You’ve tried everything—cutting carbs, counting calories, following intense workout plans—only to see minimal results or gain the weight back. The scale hasn’t budged in months. Perhaps you’re noticing higher blood pressure at your last checkup or feeling fatigued. If you’re struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions and lifestyle changes alone haven’t worked, you might be wondering if a medical option like GLP-1 weight loss drugs could be right for you.

GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide (brand names include Wegovy and Ozempic) aim to help people who are overweight or obese achieve and maintain weight loss. These medications are part of a medical weight loss strategy tailored to your body and health profile. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, our providers evaluate each patient individually to determine if GLP-1 medications are a safe, effective part of their long-term health journey.

In this article, we describe how to determine your candidacy for GLP-1 weight loss drugs.

What are GLP-1 weight loss drugs?

GLP-1 weight loss drugs are a class of medications that mimic a naturally occurring hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). This hormone is released after you eat and helps regulate blood sugar, slow down digestion, and signal to your brain that you're full. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these weight loss medications help reduce appetite, increase feelings of fullness, and ultimately support weight loss.

Common GLP-1 medications include Semaglutide (sold under brand names like Wegovy and Ozempic) and Tirzepatide. These drugs are injected once weekly and are most effective when used alongside healthy eating, regular physical activity, and medical supervision. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, GLP-1 medications are incorporated into a personalized, comprehensive weight loss program to help patients lose significant weight safely and sustainably.

You may qualify for GLP-1 weight loss drugs if…

You have the right body mass index (BMI) for GLP-1s

One of the primary criteria for qualifying for GLP-1 weight loss drugs is your body mass index or BMI. This number is a measure of body fat based on your height and weight. Most providers use the following general guidelines when evaluating a patient for GLP-1 therapy:

• Your BMI is 30 or higher, indicating obesity
• Your BMI is 27 or higher, indicating being overweight, and you also have weight-related health conditions (such as high blood pressure or Type 2 diabetes)

BMI isn’t a perfect measure, but it gives clinicians a standardized tool to assess your baseline health risk and decide whether medical intervention is appropriate.

You have weight-related health conditions

Even if your BMI is below 30, you may qualify for GLP-1 medications if you’re dealing with weight-related health issues. These conditions include:

• Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• High cholesterol
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Joint pain related to excess weight

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we take a holistic approach to health. If your excess weight is contributing to other medical problems—or preventing you from improving them—GLP-1 medications may be a valuable part of your treatment plan.

You’ve struggled to lose weight with diet and exercise alone

GLP-1 medications are not meant to replace healthy lifestyle changes, but they are often prescribed when lifestyle modifications alone haven’t led to meaningful weight loss. You may be a strong candidate if you’ve been consistently following a healthy eating plan and staying active without significant or lasting results. Our team evaluates your past and current efforts to lose weight and works with you to build a plan that combines medication with lifestyle interventions.

You are not pregnant or planning pregnancy

GLP-1 medications are not approved for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. If you are currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing, these drugs are not recommended for use. Patients who qualify for GLP-1 therapy should discuss any future family planning with their provider before beginning treatment. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we ensure you are fully informed of any risks and that the timing of treatment aligns with your health and life goals.

You are committed to a medically supervised weight loss plan

GLP-1 medications are most effective when used under the care of a medical provider who monitors your progress and adjusts your dosage as needed. To qualify, you should be willing to participate in ongoing medical care, attend regular follow-ups, and engage in a comprehensive plan that includes nutrition and behavior support. At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we partner with you every step of the way—from your consultation to maintenance and long-term success.

You do not have medical conditions that conflict with GLP-1 use

While many people are excellent candidates for GLP-1 medications, certain medical conditions may prevent safe usage. These include:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Severe gastrointestinal disorders
• Pancreatitis
• Allergies to components of the medication

Your medical history is thoroughly reviewed by the clinicians at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine to ensure your treatment is safe and effective. If GLP-1 medications aren’t right for you, we’ll explore other medical weight loss options that fit your unique profile.

Start your personalized weight loss journey at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine

If you're struggling with weight and wondering if GLP-1 medications could finally offer the support you've been missing, you're not alone—and you're not without options. The caring team at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine is here to help you uncover the most effective, medically sound solution for your body and goals. Our personalized programs are built on science, backed by experience, and tailored to the whole you. Schedule a consultation today to determine if GLP-1 weight loss therapy is your next step toward lasting transformation.