# How to Start GLP-1 Therapy: A Step-by-Step Guide **By TelosRX Editorial Team** · 2026-08-12 **Starting GLP-1 therapy for weight loss is more straightforward than most people think. [TelosRX](https://telosrx.com) walks you through eligibility screening, asynchronous provider review, and medication delivery—all without a waiting room. Here's exactly how it works, step by step.** GLP-1 medications—glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists—reduce appetite, slow digestion, and improve insulin response. If you want to understand the biology first, our guide to [how GLP-1 works](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/how-does-glp1-work-mechanism-weight-loss) covers the mechanism in detail. This article is about the practical path from "thinking about it" to "actually on it." ## Step 1: Check Whether You Qualify for GLP-1 Therapy FDA-approved GLP-1 medications are indicated for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher plus at least one weight-related condition. According to [FDA guidance](https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss), qualifying conditions include type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, and cardiovascular disease. Compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved. They require evaluation and a provider-issued prescription. Approval is not guaranteed—it depends on your individual health profile. Common eligibility considerations: - BMI ≥ 30, or BMI ≥ 27 with a qualifying weight-related condition - No personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2 - No active or recent pancreatitis - Not currently pregnant or planning pregnancy - No contraindications to the specific compounded formulation ## Step 2: Choose an Asynchronous Telehealth Provider You don't need a waiting room or a live appointment. Asynchronous telehealth services let you submit a health intake at any time. A licensed provider reviews it on their schedule—typically within 24–48 hours—and responds with a plan, a question, or a decision. When evaluating a provider, look for: - LegitScript certification, which confirms compliance with pharmacy standards - Licensed providers with experience in metabolic health - Transparent pricing and no surprise fees - Clear policies on compounded vs. brand-name medications ## Step 3: Complete Your Health History Intake The online intake form is the foundation of asynchronous care. A thorough form is what allows a provider to assess your eligibility without a live visit. Don't skim it. Expect to report: - Current and past medications - Relevant diagnoses (thyroid history, GI conditions, diabetes status) - Previous weight-loss attempts and results - Allergies and sensitivities - Personal goals and specific concerns If you have recent labs, attach them. If you don't, the provider will specify what's needed before issuing a prescription. ## Step 4: Provider Review and Personalized Plan Once you submit, a licensed provider reviews your intake asynchronously. If you qualify, they issue a provider-issued prescription with a personalized treatment plan. If you don't, they explain why and may suggest alternatives. Your plan will specify: - Which GLP-1 medication and formulation (semaglutide, tirzepatide, etc.) - Starting dose and titration schedule - Delivery format (subcutaneous injection, weekly) - What to monitor and when to follow up ## Step 5: Understand Your GLP-1 Medication Options Two compounded GLP-1 medications dominate telehealth programs. Neither is FDA-approved in compounded form—both require a provider-issued prescription. For a deeper comparison, see: [Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide: Compounded GLP-1 Options Explained](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/tirzepatide-vs-semaglutide-compounded-glp1-comparison). Feature Compounded Semaglutide Compounded Tirzepatide Mechanism GLP-1 receptor agonist GLP-1 + GIP dual agonist Administration Weekly subcutaneous injection Weekly subcutaneous injection FDA-approved brand equivalent Ozempic® / Wegovy® Mounjaro® / Zepbound® Compounded status Not FDA-approved Not FDA-approved Primary research use Weight management, glycemic control Weight management, glycemic + appetite ## Step 6: Start at the Lowest Dose and Titrate Slowly GLP-1 therapy always begins at the lowest effective dose. Your provider sets the titration schedule—typically dose increases every 4 weeks, contingent on tolerance. Slow titration is the primary strategy for reducing nausea and GI side effects, per a [clinical management review published in PMC](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12194299/). What to expect in the first 4–8 weeks: - Mild to moderate nausea, especially after injection — usually improves over 2–4 weeks - Reduced appetite, sometimes dramatically — this is the intended effect - Possible constipation — hydration and dietary fiber help - Gradual body composition changes — not sudden or dramatic in the first weeks For specific strategies to manage common side effects, see: [GLP-1 Side Effects Management: What Research Shows](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/glp1-side-effects-management-research). ## Step 7: Optimize Nutrition and Activity GLP-1 medications reduce appetite significantly. The goal is to eat better on less—not just less. - **Protein first:** 25–30 g per meal supports lean mass during caloric restriction - **Whole foods over processed:** Processed foods can partially override GLP-1's satiety signals - **Hydration:** Reduced food intake often means reduced water intake — drink intentionally - **Portion awareness:** GLP-1 slows gastric emptying; overeating when full causes nausea Resistance training two to three times per week is the most effective strategy for preserving lean mass during weight loss. See: [Muscle Loss on Semaglutide: Preserving Lean Mass on GLP-1](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/muscle-loss-on-semaglutide-lean-mass-glp1). ## Step 8: Plan for Long-Term Use or a Clear Exit Strategy GLP-1 medications address a biological driver of weight gain—not a willpower deficit. Research consistently shows that weight regain occurs in most people who stop without a transition plan. If you decide to stop, work with your provider on a tapering and maintenance approach. Read: [What Happens When You Stop Semaglutide—and What to Do](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/stopping-semaglutide-weight-regain-glp1-guide). ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How do I know if I qualify for GLP-1 therapy? General eligibility is a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a qualifying weight-related condition. Compounded GLP-1 medications require evaluation and a provider-issued prescription. A licensed provider reviews your health history asynchronously to determine whether therapy is appropriate. Approval is not guaranteed. ### Can I get GLP-1 medication through telehealth? Yes. Asynchronous telehealth platforms allow you to submit a health history intake online. A licensed provider reviews it and, if appropriate, issues a prescription. TelosRX operates as an online-first asynchronous telehealth service—no live appointment is required to begin the evaluation process. ### How long until I see results on GLP-1 therapy? Most people notice appetite suppression within the first 1–2 weeks. Measurable changes in body composition typically become apparent over 4–12 weeks. Results vary based on the medication, dose, diet, activity level, and individual response. Individual results vary. ### What is the difference between compounded and FDA-approved GLP-1? FDA-approved medications like Wegovy® and Zepbound® have completed clinical trials and received FDA approval. Compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved and are prepared under federal compounding regulations. Both require a provider-issued prescription. TelosRX offers compounded options, subject to provider evaluation. ### What should I eat while on GLP-1 medication? Focus on high-protein, whole-food meals with adequate fiber. GLP-1 slows digestion and reduces appetite, so portion sizes matter. Avoid ultra-processed foods that can override satiety signals, and stay hydrated. Your provider can offer personalized nutritional guidance as part of your plan. ### Is GLP-1 therapy a long-term commitment? For most people, yes. Studies show that weight regain is common after stopping GLP-1 medications without a transition plan, because they address a biological—not behavioral—driver of weight. Your provider can help you plan a long-term strategy, whether that means continuing, tapering, or transitioning to lifestyle maintenance. _TelosRX is LegitScript-certified. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and are prepared under federal compounding regulations. Approval is subject to evaluation by a licensed provider; approval is not guaranteed. Individual results vary. TelosRX operates as an online-first, asynchronous telehealth service._ Start your private evaluation at [TelosRX](https://telosrx.com). **Tags:** GLP-1, guide, how-to, semaglutide, telehealth, tirzepatide, weight loss --- > Source: [Telos RX](https://www.telosrx.com/blogs/glp1/how-to-start-glp1-therapy-step-by-step)