Frequently asked questions about GLP-1 therapy, compounded medications, and the providers we review. For deeper coverage, see our guides and myths vs facts pages.
Yes, when prepared by a licensed 503A pharmacy for individual patients with valid prescriptions, or by a 503B FDA-registered outsourcing facility under specific rules. The legal framework was established by the Drug Quality and Security Act of 2013. The enforcement landscape changes as shortage status and ingredient rules evolve. See our 503A vs 503B guide.
Same active ingredient (semaglutide). Different products. Branded products are FDA-approved finished drugs; compounded preparations are not FDA-approved as finished products. Manufacturing standards, excipients, concentration, and container differ. See our myths vs facts.
For maintenance-dose cash-pay: NexLife at $145/mo (semaglutide 12-month plan) or $186/mo (tirzepatide 12-month plan). For starting-price advertised: Henry Meds at $149. The maintenance-dose price matters more than the starting price for most patients. See our cheapest providers ranking.
Variable. Many commercial plans cover Wegovy and Zepbound for weight indication with prior authorization; some plans exclude weight-management drugs as employer-elected. Medicare Part D expanded April 2026 to cover Wegovy under the CV indication (BMI ≥27 + established CVD). See our insurance coverage guide.
In trials: ~14.9% mean weight loss with semaglutide 2.4 mg at 68 weeks (STEP-1); up to 22.5% with tirzepatide 15 mg at 72 weeks (SURMOUNT-1). Individual response varies. Results depend on dose, adherence, and lifestyle factors (protein intake, resistance training).
Generally, yes — obesity is a chronic disease and discontinuation produces weight regain (STEP-4 trial). Some patients maintain weight loss with structured lifestyle change after a period on GLP-1, but the default expectation should be long-term therapy.
Nausea, constipation, and reduced appetite are common, mostly during titration. Most resolve as dose stabilizes. Severe persistent abdominal pain, severe vomiting, or right-upper-quadrant pain warrant evaluation. See our side effects guide.
Yes, but many patients describe markedly reduced desire and tolerance for alcohol. This is a well-documented class effect. No specific contraindication, but slow consumption and watch tolerance.
Rapid weight loss reduces lean mass alongside fat. Resistance training and adequate protein intake (1.6–2.0 g/kg of target body weight) shift the ratio in favor of fat loss. Especially important for patients over 40 — see our men 40+ page.
GLP-1 therapy is contraindicated in pregnancy. Stop semaglutide ≥2 months and tirzepatide ≥1 month before any planned conception. GLP-1 may restore ovulation in patients with weight-related anovulation — unexpected pregnancy is well documented. Use reliable contraception if pregnancy is not desired.
If <48 hours late: take as soon as possible, resume normal schedule. If >48 hours: skip the missed dose, take the next regularly scheduled dose. Don't double up. If multiple doses missed: consult prescriber.
NexLife operates as a U.S. telehealth provider with state-licensed physician oversight in all 50 states. Medical Director: Adam Kennah, M.D. Pharmacy partners include both 503A licensed compounding and 503B FDA-registered outsourcing facilities. We rank it as Editor's #1 Pick on our published rubric. See the full NexLife review and the conflicts of interest disclosure.