history and health goals; BMI alone won’t get you a prescription.
Some GLP-1s, like Ozempic® and Mounjaro®, are FDA-approved for diabetes treatment but not weight management (though they may be prescribed off-label for weight management if deemed medically appropriate). GLP-1s FDA-approved for weight management include Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Zepbound® (tirzpepatide).
Any GLP-1, no matter what it is used for, requires a prescription from a licensed provider.
Explore more on BMI requirements for semaglutide and BMI requirements for tirzepatide.
How to get a GLP-1 prescription
Step 1: Check your eligibility
Before you get a GLP-1, you first need to know why you want one. Do you want to lose weight? Do you need blood sugar support? Are there other metabolic health issues that a GLP-1 may help with?
If your BMI is below 27 or you’re wanting to try a GLP-1 for aesthetic reasons, you likely will not qualify for a GLP-1 and will be recommended alternative options.
Step 2: Meet with a licensed medical provider
A consultation with a medical provider, either in person or online, is also required. A typical consultation includes a health history review, BMI calculation, and screening for contraindications, which includes pregnancy and breastfeeding, prior pancreatitis, gallbladder disease symptoms, severe reflux symptoms, and personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2. In addition, individuals with type 2 diabetes or who are on insulin or sulfonylureas will need individualized dosing plans to avoid hypoglycemia.
Knowing what to ask your provider before starting a GLP-1 ensures you are prepared and can help you get the most out of your consultation.
Legitimate GLP-1 prescriptions always involve a medical evaluation, so steer clear of any person or company claiming to be able to get you a GLP-1 without provider support.
Step 3: Complete any required lab work or health screening
Your provider may recommend lab testing before approving a prescription. This may include testing for glucose levels, blood pressure, cholesterol, or thyroid function (this is not a comprehensive list).
Not all patients will need lab work done. Medical oversight is essential for safety, so be sure to follow your provider’s recommendations.
Step 4: Receive your prescription and treatment plan
Once you’ve been cleared for treatment and prescribed a GLP-1, the next step is to make sure you understand how dosing works. You will start at a low dose and gradually increase to your maximum dose. This timeline will be determined by your provider and may be adjusted as you go, depending on how your body responds to medication.
Regular follow-ups with your provider are essential, especially after dose increases. Keep track of your progress (the Pivot GLP-1 companion app is great for this!) and consider working with a Health Coach to build a lifestyle plan that will help maximize the results of your medication.
What about microdosing?
If your BMI is lower than 27 but you want to use a GLP-1 for benefits other than weight loss, you may qualify for a microdosing plan. GLP-1 microdosing also requires a provider prescription to ensure safety and proper dosing.
Can you get a GLP-1 online?
Wait times, scheduling conflicts, extra driving and time out of your day—we get it; going to the doctor doesn’t always feel like time well spent. The good news is that you can get a GLP-1 online, as long as you do your due diligence.
First, your prescription must come from a legitimate provider. Telehealth services can legally prescribe GLP-1 medications through licensed clinicians, providing the same level of care you would get at a medical clinic.
Second, be wary of unsafe or unregulated providers. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Legitimate telehealth providers require a medical consultation. A responsible provider will ask for your full medical history, may require lab work, and will schedule regular follow-ups. If you’re not speaking with a licensed clinician who is genuinely reviewing your health before prescribing, the process isn’t medically sound.
- Medication sourcing matters, too. A legitimate service will be transparent about where their medications actually come from, including which pharmacy fulfills your prescription. If a company can’t clearly explain where their medications come from or why they’re recommending a specific option, keep looking. (See Shed’s compounded medications and pharmacy partners here.)
- Ongoing support is non-negotiable. Getting a prescription is just the beginning. GLP-1 treatment requires continuous monitoring. Providers who disappear after the initial prescription or offer no clear way to reach a medical professional aren’t giving you healthcare—they’re making transactions.
And third, remember that GLP-1s cannot be purchased over the counter and should never be sourced without a valid prescription.
At Shed, every step of the process is built around genuine medical oversight. From initial consultation with a licensed provider to ongoing check-ins as your treatment progresses, the focus is on your long-term health, not just getting a prescription out the door.
How much does a GLP-1 cost?
Many factors influence the cost of GLP-1s, including insurance coverage, medication type, and treatment duration.
Insurance coverage is limited, especially for weight loss. While most insurance plans cover GLP-1s for diabetes treatment, coverage for weight management is much less common. Always check with your insurance plan and make sure your provider documents medical necessity clearly.
