GLP (glucagon-like peptide) receptor agonists are a class of medications that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. These medications work by mimicking the effects of the hormone GLP-1, which is naturally produced in the body to stimulate insulin secretion and suppress appetite. Some examples of GLP receptor agonists include exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon), liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda), semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro). These medications can be administered by injection and may be used in combination with other weight loss medications, such as metformin or a sulfonylurea. It’s important to note that these medications are only available by prescription and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors are a type of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) found on the surface of cells in the pancreas, brain, and gut. When GLP-1 binds to these receptors, it activates a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways that lead to a number of physiological effects.

In the pancreas, GLP-1 binding to its receptors stimulates the secretion of insulin, which helps to lower blood sugar levels. This effect is particularly important in people with type 2 diabetes, as it can improve glucose control and reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood sugar.

In the brain, GLP-1 binding to its receptors can suppress appetite and reduce food intake, which may contribute to weight loss. This effect is thought to be mediated by GLP-1’s ability to inhibit the activity of hypothalamic neurons that promote hunger and to stimulate the activity of neurons that promote satiety.

In the gut, GLP-1 binding to its receptors can slow down the emptying of the stomach, which can also help to reduce food intake and promote weight loss.

GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic the effects of GLP-1 by binding to and activating the GLP-1 receptors. These medications can be used to treat type 2 diabetes and as an adjunct therapy for weight loss.

Many insurance companies cover weight loss medication, but it is dependent on the plan and the individual. We always try to get insurance to cover weight loss medication for our patients. This includes doing a pre-authorization and appealing when necessary. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. If your insurance plan denies coverage for weight loss, you will have two options.

Option 1: get Zepbound from Lilly Direct pharmacy for a self-pay price of $399 or $549 (cost depends on your dose). Follow up visits will use your medical insurance.

Option 2: We will prescribe compounded semaglutide that you will self-pay ($350/month). This fee includes seeing a medical provider monthly to ensure you are on track and address any questions you may have. Compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as name-brand weight loss medication Ozempic and Wegovy. If you are prescribed compounded medication, it will be delivered directly to your home.

Compounded Semaglutide contains the same primary ingredient as its name-brand, FDA approved counterparts (GLP-1 medications Wegovy, Ozempic), but it is made in a compounding lab.

Compound Tirzepatide contains the same primary ingredient as its name-brand, FDA approved counterparts Mounjaro and Zepbound.

The cost of weight loss medication depends on whether or not your insurance plan covers weight loss medication. Many insurance companies cover weight loss medication, but it is dependent on the plan and the individual. We always try to get insurance to cover weight loss medication for our patients. This includes doing a pre-authorization and appealing when necessary. Unfortunately, this is not always possible. If your insurance plan denies coverage for weight loss, you will have two options.

• Option 1: get Zepbound from Lilly Direct pharmacy for a self-pay price of $399 or $549 (cost depends on your dose). Follow up visits will use your medical insurance.

• Option 2: We will prescribe compounded semaglutide that you will self-pay ($350/month). This fee includes seeing a medical provider monthly to ensure you are on track and address any questions you may have. Compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as name-brand weight loss medication Ozempic and Wegovy. If you are prescribed compounded medication, it will be delivered directly to your home.

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