What to Know About GLP-1 Medications and Weight Management Programs

How GLP-1 Treatments Are Changing Lives

GLP-1 treatments are currently  FDA-approved as Ozempic® for only type-2 diabetes and as Wegovy® chronic weight management and may be considered as part of a broader medical weight management strategy.
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The Science Behind GLP-1 Therapy

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone  that is released in the gastrointestinal tract in response to eating. One role of GLP-1 is to prompt the body to produce more insulin, which reduces blood glucose (sugar). GLP-1 in higher amounts also interacts with the parts of the brain that reduce appetite and signal a feeling of fullness.

Initially developed to help manage blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Some versions—such as Wegovy®—are FDA-approved for chronic weight management. These medications work by activating receptors that help slow digestion and influence appetite regulation (Kommu & Whitfield, 2024). Treatment generally begins at 0.25 mg weekly and is titrated over several weeks to improve tolerability.
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Real-World Results with GLP-1 Treatments

In a clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, participants using semaglutide achieved an average weight reduction of 14.9% over 68 weeks, compared to 2.4% in the placebo group (NEJM, 2021). Additional studies have shown similar patterns of weight reduction in eligible patients.

Clinical studies demonstrate that GLP-1 therapies can deliver significant results:

• Average weight reduction of 14.9% over 68 weeks compared to 2.4% in the placebo group (NEJM Study)
  
• 5.9% body weight reduction after three months, increasing to 10.9% by six months
  
• 87.3% of patients achieving at least 5% weight loss within six months
  
  

A recent long-term study published in Nature Medicine found that participants with obesity or overweight who used semaglutide and maintained adherence over four years experienced an average sustained weight reduction of 10.2%, compared to placebo. Individual results may vary and should be discussed with a licensed healthcare provider.
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Why Patients Are Choosing GLP-1 Treatments

GLP-1 medications have gained popularity in medical weight management due to growing awareness, broader access through telehealth platforms, and FDA approval of certain medications like Wegovy®. It is recommended for results to consider GLP-1 treatments as part of a larger health and wellness plan that combines diet and exercise. Eden matches you with a licensed prescriber for a telemedicine consult to determine whether you are a good fit for a medication. Eligibility is not guaranteed.
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Affordable Access

GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic® and Wegovy® may vary in cost without insurance. While the pharmacy determines final medication pricing and may vary, some telehealth-enabled programs that connect patients with licensed providers and accredited pharmacies may offer more accessible pathways to care. Eden helps streamline the process by connecting eligible patients with providers who evaluate appropriate treatment options, including insurance eligibility or alternative affordability support, when available.

(Learn how Eden connects you to care →)
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Personalized Treatment Approaches

Licensed healthcare providers may develop personalized care plans based on individual factors such as:

• Weight management goals
  
• Medical history
  
• Response to treatment over time
  
  

Providers may also recommend supportive measures, such as monitoring vitamin levels, based on individual patient needs. They may suggest combining GLP-1 medications, if prescribed post assessment, with diet and exercise for optimal results. Eden connects patients to licensed providers who tailor treatment plans based on clinical guidelines and each patient’s unique profile.
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Consistent Availability

Telehealth providers may help patients access GLP-1 medications through licensed pharmacies, potentially reducing disruptions caused by retail pharmacy shortages. Eden connects patients to licensed healthcare providers who coordinate prescriptions through state-licensed pharmacies.
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Safety and Regulatory Oversight

FDA-approved GLP-1 medications undergo rigorous testing for safety, quality, and efficacy. Patients should work with licensed healthcare providers and confirm that prescriptions are filled by pharmacies verified through resources like the NABP Safe Pharmacy Database.

Licensed providers are responsible for determining appropriate treatment plans, while pharmacies manage medication preparation and dispensing in accordance with FDA and state regulations.
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How to Start GLP-1 Therapy

The process to begin GLP-1 treatment typically involves:

1. Completing a secure online health assessment
   
2. Meeting with a licensed healthcare provider through a virtual consultation
   
3. Receiving a personalized treatment plan if eligible
   
4. Accessing prescriptions through licensed pharmacies with ongoing provider support

(Start Your Health Assessment with Eden)
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Eligibility Criteria

You may be eligible for GLP-1 therapy if you meet the following criteria:

• A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or higher
  
• A BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or elevated cholesterol
  
  

These guidelines are based on FDA-approved prescribing information. Final eligibility is determined by a licensed healthcare provider.
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Combining GLP-1 Therapy with Lifestyle Changes

Clinical studies show that GLP-1 medications are most effective when combined with healthy lifestyle modifications, such as:

• Reducing daily caloric intake by approximately 500 calories
  
• Participating in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly
  
  

These lifestyle habits, supported by guidance from organizations like the CDC, may contribute to more sustainable weight management outcomes.
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Taking the First Step Toward Sustainable Weight Management

When combined with healthy lifestyle changes and medical supervision, GLP-1 medications may support individuals on their journey toward healthier weight management. 

For those who qualify, working closely with a licensed provider can help enhance results and improve long-term success.
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Disclaimer

You may connect with licensed healthcare providers through Eden. Licensed healthcare providers may deem you to be eligible for prescription drugs based on a personalized assessment. Eligibility is not guaranteed.

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