Whether you're walking into your doctor's office or logging into a telehealth consultation, here's a detailed walkthrough so nothing catches you off guard.
The first appointment is often the hardest — not because the process is complicated, but because the unknown creates anxiety. Here's exactly what happens, step by step, so you can focus on the conversation instead of worrying about what comes next.
For in-person visits: Wear comfortable clothing (you'll be weighed). Bring a list of current medications, your medical history, and any recent lab work. Arrive 15 minutes early for paperwork.
For telehealth: Most platforms ask you to complete a health questionnaire before your consultation. This covers medical history, current medications, weight history, past weight loss attempts, and your goals. Be thorough — the more information you provide upfront, the more productive the consultation.
Either way, have ready:
Your provider will work through several areas:
Vitals and measurements: Height, weight, BMI calculation, blood pressure, and sometimes waist circumference. Telehealth platforms may ask you to self-report these or have you visit a local lab or pharmacy for measurements.
Medical history review: Your provider will screen for contraindications — conditions that make certain medications unsafe. For GLP-1s, the key contraindications are personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2 syndrome, active pancreatitis, and severe gastroparesis. For phentermine, uncontrolled hypertension and heart disease are concerns.
Lab orders: Expect your provider to order (or review recent results for): fasting glucose and/or HbA1c, complete metabolic panel (kidney and liver function), lipid panel (cholesterol, triglycerides), and thyroid function (TSH). Some providers also check vitamin D, B12, and insulin levels. If you're going through a telehealth platform, they may send you to Quest, Labcorp, or a local lab partner.
The conversation: This is where your preparation pays off. Your provider will ask about your weight loss history, your goals, and your preferences (injection vs. pill, brand preference, budget constraints). Be honest about past attempts and what hasn't worked — this information directly informs medication selection.
Based on your evaluation, your provider will recommend a medication. This isn't a one-size-fits-all decision — it factors in your clinical profile, goals, format preference, and budget.
All GLP-1 medications start at a low dose and titrate up over weeks or months. This gradual approach minimizes side effects (especially nausea) and lets your body adjust. Your provider will explain the titration schedule, what to expect in the first few weeks, and when to contact them if something doesn't feel right.
What you'll leave with (or receive by mail):
Which medication do you recommend for my situation, and why? What side effects should I expect in the first month? What happens if I don't respond well to this medication? When should I contact you between appointments? What does the titration schedule look like? How will we measure success beyond the scale?
Telehealth appointments are typically faster (15–30 minutes vs. 30–60 for in-person) and focus on the medical evaluation and prescription. The health questionnaire you complete beforehand replaces much of the in-person intake. Medication ships directly to you, usually within 3–7 days. Follow-up is often via messaging or brief video check-ins.
In-person appointments offer a more comprehensive physical examination, direct vital sign measurement, and may feel more personal. Lab work can sometimes be drawn on-site. However, scheduling, travel, and wait times add friction that telehealth eliminates.
Neither approach is categorically better — it depends on the complexity of your case and your personal preferences.
Complete your health assessment online, consult with a licensed provider, and have medication delivered. The process is designed to remove barriers, not create them.
Start Your Assessment →The first 4 weeks on medication are an adjustment period. Here's what's typical:
GLP-1 programs with behavioral coaching support — particularly valuable during the adjustment period when guidance makes the biggest difference.
Learn More →