As GLP-1 medications have become more widely discussed, one question continues to come up.
“Are they safe?”
It’s an important question, and one that deserves a thoughtful answer.
Like any prescription medication, GLP-1 treatments have potential benefits and potential risks, which is why they should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider.
At Pro Health, patient safety always comes before choosing a treatment plan.
Every Patient Is Different
Medical weight loss should never begin with a prescription alone.
It begins with understanding the patient.
Your medical history, current health, medications, laboratory results, and weight loss goals all play an important role in determining whether GLP-1 treatment may be appropriate.
That’s why every patient at Pro Health begins with a $75 consultation, which includes laboratory testing and a comprehensive evaluation with an experienced nurse practitioner before treatment recommendations are made.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Many adults who have struggled to lose weight despite healthy lifestyle changes may benefit from medically supervised weight loss.
For some patients, GLP-1 medications—including semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, and tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®—may become one option among several available treatments.
Others may be better candidates for alternative approaches depending on their health history, current medications, laboratory results, and provider recommendations.
The goal is to identify the treatment plan that is both appropriate and safe for the individual.
Why Medical Supervision Matters
Patients often ask whether they should simply order medication online.
While convenience is appealing, there is significant value in working with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your health, answer questions, and monitor your progress throughout treatment.
Like all prescription medications, GLP-1 treatments may cause side effects. Many patients experience mild symptoms that improve as their bodies adjust to treatment, while other symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider promptly. Knowing the difference is an important part of safe, medically supervised weight loss.
To learn more about common GLP-1 side effects, when they’re expected, and when you should contact your provider, read our article, GLP-1 Side Effects: What Memphis Patients Should Know.
At Pro Health, patients return approximately every 30 days for follow-up appointments so treatment can be reviewed and adjusted if needed.
These ongoing visits allow your provider to monitor your progress, answer questions, discuss any side effects you may be experiencing, and make personalized adjustments based on how you’re responding to treatment.
This ongoing care helps patients continue moving toward their goals safely and confidently.
Making an Informed Decision
The decision to begin any medical weight loss program should be made together with a qualified healthcare provider.
At Pro Health, experienced nurse practitioners take the time to discuss your options, explain potential benefits and considerations, and answer your questions before treatment begins.
Whether a GLP-1 medication or another medically supervised treatment is recommended, our goal is to help you make an informed decision with confidence.
With five convenient Memphis-area clinics, Pro Health provides personalized medical weight loss care and ongoing support close to home, so you always have a local healthcare team to guide you throughout your journey.
Important Disclosure
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®.
Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide are compounded drug products that have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality; and have not been demonstrated to the FDA to be safe or effective for their intended use. The manufacturing processes used to produce compounded medications have not been reviewed by the FDA. FDA-approved products containing semaglutide and tirzepatide are available. Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company.