What to know before you start
GLP-1 treatment is prescription medicine, not a shortcut. Here is an honest look at who it is designed for and what taking it actually feels like — before you spend a minute on the intake.
FDA boxed warning
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide carry a boxed warning: thyroid C-cell tumors observed in animal studies. They are not for use with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2. Tell your clinician right away about severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction — and always share your full health history during intake.
Side effects, managed by your clinician
The most common side effects are digestive — nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and sometimes vomiting or fatigue. They are most likely when you start treatment or move up a dose, and for many people they ease as the body adjusts. You are never left to manage them alone:
- Dosing starts low and increases gradually — never rushed.
- If side effects are disruptive, your clinician can slow your titration, hold or lower your dose, or stop treatment.
- You can message your care team with questions between visits.
Who GLP-1 treatment is designed for
- Adults 18 or older.
- A BMI of 30 or higher — or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or prediabetes.
- Not pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
- No personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2.
Meeting these criteria does not guarantee a prescription — a licensed clinician reviews your full health history and prescribes only if treatment is safe and appropriate for you. If it is not a safe fit, your clinician explains why.
Safety information by treatment
Each medication carries its own warnings, including its FDA boxed warning where one applies.
This is a summary of key warnings, not complete prescribing information. Share your full health history during your evaluation.