Overview
What is medical weight loss?
Image — wellness or member consultation photography
Medical weight loss refers to healthcare-guided approaches that may include nutrition, movement, behavior change, sleep improvement, counseling, and prescription medications. GLP-1 medications are among the most widely discussed prescription options today — and you don't need a diabetes diagnosis to explore whether they're right for you.
Who this guide is for
PEHP members who are curious about GLP-1 medications and want clear, unbiased information before talking to a provider or making a decision.
How to use this resource
Read through at your own pace, jump to any section using the left navigation, or go straight to the Q&A for quick answers to common questions.
Prescription options available
Options include GLP-1 medications, older appetite-suppressing medications, combination therapies, and compounded formulations — each with different cost and oversight profiles.
Medical supervision matters
All GLP-1 programs require a prescription from a licensed provider. This guide helps you ask the right questions and choose a program with proper oversight.
This guide is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication program.
About GLP-1
What are GLP-1 medications?
Image — medication or clinical graphic
Why are people using GLP-1 medications?
People explore GLP-1 medications for a variety of personal health, wellness, and weight-management reasons — including reducing weight, improving body composition, supporting long-term health goals, and managing appetite or cravings. Medical research has shown GLP-1s to be an effective tool for weight loss. They have also been shown to help with joint pain, sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease, among other conditions.
What results could I expect?
Results vary widely depending on the individual, dosage, nutrition, activity level, and consistency. Individuals report reduced appetite, gradual weight reduction, improved mobility, and improved metabolic health. Clinical trials for semaglutide showed an average body weight reduction of approximately 15% over 68 weeks. Keep in mind: weight regain may occur after stopping medication, and muscle mass can be lost alongside fat loss without changes in habits.
How can lifestyle support my results?
Medical weight loss medications are most effective when combined with long-term lifestyle habits, including a balanced diet, adequate protein intake, exercise and movement, strength training, sleep, and stress management. Medication works best as part of a broader health strategy, not as a standalone solution.
Who should not take GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications may not be appropriate for people with certain thyroid cancers, MEN2, a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disease, pregnancy, or certain eating disorders. Consult your healthcare provider before starting.
Common side effects
Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, reduced appetite, fatigue, dehydration, and loss of muscle mass alongside weight loss. Side effects vary by individual and by which GLP-1 medication is prescribed.
Common questions
Your questions, answered
These are the questions most people ask before deciding whether to explore GLP-1 medications. Click any question to expand the answer.
Do I need a diabetes diagnosis to use GLP-1 for weight loss?
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No. While GLP-1 medications were originally developed for Type 2 diabetes, the FDA has approved specific formulations — including Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) — specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. You do not need a diabetes diagnosis to be prescribed a GLP-1 for weight loss, though a licensed provider must evaluate your eligibility based on your health history.
What does PEHP cover — and what would I pay out of pocket?
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PEHP covers GLP-1 medications for members with a confirmed Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Coverage for weight loss use is not included for most members — meaning you would pay out of pocket. Brand-name medications like Wegovy or Zepbound can run $900–$1,300 per month at retail. However, through telehealth providers that partner with accredited compound pharmacies, members can often access medically supervised GLP-1 programs for significantly less. The comparison tables in this guide walk through those options side by side.
What results can I realistically expect?
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Results vary widely based on your starting weight, dosage, diet, activity level, and consistency. Clinical trials for semaglutide showed an average body weight reduction of approximately 15% over 68 weeks. Tirzepatide trials showed up to 20–22% in some participants. Most people report reduced appetite within the first few weeks, with meaningful weight reduction becoming visible over 12–16 weeks. It is important to pair medication with sustainable lifestyle changes, as weight regain is common after stopping.
What are the most common side effects?
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The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. These are most common when starting the medication or increasing dosage and typically lessen over time. Starting at a low dose and increasing gradually (titration) reduces these effects significantly. Less common but more serious side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and changes in heart rate. Your provider will review your full health history before prescribing to assess your risk.
Who should not take GLP-1 medications?
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GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for everyone. They are generally not recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). They are also not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. People with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal conditions, or certain eating disorders should discuss risks carefully with their provider. Always share your full health history before starting any new medication.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before starting?
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Before starting a GLP-1 program, discuss your full medical history — including any history of thyroid disease, pancreatitis, kidney conditions, eating disorders, or mental health concerns. Ask which medication and starting dosage is right for your situation, what a realistic titration schedule looks like, what lab work or monitoring will be required, and how the medication interacts with anything you currently take. If using a telehealth provider, confirm that a licensed clinician is personally reviewing your case, not just an automated intake form.
How do I find a provider I can trust?
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Start with your primary care provider — they know your health history and can prescribe GLP-1 medications if appropriate. If your PCP does not prescribe them, look for telehealth platforms that include a licensed clinician review (not just an automated intake). Key things to verify: Is a licensed MD, NP, or PA personally reviewing your case? Do they offer ongoing monitoring and dose adjustments? Is their partner pharmacy accredited? Avoid platforms that ship medication without a proper clinical consultation.
What happens if I stop taking GLP-1 medication?
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Research shows that most people regain a significant portion of lost weight after stopping GLP-1 medications — often within 12 months. This is because the medication is addressing a biological mechanism that regulates appetite and metabolism. This does not mean GLP-1s should not be used, but it is an important consideration when evaluating long-term commitment and cost. Ask your provider about a long-term maintenance plan, and consider pairing medication with durable lifestyle habits to reduce regain risk.
How do nutrition and fitness support my GLP-1 results?
