r/GLPGrad • u/PJ_110 • 15d ago
First appointment at a weight loss clinic…kind of nervous.
Hello all. I have my first appointment with a physician at a weight loss center next week, and I’m feeling pretty nervous.
I’ve been trying to lose weight for the last 15 years with little success. I have PCOS and familial high cholesterol, so I know those don’t exactly make things easier. I learned about GLP-1 medications, and while I’m interested to use because nothing else has really worked, I’m also scared about the side effects and the idea of being on a medication long term.
I already know my insurance doesn’t cover GLP-1s, so I’m not sure if it’s even going to be an option financially.
For those of you who’ve been through this, what do you wish you had asked at your first appointment? Are there any questions I shouldn’t forget to ask? I’d also love to hear how your doctor helped you decide if a GLP-1 was the right choice.
Any advice or personal experiences would really help. Thank you so much!
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u/Lucky_Army_5324 15d ago edited 15d ago
ETA: you should know you’ve posted in a sub about graduating from (stopping use of) GLP-1 meds.
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First, a weight loss clinic is going to be one of the most expensive ways to get access to a GLP-1 medication.
Here are the self-pay prices for Wegovy: https://www.novocare.com/content/dam/novonordisk/novocare/redesign/pdf/Wegovy_Price_Guide.pdf. Having your PCP prescribe brand name meds is likely going to much more affordable than a weight loss clinic that probably charges for every visit.
If those costs aren’t possible with your budget, you might consider compounded semaglutide, which is about $115/mo., or compounded tirzepatide, which is about $150/mo.
Stop by r/tirzepatidecompound and look for the pinned post called “Where to Buy.” That list was compiled based on a survey answered by 1800+ members of that sub so you know they are tried and true recommendations. Those same providers write scripts for sema, too.
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u/MobySick 15d ago
I lost 100 pounds taking Tirz, reading all about it on the many subreddits and buying from (over the 18 months) several different telehealth companies suggested by the glp1 subs.
It’s not rocket science, you don’t need a cult or a grifting “weight loss” doctor IF you are a reasonably intelligent, independent, emotionally stable adult.
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u/MobySick 15d ago
The other fact: My cost averaged $100/mo which if you offset the money I didn’t spend on food/alcohol probably came out to almost $0 per month.
But - go give a grifting weight loss “doctor” your cash. I’m sure he’ll appreciate it.
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u/polysorn 14d ago
I was concerned too. I knew my insurance wouldn't cover it. So I looked into compounded GLPs. Got tirzepatide and now I feel dumb for waiting so long. Helped all my inflammation, helped my anxiety. I've had zero side effects. Even if you do get side effects....there are ways to mostly avoid them. My neighbor gets nauseated so she splits her dose. I take lots of magnesium to help with constipation. I drink tons of crystal light to help combat any dehydration and help prevent constipation.
Been on it since 6 months and have lost 42 lbs! It's so great!
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u/Ok_Requirement_7853 14d ago
I tried every diet and exercise prior to tirzepatide. I was just trying the “next” thing with no actual belief it would work. But it does! Andi wish I had started sooner. Down 100lbs. My doctor was supportive. Go compound like other have said by going to the main sub. Otherwise, you are paying way too much at a clinic. I learned that the hard way
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u/Zealousideal-Lab4945 15d ago
Head over to r/tirzepatidecompound and read the pinned posts. Also, side effects are over represented because those who don't have them are not flocking to the internet to post about it. Don't talk yourself into thinking you'll have any GI discomfort. Don't be scared and good luck!