GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications
Physician-supervised semaglutide and tirzepatide therapy, paired with nutrition and lifestyle support.
GLP-1 medications (such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, commonly known by brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound) can be powerful tools for weight management when prescribed and monitored by a physician. At Westside Women's Health, GLP-1 therapy is offered as part of a complete plan — not a quick fix — with attention to nutrition, muscle preservation, and your overall health.
Fast Facts About GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 (and dual GLP-1/GIP) medications reduce appetite and slow stomach emptying
They are prescription medications that require medical evaluation and monitoring
They work best alongside nutrition, activity, and muscle-preserving habits
They are not appropriate for everyone — candidacy is individualized
Who May Benefit
- Adults working toward meaningful, sustainable weight loss
- Those who haven't reached their goals with lifestyle changes alone
- Patients with weight-related health concerns who are appropriate candidates
- People who want close physician supervision while on therapy
How GLP-1 Medications Work
GLP-1 medications mimic a natural gut hormone that signals fullness, slows stomach emptying, and helps regulate blood sugar. The result is reduced appetite and easier portion control, which supports gradual weight loss. Some agents (such as tirzepatide) also act on a second hormone pathway (GIP). Medication is one part of the picture — pairing it with adequate protein, resistance training, and good nutrition helps protect lean muscle and supports durable results.
Our Supervised Approach
We start with a thorough evaluation of your history, goals, and any conditions that affect candidacy. If GLP-1 therapy is appropriate, we individualize the medication and dose, titrate gradually to limit side effects, and monitor your progress and tolerance over time. We adjust the plan as you go and coordinate with your broader care so the medication fits safely into your overall health.
Medication With a Program vs. Medication Alone
Supervised Program (Our Approach)
- Medical evaluation confirms candidacy and safety
- Gradual titration and ongoing monitoring of side effects
- Nutrition and resistance training protect lean muscle
- Plan adjusts over time and supports maintenance
Medication Alone
- Little guidance on dosing or side-effect management
- Higher risk of muscle loss without nutrition support
- No structured plan for maintaining results
- Weight is more likely to return if medication stops
Safety & Side Effects
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, constipation, or diarrhea — and usually ease as the dose is titrated slowly. GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for everyone, including certain personal or family histories and during pregnancy or attempts to conceive. We review your history, discuss risks and benefits, and monitor you throughout treatment. Always tell us about other medications and conditions before starting.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
- ✓A list of current medications and supplements
- ✓Your weight history and previous approaches you've tried
- ✓Relevant medical and family history
- ✓Your goals and any concerns about side effects
- ✓Recent labs, if you have them
Frequently Asked Questions
1Which GLP-1 medications do you offer?
We prescribe physician-supervised GLP-1 and dual GLP-1/GIP therapies such as semaglutide and tirzepatide when they're appropriate for you. The specific medication and dose are individualized after your evaluation.
2How quickly will I lose weight?
Weight loss is gradual and varies from person to person. Doses are increased slowly to limit side effects, and the best, most durable results come from pairing medication with nutrition and activity. We'll set realistic expectations for your situation.
3What are the most common side effects?
Most side effects are digestive — nausea, constipation, or diarrhea — and tend to improve as the dose is titrated. We monitor you throughout and adjust the plan as needed. Tell us about any other conditions or medications before starting.
4Do you take insurance, or is this direct pay?
Westside Women's Health is a direct-pay practice. We'll be transparent about costs and provide a superbill on request that you can submit to your insurer. We'll discuss medication options and pricing during your visit.
5Will I regain the weight if I stop?
Weight can return after stopping any weight-loss medication, which is why we focus on sustainable habits alongside therapy and plan for maintenance. We'll talk through long-term strategy as part of your care.
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Explore Whether GLP-1 Therapy Is Right for You
If you're considering GLP-1 medications for weight management, we'll evaluate your candidacy and build a supervised plan that fits your goals.
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