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Best Weight Loss Injections 

When diet, exercise and lifestyle changes fall short of delivering the results you desire, it can be beyond defeating. But should you jump on the weight loss injection bandwagon? Find out what you need to consider before giving weight loss injections a shot. 

How We Chose the Best Weight Loss Injections 

Americans have struggled with their weight for decades, with current trends continuing to raise alarm. According to recent research, nearly three in four adults in the United States are now considered overweight or have obesity[1], up from just over half in the 1990s. And that data shows no signs of slowing down. 

Many of us know firsthand how difficult losing weight—and keeping it off—can be. Thanks to the explosion of weight loss injections into the mainstream market, finally dropping those extra pounds seems less like a pipedream and more like a possibility than ever before. 

GLP-1 is a class of medications primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes, though some formulations are also approved for the treatment of obesity. They work by mimicking a hormone that is released in the body in response to eating. Like this hormone, GLP-1s help control blood sugar, reduce appetite and keep you feeling fuller, longer.

Although it may seem like nearly everyone is taking GLP-1s, or at least talking about them, there are a stringent set of requirements to qualify for this treatment, as well as important information to think about, alternatives you may not have heard of, and more. 

We’ve compiled a few critical topics you should consider before using GLP-1s to help with your health and weight loss goals:

Treatment Goals

Weight loss injections can only be prescribed by a healthcare professional (HCP). Since some GLP-1s are specifically approved for type 2 diabetes, while others are more for weight management, reducing cardiovascular risk, or even sleep apnea, discussing your overall goals and health can help an HCP provide the right recommendation for you. Online telehealth platforms, like those on our list, have made connecting with an HCP to discuss GLP-1s easier, faster and, in some cases, more affordable than ever. 

Health History 

Before starting a GLP-1 medication, you’ll need to provide insight into any preexisting conditions, family history, and any health concerns to make sure it’s safe for you. These medications aren’t recommended for people with certain thyroid conditions, past pancreatitis or digestive issues. Your provider will also want to know if you have kidney disease, take diabetes medications, or are pregnant or planning to be. Sharing your full medical background helps ensure a GLP-1 is both safe and effective for your overall health goals, so make sure you choose a platform or provider who makes getting the full picture a priority.

Dosing/Administration 

The majority of GLP-1s are required to be injected one to two times a week, while some may need to be administered daily. Not everyone may be on board with giving themselves a shot, and that’s ok. Many of the platforms that made our list for best weight loss injections also offer alternative weight management options you may want to explore, like oral treatments (ie, pills), supplements, hormone therapy and more that can still help with weight loss. 

Side Effects & Tolerability 

As with any medication, weight loss injections can come with side effects, some of the most common being nausea, vomiting, constipation and reduced appetite. While these may be mild or temporary, side effects can vary by treatment and your own personal medical history. It’s vital to work with a trusted healthcare professional throughout your journey so they can provide the right recommendations and help you manage any unwanted side effects. 

Insurance Coverage/Cost 

This may be one of the hottest topics when it comes to weight loss injections, and also one of the most controversial. Coverage varies widely, and just because you qualify for a GLP-1 does not mean your insurance will cover it, leaving many people wondering how they could possibly afford a medication that can run several hundred dollars per month. The good news is that many of the telehealth platforms on our list provide alternative, more affordable options that don’t require insurance, like compounded weight loss medications, payment plans and members-only discounts. 

Support

With so many options on the market and misinformation masquerading as fact, it’s absolutely critical to consult a healthcare professional to discuss your unique situation. Thankfully, the telehealth platforms we’ve vetted help make that as painless as possible by connecting you with a HCP from the comfort of your own home. Some offer live medical consultations, prescription services (when clinically appropriate), monitoring, lifestyle coaching and ongoing follow-up care throughout your journey. You may decide you want an option that offers a more holistic approach with nutrition support, meal plans, progress tracking, behavior modification tools and more in combination with your weight loss medication.