Getting started with a GLP-1 program: a step-by-step checklist

Starting a GLP-1 program involves more steps than most telehealth providers advertise. Between choosing a program, completing the medical intake, getting your prescription filled, learning injection technique, and managing the dose-escalation period, there are at least a dozen things to get right. This checklist walks through each stage so nothing catches you off guard.

Step 1: Decide what kind of program you want

Before comparing providers, clarify what matters to you:

• Branded medication only, compounded only, or open to both? This is the single biggest decision affecting cost, safety profile, and regulatory stability.

• Insurance-covered or cash-pay? If you have commercial insurance, check whether your plan covers Wegovy or Zepbound before defaulting to a cash-pay telehealth provider.

• Injectable or oral? If you strongly prefer a pill, your options are oral Wegovy (with a 30-minute fasting requirement) or Foundayo (no food restrictions).

• How much clinical support do you need? Some programs offer messaging-only care; others include weekly coaching, nutrition plans, and lab coordination.

Step 2: Compare providers on GLP-1 Scout

Use the compare page to filter by medication type, price range, and features. For each provider in your shortlist, verify:

• What is the total monthly cost at the maintenance dose — not the starting dose?

• Is the clinician a physician, NP, or PA? Are they licensed in your state?

• How are follow-ups handled — video visits, messaging, or phone?

• What happens if you need to pause, change dose, or stop treatment?

• What is the refund policy if you are not approved after the intake?

Step 3: Prepare for your medical intake

Gather this information before starting the intake questionnaire:

• Complete medication list with dosages (prescription and OTC).

• Medical history summary: cardiovascular disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney disease, eating disorders, mental health conditions.

• Family history: any thyroid cancer (especially medullary) or MEN 2 syndrome.

• Recent lab results if available (within 6-12 months): HbA1c, comprehensive metabolic panel, TSH, lipid panel.

• Your primary care provider's name and contact information.

• Current weight and height (for BMI calculation).

• Pregnancy status or plans.

Step 4: Complete the intake and clinician review

Most telehealth programs take 24-72 hours from intake submission to prescription issuance. During this time, a clinician reviews your information and may ask follow-up questions. Be thorough and honest — omitting conditions like pancreatitis or thyroid cancer history can lead to unsafe prescribing.

Step 5: Receive your medication and learn the basics

If prescribed an injectable GLP-1:

• Verify the medication matches what was prescribed (correct brand, correct dose).

• Check the expiration date and storage instructions — most GLP-1 injectables require refrigeration before first use.

• Learn proper injection technique: subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites.

• Understand the pen or vial system: autoinjector pens are different from vials with syringes. Make sure you know which you received.

• Confirm your first follow-up appointment date.

Step 6: Navigate the dose-escalation period

The first 4-5 months are the dose-escalation period. This is when most side effects occur and when most patients decide whether to continue. Tips for success:

• Start with small, frequent meals to manage nausea. Avoid fatty, greasy, or very sweet foods during escalation.

• Stay hydrated — dehydration from GI side effects can strain the kidneys.

• Report persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or signs of dehydration to your clinician promptly.

• Do not skip dose-escalation steps to "speed up" weight loss. The gradual increase exists specifically to reduce side effect severity.

• Track your weight weekly but expect non-linear progress. Weight loss typically accelerates after reaching the maintenance dose.

Step 7: Plan for the long term

GLP-1 treatment is typically ongoing. Clinical data shows that most patients regain a significant portion of lost weight within 1 year of stopping medication. Plan accordingly:

• Discuss long-term treatment goals with your clinician during the escalation period.

• Understand your total cost at the maintenance dose — this is your steady-state monthly expense.

• Build sustainable nutrition and activity habits alongside medication. The drugs work best as part of a comprehensive lifestyle approach.

• If you plan to stop treatment, work with your prescriber on a tapering strategy rather than stopping abruptly.