Expect prior authorization. Most insurers require your provider to submit documentation before they’ll approve coverage, which adds time to the approval process.
If insurance coverage isn’t an option, look for transparent pricing. Brand-name GLP-1s can cost over $1,000 per month, which is why it’s important to work with a provider who is upfront about cost. Compounded alternatives may also be available depending on your situation.* At Shed, pricing is clear from day 1 so there are no surprises.
Related: The real ROI of GLP-1s: A breakdown for your wallet and your health
What to expect after starting a GLP-1
Knowing what’s normal in the early weeks makes the whole experience go more smoothly. Here’s a realistic picture of what your GLP-1 journey may look like:
- Appetite changes before the scale does. Many people notice appetite changes within the first few days, but meaningful weight loss takes longer. The early weeks are about your body adjusting—to both the medication and new eating habits—with weight loss happening slowly but steadily.
- Side effects are possible, but are usually mild and temporary. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. They are most noticeable at the start of treatment and after each dose increase, but tend to improve with time. A full breakdown of what to expect—and how to handle it—is available in Shed’s guide to common GLP-1 side effects.
- Lifestyle habits still matter, especially if you want long-term results. GLP-1s help reduce hunger, but they don’t replace healthy habits. Staying hydrated, moving regularly, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fiber and protein, and eating smaller meals all help manage side effects and can amplify your results.
Behavioral support can help you get the most from your GLP-1 treatment. Shed’s Health Coaching program is designed to help you build a foundation you can rely on and create habits that actually work with your body and lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a prescription to get a GLP-1?
Yes. GLP-1 medications require a prescription from a licensed medical provider. These medications affect hormones that regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar, which means they must be prescribed and monitored by a clinician.
Can you get a GLP-1 online?
Yes, you can get a GLP-1 online through legitimate telehealth platforms that connect you with a licensed medical provider. These services still require a medical intake, health history review, and provider approval before a prescription is issued. Getting a GLP-1 online does not bypass medical oversight; it simply allows the evaluation and prescribing process to happen remotely.
How long does it take to get approved for a GLP-1?
Approval timelines vary depending on the provider, where you live, whether lab work is required, and whether insurance authorization is involved. In many telehealth settings, approval can happen within a few days once your intake is complete and reviewed by a clinician, but it can take longer. Insurance-based prescriptions in particular often take longer due to prior authorization requirements.
Do you need insurance to get a GLP-1?
No, insurance is not required to get a GLP-1 prescription, but having coverage may reduce your out-of-pocket cost. Some people choose self-pay options through telehealth providers if their insurance does not cover GLP-1 medications. A licensed provider can help explain pricing options and determine what makes the most sense for your situation.
How much weight can you lose on a GLP-1?
Weight loss results vary based on the individual, dosage, lifestyle factors, and how consistently you use the medication. Many people experience gradual, sustained weight loss over several months rather than rapid changes in the first few weeks. GLP-1s are most effective if you pair them with supportive nutrition, movement, and ongoing medical guidance.
What are the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications?
The most common side effects include nausea, reduced appetite, digestive discomfort, and changes in bowel habits, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. These effects often improve over time as the body adjusts. Working closely with a provider and following proper dose titration can help minimize side effects.
Is it safe to take a GLP-1 long term?
For many patients, GLP-1 medications are considered safe for long-term use when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider. Ongoing check-ins allow clinicians to assess effectiveness, manage side effects, and adjust treatment as needed. Long-term use decisions should always be made in partnership with a licensed medical professional.
What happens if you stop taking a GLP-1?
Stopping a GLP-1 may lead to a return of appetite and potential weight regain if you don’t maintain lifestyle changes. This is why providers often emphasize building sustainable habits alongside medication use. If you want to stop or taper a GLP-1, you should talk about it with your provider to do it safely.
*Compounded medications are prepared by licensed pharmacies to meet individual patient needs. While they are not reviewed or approved by the FDA for safety or effectiveness, they are made in accordance with strict regulatory guidelines. Prescription is only available after consultation with a licensed provider to determine if treatment is appropriate.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic® and Wegovy®, are prescription treatments that should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider. Individual results may vary, and weight management outcomes depend on many factors, including medical history, lifestyle, and adherence to treatment.
Statements regarding weight loss, weight regain, or treatment outcomes are based on available research and may not apply to all individuals. Any decisions about starting, stopping, or continuing medication should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.
Shed is a telehealth platform that connects patients with licensed providers. A prescription is issued only if a provider determines it is appropriate.
