How to Choose a GLP-1 Clinic: What to Ask Before You Sign Up
Six questions that separate credible medical weight loss clinics from thin med-spas — and what the answers should tell you.
Written & reviewed by Laura de Leon — MS, Health Product Regulation & Health Policy · 24+ years in pharmaceutical clinical development · Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner
Six Questions That Separate Credible Clinics from Thin Med-Spas
The GLP-1 market has exploded. With that growth has come a wave of clinics — some excellent, some thin operations that will take your money and provide minimal oversight. Here's how to tell the difference before you sign up.
1. Who is the prescribing physician, and what are their credentials?
Every GLP-1 prescription must come from a licensed physician (or, in some states, a nurse practitioner or PA under physician supervision). The question is: what kind of physician?
What to look for: A physician who is board-certified in obesity medicine (ABOM certification), internal medicine, or endocrinology. The American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM) certification is the gold standard — it means the physician has passed a rigorous exam specifically on obesity treatment.
Red flag: A clinic that can't tell you who the prescribing physician is, or where the physician has no relevant specialty training.
You can verify any physician's NPI number and license status at NPPES.hhs.gov and your state's medical board website.
2. What happens if I have a side effect or complication?
GLP-1 medications have real side effects — nausea, vomiting, gastroparesis (in rare cases), and others. A credible clinic has a clear protocol for managing side effects and a physician available to adjust your dose or discontinue treatment.
What to look for: A direct line to a physician (not just a customer service rep), a clear dose-adjustment protocol, and a policy for what happens if you need to stop treatment.
Red flag: A clinic that only offers asynchronous messaging and no way to speak with a physician directly.
3. What's actually included in the monthly fee?
Monthly fees vary widely, and what's included varies even more. Some clinics include medication; others bill it separately. Some include lab work; others charge extra.
Ask specifically:
- Is medication included in the monthly fee?
- What lab work is required, and who pays for it?
- Are follow-up consultations included?
- What happens if I need a dose adjustment?
Red flag: Vague answers, or a clinic that can't give you a clear total monthly cost before you sign up.
4. Is the medication compounded or brand-name?
Compounded semaglutide is significantly cheaper than brand-name Ozempic or Wegovy, but it's not identical. Compounded medications are made by compounding pharmacies and are not FDA-approved as finished drug products (though the active ingredient is the same).
What to look for: Transparency about whether the medication is compounded or brand-name, which pharmacy compounds it, and whether the pharmacy is FDA-registered.
Red flag: A clinic that isn't clear about the source of the medication, or that claims compounded semaglutide is "the same as Ozempic" without acknowledging the regulatory distinction.
5. What's the cancellation policy?
Monthly programs can be expensive. Before you commit, understand exactly how to cancel and what happens to your medication supply if you do.
What to look for: A clear, written cancellation policy. Month-to-month programs with no long-term commitment are generally preferable for new patients.
Red flag: Long-term contracts, cancellation fees, or a policy that requires you to return unused medication.
6. How do they handle the plateau?
Most GLP-1 patients experience significant weight loss in the first 6–12 months, followed by a plateau. A credible clinic has a protocol for this — whether it's a dose adjustment, adding a second medication, or transitioning to a maintenance program.
What to look for: A physician who discusses long-term treatment planning, not just the initial prescription.
Red flag: A clinic that focuses entirely on the initial weight loss and has no plan for what happens after the first year.
The Bottom Line
A credible GLP-1 clinic will answer all six of these questions clearly and without hesitation. If a clinic is evasive, vague, or can't tell you who the prescribing physician is — move on.
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