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GLP-1 medications are most effective when combined with long-term lifestyle habits. A balanced diet with adequate protein helps preserve muscle mass during weight loss. Regular movement and strength training improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of muscle loss alongside fat loss. Quality sleep and stress management support hormonal balance and reduce cravings. Think of the medication as the foundation — lifestyle habits are what make results sustainable.
What are compounding pharmacies and are they safe?
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Compounding pharmacies produce customized formulations of medications — including semaglutide and tirzepatide — that can significantly reduce cost compared to brand-name versions. When properly accredited, they are a legitimate and widely used option. The key is verification: only consider compounding pharmacies that are state-regulated, USP-compliant, cGMP-adherent, and either 503A-designated or operated within a 50-state network of licensed clinicians. Ask for documentation before ordering. OrderlyMeds, a PEHP partner, meets these standards and offers a 10% member discount.
Choosing a program
What to look for before you decide
Image — provider consultation or decision-making photography
Not all GLP-1 programs are equal. Before you commit, use these questions and standards to evaluate any program — telehealth, PCP, or compound pharmacy.
Questions to ask before choosing a medical weight loss program
- What is the total monthly cost, including medication and fees?
- Is the program insurance-based or cash-pay?
- What medical evaluation, monitoring, and side-effect management are included?
- Does the program provide nutrition, exercise, or behavioral support?
- What results are realistic, and how is progress measured?
- What happens if you stop treatment or leave the program?
Understanding compounding pharmacies
For self-pay members evaluating a GLP-1 program, clinical quality, regulatory compliance, and pharmacy integrity are essential. Compounding pharmacies may offer lower prices, but it is important to purchase from one that meets rigorous standards.
Only consider suppliers that operate with all of the following:
State-regulated pharmacies
50-state network of licensed clinicians
USP-compliant
503A designated facilities
cGMP-adherent
Transparent, all-in pricing
Accredited compounding pharmacies offer transparent pricing — no upsells or subscription traps — and fast fulfillment: typically 24–48 hours after approval, with delivery in 5–7 days.
★
PEHP member exclusive — OrderlyMeds
PEHP members have access to a special offer through OrderlyMeds, an accredited compounding pharmacy with licensed clinical oversight included, transparent all-in pricing, and fast fulfillment. OrderlyMeds meets all the standards listed above.
PEHP members receive a 10% discount. Scan the QR code on your member flyer or use the link below to claim your rate.
Claim your PEHP member offer →
PEHP members receive a 10% discount. Scan the QR code on your member flyer or use the link below to claim your rate.
Red flags to avoid
No licensed clinician review before prescribing. No ongoing monitoring or dose adjustments. No verifiable pharmacy accreditation. Pressure to commit upfront or hidden fees after signup.
Plan for the long term
Ask every provider about a maintenance plan before you start. What happens at month 6? Month 12? What support is included if you want to taper off? The best programs plan beyond the prescription.
Comparing options
Programs at a glance
These tables compare commonly discussed pathways for obtaining GLP-1 medications. This is not a comprehensive list, and it is not an endorsement of any specific provider. Programs, pricing, medication availability, dosages, and regulatory status may change over time — always verify directly with the provider.
Semaglutide — provider comparison
| Semaglutide | OrderlyMeds | Novo Nordisk (Wegovy) | ro | TrumpRX | Walmart | Costco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Compounded | Wegovy (Novo Nordisk) | Wegovy (Novo Nordisk) | Same as ro |
| Delivery | Injection | Injection | Injection | Injection |
| Price per month | $134 | $349 | $399 | $349 |
| Dosage | All doses | .25–2.4 mg | .25–2.4 mg | .25–2.4 mg |
| Startup discounts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 12 months of medication | $1,609 | $4,188 | $4,788 | $4,188 |
| Membership fee | $0 | $0 | $74/month annual commitment | $0 |
| Telehealth visit included Typically 100+ visits | Yes | No | Yes with $74 membership | No |
Tirzepatide — provider comparison
| Tirzepatide | OrderlyMeds | Lilly Direct (Zepbound) | ro | TrumpRX | Walmart | Costco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Compounded | Zepbound (Eli Lilly) | Zepbound (Eli Lilly) | Zepbound (Eli Lilly) |
| Delivery | Injection | Injection | Injection | Injection |
| Price per month | $299 | $449 | $449 | $449 |
| Dosage | All doses | 7.5–15 mg | 7.5–15 mg | 7.5–15 mg |
| Startup discounts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 12 months of medication | $3,588 | $5,388 | $6,276 | $5,388 |
| Membership fee | $0 | $0 | $74/month annual commitment | $0 |
| Telehealth visit included Typically 100+ visits | Yes | No | Yes with $74 membership | No |
Benefits included in price — all providers
| Benefit | OrderlyMeds | Lilly Direct | ro | TrumpRX | Walmart | Costco |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pay with HSA/FSA | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Prescription issue support | Yes | No | No | No |
| Shipping included | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Price same over all dosages | Yes | No | No | No |
| Ongoing support | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Online community & education | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Access to dietitians & nutritionists | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Discounts on behavioral health, meals & other support | Yes | No | No | No |
Note: Programs, pricing, medication availability, dosages, and regulatory status may change over time. Always verify current details directly with each provider before enrolling. Some options above include a telehealth qualification visit with a licensed healthcare provider — confirm this is included before purchasing.
This resource is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication program. PEHP coverage details are subject to change — contact your benefits administrator to confirm your specific plan coverage. Provider pricing and program details are current as of publication and may change without notice.