Am I a Candidate for Medical Weight Loss?
Only a licensed healthcare provider can definitively determine your eligibility for medical weight loss treatments. However, they evaluate candidates based on established clinical criteria, including BMI, health history, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors.
Standard Clinical Thresholds
According to FDA approval criteria for weight management medications (like semaglutide and tirzepatide), providers generally look for candidates who meet specific Body Mass Index (BMI) thresholds:
BMI of 30 or higher
Classified clinically as obesity. Patients in this category often qualify for medical evaluation regardless of other conditions.
BMI of 27 or higher
Combined with at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), type 2 diabetes, or elevated cholesterol.
Other Evaluated Health Factors
During your consultation, a provider will also thoroughly evaluate:
- Your personal weight history and past attempts at weight loss.
- Current medications to prevent adverse drug interactions.
- Absence of absolute contraindications (e.g., MTC, MEN 2, pregnancy).
Who Is Not a Candidate?
Medical safety is paramount. You are not a candidate for GLP-1 medications if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. You are also excluded if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2 syndrome.
What happens if you don't qualify?
We practice honest medicine. If a provider determines that medication is not safe or medically appropriate for your situation, they will tell you directly. A responsible program does not guarantee a prescription to everyone who applies. If you don't qualify, your provider will discuss alternative approaches or suggest you consult your primary care physician.
Self-Assessment Questions
Before booking a consultation, ask yourself these reflection questions to determine if you are ready for a provider-guided program:
Am I ready to be completely transparent with a provider about my medical history?
Am I willing to commit to ongoing provider check-ins rather than just seeking a quick prescription?
Do I understand that medication is a tool that requires accompanying nutritional and lifestyle efforts?
Am I prepared to communicate openly if I experience side effects?
Do my expectations align with realistic, clinical weight management timelines rather than overnight results?
Prescription Requires Evaluation
Taking a questionnaire or signing up for a consultation does not guarantee medication. Only a clinical evaluation by a licensed medical provider can establish if GLP-1 medications are safe and appropriate for your unique biology.
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
MEDICAL SOURCES & FURTHER READING
These sources address the topics identified below. They provide general education, not individualized medical advice, a clinic endorsement or a prediction of your results. Prescription treatment requires evaluation by a licensed provider; eligibility, medication and dosing depend on individual circumstances.
NIH — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Prescription Medications to Treat Overweight & ObesityWeight-management medication eligibility, appetite, lifestyle support and individualized treatment decisions.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Wegovy prescribing information and Medication Guide (PDF)Semaglutide indications, mechanism, contraindications, thyroid warning, pancreatitis, pregnancy and adverse reactions; this label does not apply to compounded products.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Zepbound prescribing information and Medication Guide (PDF)Tirzepatide indications, dual GIP/GLP-1 mechanism, contraindications and adverse reactions; this label does not apply to compounded products.