GLP-1 is a medication used to help with weight management and blood sugar control. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate appetite and insulin levels. GLP-1 is FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes and, at higher doses, for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions. It works by reducing hunger, slowing digestion, and improving blood sugar control.

GLP-1 aids in weight loss by reducing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness. It mimics GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), a hormone naturally produced by the gut when you eat. GLP-1 helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels in the body.

GLP-1 is generally safe when used correctly with guidance from a healthcare provider. However, like any medication, it can have side effects. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, which are usually mild and temporary. In rare cases, more serious side effects like pancreatitis or kidney problems may occur.

It’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of GLP-1 with your healthcare provider and report any side effects or concerns promptly.

EllieMD’s weight loss medication must be refrigerated. Please refrigerate it promptly upon receiving the medication.

• You need to be at least 18 years old.
• You must reside in one of the states where our services are available or be physically present there.It’s important to demonstrate the necessity for medical treatment. If requested by your healthcare provider, our team can assist you in obtaining recent lab results.
• You must meet the FDA-approved criteria for these medications. This means having a body mass index (BMI) above 30 for individuals with obesity, or a BMI above 27 with a qualifying health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.
• You should not have certain medical conditions, including type 1 diabetes, a history of chronic pancreatitis or pancreatitis caused by weight loss medications (GLP-1), severe gastrointestinal (GI) disease, current gallbladder problems (except for previous gallbladder removal), retinal impairment/diabetic retinopathy, recent bariatric surgery, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN-2), or a history of medullary thyroid cancer.
• You should not be pregnant or nursing.

Your healthcare provider affiliated with EllieMD will make the final decision regarding your eligibility for the weight loss program and may request additional information directly from you.

GLP-1/GIP / GLP-1 may not be suitable for everyone.

The following conditions can prevent the use of GLP-1: 

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, 
• current use of another GLP-1 receptor agonist, 
• diabetic ketoacidosis, 
• known hypersensitivity to GLP-1 + B12 or any of its injection components, 
• recent bariatric surgery within the last 6 months, and pregnancy.

Additionally, it is important to inform your doctor if you have or have had a stomach or intestinal disorder, pancreatitis, kidney disease, or diabetes-induced eye problems.