If it feels like everyone is talking about GLP-1 medications these days, you’re not imagining it. These drugs have moved off the red carpet and have quickly become some of the most talked-about treatments in weight loss. GLP-1s are helping more people achieve weight loss results that once felt out of reach.

However, navigating the new GLP-1 landscape can be intimidating. High prices and inconsistent insurance coverage can make these medications tough to access. At the same time, rising demand has fueled a rise in counterfeit products and sketchy online sellers. This is exactly why telemedicine subscriptions like GoodRx for Weight Loss exist – to provide a trusted and simple way for users to connect with licensed healthcare professionals and access savings on FDA-approved GLP-1s.

Below, Karla Robinson, MD, a board-certified family physician and senior medical editor at GoodRx, discusses the essentials of what you need to know about these popular weight-loss medications. Plus, why a subscription service can make the process simple and customized to your needs.

Who is a good candidate for GLP-1s?

“GLP-1s are a revolutionary approach to weight management,” says Dr. Robinson. “Unlike weight-loss drugs of the past, they target multiple factors that contribute to obesity.”

These medications aren’t meant for quick or cosmetic weight loss, though. They’re typically prescribed for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher—or 27 and above with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure or prediabetes.

“It’s always best to seek guidance from a trusted healthcare professional,” Dr. Robinson says. “They can evaluate your medical history, review your current medications, and help develop a viable treatment plan.”

If you meet the criteria, your provider will walk you through the process—whether it’s a self-injection pen or pill—adjust dosing over time and monitor your progress.

What do GLP-1s cost?

Cost is one of the biggest barriers for patients. While most major insurers cover GLP-1s for Type 2 diabetes, coverage for weight loss is often limited or excluded from plans, with GoodRx research showing over 16 million Americans with commercial insurance lack coverage for any GLP-1 used for weight management. “Out-of-pocket costs can be several hundreds of dollars a month, which just isn’t sustainable for many people,” says Dr. Robinson.

This reality has pushed some people toward cheaper compounded alternatives online, but that’s a risky move. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings about counterfeit or improperly compounded GLP-1 medications, which may contain incorrect doses or unverified ingredients.

“FDA-approved GLP-1s have gone through rigorous testing for safety, effectiveness, and quality,” Dr. Robinson notes. It’s important to obtain these medications through licensed providers and reputable pharmacies.

How do GLP-1 medications actually work?

GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that’s released after we eat. Prescription versions—such as Wegovy® (semaglutide) and Zepbound® (tirzepatide)—mimic that response to boost insulin production and help curb blood sugar spikes, slow how quickly food moves through the digestive system, and act on areas of the brain that control hunger.

“All of these factors work together to trigger satiety and decrease cravings—what people like to call ‘food noise,’” Dr. Robinson says. In other words, this isn’t just about willpower; it’s about changing the biological signals that drive hunger in the first place.

What side effects can I expect on a GLP-1?

Side effects from GLP-1s can occur especially early on. “Because of how these medications work, gastrointestinal side effects are the most common,” says Dr. Robinson. Think nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and constipation. For many people, symptoms show up in the first few weeks and ease as the body adjusts.

Starting GLP-1s at a low dose and ramping up gradually can help minimize discomfort. If the symptoms feel intense or don’t improve, check in with your provider. Adjusting the dose or making small modifications, such as eating smaller meals or avoiding rich or greasy foods, can help. Any severe or unusual abdominal pain should be evaluated.

Working with a licensed health care provider like the ones available via GoodRx for Weight Loss can provide ongoing support to monitor side effects, give personalized advice, and safely adjust your dosage over time.

Is a pill or injection better?

Both options are effective, so the “better” choice may boil down to lifestyle and personal preferences. Injectable GLP-1s are typically administered just once a week using a prefilled pen, while oral versions are taken on a daily basis. For people who are squeamish about needles of any type, a daily pill can feel like the more approachable option.

Cost, convenience, and medical needs can all factor into the decision, so it’s worth discussing with your provider.

A simpler way to start GLP-1s

If getting to a healthy weight is your intention, or if your doctor has recommended weight management for your health, telemedicine subscriptions like GoodRx for Weight Loss, can reduce the guesswork and make it easy to start and stay on a GLP-1.

For $39/month, you get access to ongoing clinical care from a healthcare team, flexible fulfillment, and clear, upfront self-pay pricing for FDA-approved GLP-1 options, including oral options like the Wegovy® pill and Foundayo™, each starting at $149 per month, and injections, such as Wegovy®, which starts at $199 per month, and the Zepbound® KwikPen®, which starts at $299 per month.

With GoodRx for Weight Loss, you can start your treatment with the confidence that you’re getting personalized care, safe and proven treatment—never compounded alternatives—and no hidden costs.

For many people, the hardest part of starting a GLP-1 isn’t deciding to begin treatment—it’s navigating the process. With the right information and support, reaching your weight loss goals can be easier than ever.

GoodRx is NOT insurance.