GLP-1 telehealth guide
GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide are powerful tools for treating obesity and metabolic disease. Telehealth programmes make access easier, but each provider follows its own clinical playbook.
Use this guide to understand how remote prescribing works, what questions to ask, and how to choose the level of support that matches your goals.
How GLP-1 prescribing works online
Reputable telehealth clinics follow the same medical standards as in-person obesity medicine practices. Expect a multi-step intake before medication is shipped.
- Secure intake questionnaire covering weight history, medications, and health goals
- Baseline measurements such as BMI, blood pressure, and recent lab results
- Video consultation with a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant
- Medication plan outlining starting dose, escalation cadence, and follow-up schedule
Leading programmes align with theObesity Medicine Association clinical algorithm, emphasising lifestyle change alongside pharmacotherapy.
Required labs and screenings
Most clinicians require recent A1C, lipid panels, and liver function tests. Some include pregnancy tests or ECGs depending on your history.
If you do not have current lab work, programmes often ship at-home kits or refer you to a partner lab. Clarify whether these costs are included in the membership fee.
Choosing the right programme
Every telehealth provider balances clinical oversight, medication sourcing, and behaviour change differently. Use these pillars to evaluate your options.
Clinical oversight
Look for programmes led by board-certified obesity medicine physicians or endocrinologists. Ask how frequently you will meet the prescriber and how side effects are triaged.
- Who approves dose escalations and how quickly?
- Is there 24/7 access for urgent questions?
- Do they coordinate with your primary care provider?
Medication access
Programmes source medications through brand-name pharmacies, compounded pharmacies, or a mix of both. Confirm which option applies to you and whether shortages may affect delivery times.
Providers with in-house pharmacy concierge teams can monitor backorders and automatically reroute prescriptions when supply tightens.
Coaching and lifestyle support
Medication works best alongside nutrition, movement, and mindset coaching. Review how often you meet with a coach, what tools are included, and whether mental health support is available.
- Weekly or bi-weekly live sessions
- App-based habit tracking and accountability
- Group coaching or peer cohorts
- Licensed therapists for emotional eating support
Monitoring progress and staying safe
Regular monitoring keeps your journey safe and effective. Establish how your care team will track weight trends, metabolic markers, and potential side effects.
- Monthly check-ins to review appetite changes and adverse reactions
- Dose adjustments guided by symptoms, not just the calendar
- Refill reminders and pharmacy updates
- Quarterly lab panels to monitor glucose, kidney, and liver health
GLP-1 therapy is a marathon. Consistent follow-up prevents plateaus and ensures you feel supported throughout the process.
Transitioning to maintenance
Many members eventually move to a lower maintenance dose or discontinue medication. Plan for that moment early so progress becomes sustainable.
Maintenance plans
Ask whether the programme offers dedicated maintenance phases with intensified coaching, nutritional labs, or strength-building tracks.
Some providers taper doses gradually while reinforcing lifestyle habits through weekly accountability sessions.
When to continue medication
GLP-1s manage a chronic condition. If cardiometabolic risk factors remain high, your clinician may recommend continuing therapy long term.
Discuss the plan in advance so you understand the medical rationale and insurance implications. You can revisit current research via thelatest STEP and SURMOUNT trials.
