Eligibility Guide
BMI requirements, qualifying conditions, and what might disqualify you — explained clearly so you can talk to your doctor with confidence.
Check Your BMI →Most adults qualify for GLP-1 medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide if they meet one of these criteria:
Classified as obesity — no additional conditions required.
Classified as overweight — with at least one weight-related condition (type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, etc.).
Enter your height and weight to calculate your BMI and see where you fall on the eligibility scale.
If your BMI is between 27 and 29.9, you may still qualify with one of these conditions:
GLP-1s were originally developed for diabetes management.
Hypertension is a common weight-related comorbidity.
Dyslipidemia often improves with GLP-1 therapy.
Obstructive sleep apnea linked to excess weight.
Heart disease risk often improves with weight loss.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is commonly associated with insulin resistance and weight gain.
NAFLD/NASH often improves with GLP-1-assisted weight loss.
Joint pain worsened by excess body weight.
Your prescribing doctor will make the final determination, but these are common reasons providers decline GLP-1 prescriptions:
GLP-1 medications carry a boxed warning related to thyroid C-cell tumors found in animal studies.
A contraindication listed on all GLP-1 receptor agonist prescribing information.
GLP-1 medications may increase the risk of pancreatitis. Discuss with your doctor.
GLP-1 medications are not approved for use during pregnancy. Most providers require stopping 2 months prior to conception.
GLP-1 medications are not indicated for type 1 diabetes management.
Many providers screen for eating disorders before prescribing appetite-suppressing medication.
Most GLP-1 telehealth providers require patients to be 18+. Some FDA-approved formulations are approved for ages 12+ under specialist care.
Whether you see a doctor online or in-person, here's the typical process:
You'll provide your medical history, current medications, height, weight, and health goals.
A licensed clinician reviews your information and determines if you're a candidate. Some providers do video visits; others use async review.
If approved, the doctor writes a prescription. You'll start on a low dose and titrate up over several weeks.
Most telehealth providers ship medication directly to your door — typically within 3–5 business days.
These telehealth providers offer consultations with licensed clinicians who can determine your eligibility and prescribe GLP-1 medications.
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