What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like-peptide-1. This naturally occurring hormone works in your intestines to regulate blood sugar levels. Medications that mimic the effects of this hormone are called GLP-1 agonists. These medications make you feel fuller for longer by slowing the movement of food through your gastrointestinal tract. For many patients struggling to control their weight this effect, along with lifestyle modifications, has led to successful weight loss.
FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for weight loss vs FDA-approved GLP-1 medications for type 2 diabetes
Wegovy and Saxenda are FDA-approved weight loss medications. In one study, patients taking Wegovy had an average weight loss of 14.9% after 68 weeks. In the same study, patients who took Saxenda had between 5 and 10% weight loss compared with placebo after 56 weeks.
Other GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic and Mounjaro, are approved to treat type 2 diabetes and can also result in significant weight loss. While they are not FDA approved specifically for weight loss, many health care providers use them for weight loss management. The use of these medications for weight loss is considered to be “off-label”.
In one study, patients taking Wegovy had an average weight loss of 14.9%. In the same study, patients taking Saxenda had between 5-10% weight loss.
Who is eligible for Chesapeake Telemedicine’s GLP-1 program?
It is important for our patients to understand that Chesapeake Telemedicine has strict standards we follow when prescribing GLP-1 agonist medications. Scheduling an appointment and paying a copay is NOT a guarantee that we will prescribe a weight loss medication. During your visit, we will carefully assess your medical history and desired outcomes to determine the GLP-1 that’s best for you. Typically, patients who qualify for treatment have a BMI over 30. In addition, those with a BMI of 27 and at least one weight-related condition may be eligible for GLP-1 agonist medications. Lastly, if available you must provide us with the results of lab work done within the last 6 months. This must include:
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- A CMP – Used to measure metabolic reactions in the body, electrolytes, and liver/kidney function.
- A CBC – Used to determine blood count, immune function, platelet counts, and to screen for anemia.
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If you do not have recent lab work, our evaluation may require completing new lab work to ensure it is safe to use a GLP-1 agonist medication.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of GLP-1 agonist medications?
We cannot determine if your health insurance will pay for your GLP-1 agonist medications. If your health insurance will not cover the cost of your medication, you can still pay for the medication out of pocket. These are new medications with no generic options. Those paying out of pocket should expect to pay approximately ~$1,000 per month.
In general, most GLP-1 agonist medication prescriptions DO require prior authorization for your health insurance to cover the cost. We strongly recommend you call your insurance to find out whether you will need prior authorization. If your health insurance provider does require prior authorization, we encourage you to visit your primary care provider. Chesapeake Telemedicine will NOT contact your insurance to assist in obtaining prior authorization.
How long will my prescription last?
Chesapeake telemedicine will prescribe you a 4-week supply. We recommend frequent month-to-month follow-up visits with us or your primary care provider to facilitate titrating your dosage up to a tolerable level that prioritizes your health over absolute weight loss.
How do I get my GLP-1 agonist prescription from Chesapeake Telemedicine?
Schedule an appointment to see our providers.
Schedule Appointment