Sometimes. Coverage depends on your plan, your diagnosis and whether the specific medication is on formulary — plans that cover a drug for type 2 diabetes often won't cover the same drug for weight loss. We check your benefits before your first visit and file prior authorization when there's a path. Self-pay pricing is quoted up front either way, with no surprise billing.

Most patients notice appetite changes within the first few weeks, but meaningful weight change usually shows up once you reach a therapeutic dose around week eight to twelve. Results vary widely, and nobody can honestly promise you a number.

Nausea, reflux, constipation and fatigue are the common ones, usually strongest in the days after a dose increase and easing as your body adjusts. Most of it is manageable with hydration, smaller meals and pacing the titration. Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting or a lump in your neck are not normal — call us, don't wait for your next appointment.

Appetite typically returns, and weight regain is common without a plan. That's why we build the maintenance phase into the program from the start: strength training, protein targets, and either a lower maintenance dose or a structured taper depending on where you land.

Your first visit and lab work happen in person. After that, most follow-ups can be handled virtually if that's easier for you — though we'll ask you back in for periodic weigh-ins and repeat labs.