Getting a prescription for GLP-1 medications online is now straightforward thanks to telehealth. The entire process typically takes 24-72 hours from signup to medication shipment. Here's exactly what to expect.
Before You Start: Eligibility Requirements
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription medications indicated for weight management. To qualify, you typically need to meet specific BMI criteria:
Standard Eligibility Criteria:
- BMI ≥30: Obesity – qualifies without additional conditions
- BMI ≥27: Overweight – qualifies with at least one weight-related condition such as:
- • Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- • High blood pressure (hypertension)
- • High cholesterol (dyslipidemia)
- • Obstructive sleep apnea
- • Cardiovascular disease
Not sure about your BMI? You can calculate it by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. Or simply Google "BMI calculator" and enter your height and weight.
Step 1: Choose a Telehealth Provider
The first step is selecting a telehealth provider that offers GLP-1 medications and serves your state. When evaluating providers, consider:
- Pricing transparency: Can you see the full cost before the consultation?
- Medication type: Compounded vs. brand-name, injectable vs. oral options
- Pharmacy credentials: 503A or 503B facility, LegitScript certified
- State availability: Not all providers serve all states
- Consultation type: Video, phone, or asynchronous messaging
Our comparison tool can help you filter providers by these criteria to find the best match for your needs.
Step 2: Complete the Health Questionnaire
Every legitimate telehealth provider requires a detailed health questionnaire before prescribing. This isn't just a formality – the information helps the provider determine if GLP-1 therapy is safe and appropriate for you.
Information You'll Need to Provide:
Basic Information
- • Current height and weight
- • Date of birth
- • Gender
- • Contact information
Medical History
- • Current medications
- • Known allergies
- • Chronic conditions
- • Past surgeries
Specific Conditions
- • Thyroid issues (especially MTC)
- • History of pancreatitis
- • Kidney or liver disease
- • Diabetes status
Weight History
- • Previous weight loss attempts
- • Past use of weight-loss meds
- • Weight-loss goals
- • Timeline expectations
Be honest and thorough. Withholding information could put your health at risk or lead to denial of treatment.
Step 3: Provider Consultation
After submitting your questionnaire, a licensed healthcare provider will review your information. The consultation format varies by provider:
Consultation Types:
- Video call: Live face-to-face consultation via video. Allows for real-time questions and discussion. Typically 10-20 minutes.
- Phone call: Voice consultation with a provider. Same interaction as video but without the visual component.
- Asynchronous messaging: The provider reviews your questionnaire and responds via secure messaging. You may exchange several messages over hours or days. More convenient but less interactive.
Some providers offer multiple options; others use only one format. If you prefer real-time interaction, look for providers that offer video or phone consultations.
Questions the Provider May Ask:
- • Why are you interested in GLP-1 therapy?
- • What weight-loss methods have you tried before?
- • Do you have any concerns about injectable medications?
- • Are you currently trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding?
- • What are your weight-loss goals and expectations?
- • Are you comfortable self-injecting?
Step 4: Prescription and Payment
If the provider determines you're a good candidate for GLP-1 therapy, they'll write a prescription and discuss next steps. This typically includes:
- Medication selection: Semaglutide vs. tirzepatide, injectable vs. oral
- Starting dose: Usually the lowest dose, with a titration schedule to increase over time
- Pricing confirmation: Total cost including medication, shipping, and any subscription fees
- Payment processing: Most providers accept credit/debit cards, some accept HSA/FSA
Important: Read Before Paying
Understand the cancellation and refund policy before payment. Some providers require prepaying for multiple months (3-6 month commitments) to get the lowest price. Others offer month-to-month options at slightly higher rates.
Step 5: Medication Delivery
Once your prescription is approved and payment is processed, the medication ships directly to you. Delivery times vary:
- Typical shipping: 3-7 business days
- Expedited options: Some providers offer 2-day shipping for an additional fee
- Cold chain: GLP-1 medications require refrigeration, so they ship with cold packs
Your package will include the medication vial or pen, syringes/needles (if applicable), and instructions for use. Some providers also include alcohol swabs and a sharps container.
Step 6: Ongoing Care and Refills
GLP-1 therapy isn't a one-time prescription. You'll have ongoing touchpoints with your provider:
Monthly Check-ins
Most providers require monthly check-ins to monitor your progress, adjust dosing, and address any side effects. These are typically quick message exchanges or brief calls.
Dose Titration
You'll likely start on the lowest dose and gradually increase over several months. The standard titration schedule for semaglutide is 0.25mg for 4 weeks, then 0.5mg for 4 weeks, continuing to increase until reaching a maintenance dose (typically 1.0-2.4mg).
Automatic Refills
Many providers operate on a subscription model where medication ships automatically each month. Make sure you understand how to pause or cancel if needed.
What If You're Not Approved?
Not everyone qualifies for GLP-1 therapy. Common reasons for denial include:
- • BMI below the eligibility threshold
- • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- • History of pancreatitis
- • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- • Certain medication interactions
If you're denied, the provider should explain why. You may be able to address the issue (such as consulting with your primary care doctor about a concerning medication interaction) and reapply.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- ✓ Have your weight and height ready – You'll need accurate measurements
- ✓ List all current medications – Including supplements and OTC drugs
- ✓ Know your medical history – Especially thyroid and pancreas-related conditions
- ✓ Check your state's availability – Not all providers serve all states
- ✓ Read the fine print – Understand pricing, commitments, and cancellation policies
- ✓ Be patient – The process typically takes 24-72 hours, not minutes
The Bottom Line
Getting a GLP-1 prescription online is a legitimate and increasingly common way to access weight-management medications. The process involves a real medical evaluation by a licensed provider – it's not just filling out a form and receiving pills.
Choose a reputable provider with transparent pricing and verified pharmacy credentials. Be honest in your health questionnaire, and be prepared for ongoing check-ins as part of your treatment.
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