If you're considering GLP-1 therapy, this is the order to think about it.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility
BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with comorbidity. Or T2D (no BMI threshold). Indication-specific: Wegovy CV (BMI ≥27 + CVD), Zepbound OSA (BMI ≥30 + moderate-severe OSA).
Step 2: Check insurance
Call member services. Ask: on formulary? what tier? PA criteria? expected copay? See insurance guide.
Step 3: Branded vs compounded
Insurance covers branded at meaningful copay → branded. Otherwise, compare brand self-pay (from $299 a month for Zepbound vials and $349 for Wegovy pens) with compounded programs, which are not FDA-approved. See compounded vs branded.
Step 4: Pick a provider
For cash-pay compounded: our provider directory. Our editor's pick is NexLife (#1, 94/100 on methodology v4.1); it is not the lowest price we track. For insurance-routed: ask your clinician or use Form Health/Calibrate.
Step 5: Complete intake
Honest medical history. Don't omit MTC family history, prior pancreatitis, planned pregnancy, active GI disease. Baseline labs as ordered.
Step 6: Start low and titrate
0.25 mg sema or 2.5 mg tirz. Standard schedule (see dosing guide). Communicate symptoms.
Step 7: Lifestyle support
Protein 1.6–2.0 g/kg target weight. Resistance training 2–3×/wk. Hydration. See lifestyle pairing.
Step 8: Plan long-term
Obesity is chronic. Discontinuation produces regain. See maintenance.