Introduction

If you’re considering Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic, or another prescription weight loss medication, one of the most important first steps is having an open conversation with your doctor. But many people feel nervous or unsure about how to bring it up.

This guide will help you feel confident and prepared by walking you through what to say, what to ask, and what your doctor will likely consider before prescribing a GLP-1 medication.

Why the Conversation Matters

GLP-1 medications are powerful, effective tools—but they’re not for everyone. To get a prescription (and potentially insurance coverage), your provider will need to:

• Confirm you meet clinical criteria
• Understand your full health history
• Discuss side effects and expectations
• Document the medical necessity of treatment

This isn’t just about losing weight—it’s about managing a chronic condition like obesity or insulin resistance with the right tools.

1. Prepare Your Talking Points

Write down why you’re considering medication:

• “I’ve tried diet and exercise, but I can’t keep the weight off.”
• “I’ve been diagnosed with prediabetes and want to prevent diabetes.”
• “My cravings and hunger make it hard to stick to a healthy plan.”
• “I have high blood pressure and need to reduce my risk.”

Be honest—your story matters.

2. Know the Criteria Ahead of Time

Most GLP-1 medications (like Wegovy and Zepbound) are approved for people with:

• BMI ≥30, or
• BMI ≥27 with at least one weight-related condition, such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Sleep apnea
  • PCOS
  • Insulin resistance

Use this BMI calculator to check your eligibility before the visit.

3. Ask These Key Questions During the Visit

What medication would you recommend for my goals and health history?
Ask whether Wegovy, Zepbound, Saxenda, or another option is right for you—and why.

How much weight loss should I expect?
Set realistic expectations based on current evidence (Wegovy ~15%, Zepbound ~22.5%).

What are the possible side effects and how can I manage them?
Bring up concerns about nausea, energy, digestion, and what to do if you experience them.

Will my insurance cover this?
Ask if they can help you with prior authorization or appeal a denial.

Mention savings options like:

• Wegovy Savings Card 
• Zepbound Savings Card 

How long will I need to be on this medication?

Ask how long treatment usually lasts and what the long-term plan could look like.

4. Bring Medical Documentation If You Have It

To improve your chances of a prescription and insurance approval, bring:

• A list of medications and diagnoses
• Recent lab results (blood sugar, A1C, blood pressure)
• Records of previous weight loss attempts
• A food or symptom journal, if you’ve tracked one

This can help your provider write a stronger case for medical necessity.

5. Be Honest About Cost and Preferences

Tell your doctor:

• If your insurance plan excludes weight loss medications
• If you’d like to consider off-label options like Ozempic
• Whether you’d prefer oral meds vs injections, or weekly vs daily dosing

Example: “If Wegovy isn’t covered, could we try Ozempic off-label?”

6. What If Your Doctor Says No?

Not every provider is comfortable prescribing GLP-1s, especially if they aren’t familiar with them or your case isn’t well-documented yet.

If this happens:

• Ask for a referral to an obesity medicine specialist
• Explore trusted telehealth services that offer medically supervised prescriptions
• Work on building a stronger case with labs, a food log, or further documentation

Contact us for trusted telehealth services: Resource Center.

Final Thoughts

Talking to your doctor about weight loss medications can feel intimidating, but you’re advocating for your health—and that’s always the right move. Come prepared, ask thoughtful questions, and be open to your provider’s guidance.

Bring your goals, medical history, and concerns
Ask about side effects, costs, and alternatives
Work as a team to create a long-term, sustainable plan

For up-to-date pricing visit our Main Page.