What is medically-assisted weight loss?

Medically-assisted weight loss is essentially a weight-loss program specifically tailored to the patient; combining lifestyle changes (nutrition, exercise, stress-reduction) with prescription medication to accelerate or jump-start the weight loss process. 

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Do you take insurance?

No. Obtaining these medications through insurance is not only difficult, but if pre-authorization fails, you could be looking at $1700 per month out of pocket! We obtain the "generic" versions of brand name medications such as Wegovy, Ozempic or Mounjaro. The medications we prescribe are called Semaglutide (Ozempic) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). We bypass the insurance process and order these medications through a high-quality compounding pharmacy that brings costs down significantly and makes this an affordable option for medically-assisted weight loss. 

 

How long is the program?

This program will be cultivated to meet the needs of each patient and may vary in length. A typical program length is three to six months, but may continue longer if necessary.

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Am I a candidate?

A good candidate for medically-assisted weight loss would be an otherwise healthy individual who has a BMI >30 or a BMI >27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as high-blood pressure or high cholesterol. If you meet these criteria and you feel as though you have "tried it all" when it comes to weight loss, adding medication to enhance this process may be indicated. If you're not sure if you meet the criteria, book a consultation to learn more and determine if you would be a good candidate for medically-assisted weight loss. 

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If I taper off the medication, will I gain all the weight back?

The most difficult part of the weight loss journey will inevitably be, keeping the weight off. It is therefore essential that we create a customized plan that is sustainable to ensure you can do this. It is critical to understand that although a medically-assisted weight loss program can help boost weight loss, you MUST adjust your lifestyle choices for the long-term to increase your odds of success. 

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Do I need to come in weekly for an injection?

Not at all! If we agree at your initial consult to start an injectable medication such as Semaglutide or Terzepatide (Mounjaro), we will provide you with the necessary education on how to inject yourself weekly. This would be similar to teaching a newly-diagnosed diabetic how to administer their insulin shots. You will also be given all of the necessary supplies to properly inject the medication, as well as customized meal plans and exercise recommendations. After the medication has been prescribed, it will be sent from the pharmacy directly to your home. You will then administer your own shots weekly and perform check-in's with the provider weekly and eventually, monthly. 

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Is it safe?

Medically-assisted weight loss programs are considered very safe. This is due to the ongoing monitoring, coaching, and supervision by the prescribing provider through the duration of the program. At your initial consult, you will be given a full explanation of potential risks and side effects for any new medication you may be prescribed. We will additionally perform comprehensive lab-work at your consult and discuss the need for monitoring these values. You will have the chance to ask questions and we will make sure that you feel fully comfortable prior to starting the program.