Is GLP-1 Medication Right for Me? An Honest Self-Assessment

You've heard the buzz. Maybe a friend lost fifty pounds on Ozempic. Maybe your doctor mentioned Wegovy at your last checkup. Maybe you've been scrolling through before-and-after photos at 2 AM, wondering if this could finally be the thing that works.

GLP-1 medications have genuinely changed the landscape of weight loss treatment. For the first time in decades, we have medications that produce significant, sustained weight loss for many people. The clinical results are impressive—15-20% body weight loss on average, with some people losing even more.

But here's what the headlines don't tell you: these medications aren't magic, they're not right for everyone, and starting them is a real commitment. Before you book that telehealth appointment, let's have an honest conversation about whether GLP-1 medication might be right for you.

This isn't a quiz that spits out a definitive answer. It's a framework for thinking through this decision thoughtfully—because you deserve to make an informed choice, not an impulsive one.

Understanding What GLP-1 Medications Actually Do

Before we dive into whether you're a good candidate, let's make sure we're on the same page about what these medications are and aren't.

GLP-1 receptor agonists—including semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro)—work by mimicking a hormone your body naturally produces. This hormone tells your brain you're full, slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, and helps regulate blood sugar.

The result? Most people experience significantly reduced appetite and earlier fullness when eating. You're not white-knuckling through hunger—you genuinely feel less interested in food and satisfied with smaller portions.

Understanding this foundation helps you approach the decision with realistic expectations.

The Medical Eligibility Question

Let's start with the objective criteria. The FDA has approved these medications for specific populations, and reputable providers follow these guidelines.

BMI Requirements

The standard eligibility criteria are:

• BMI of 30 or higher (classified as obesity), OR
• BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition

Weight-related health conditions include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea, and heart disease.

To calculate your BMI, divide your weight in pounds by your height in inches squared, then multiply by 703. Or simply search "BMI calculator" online—dozens of free tools exist.

Medical History Considerations

Certain conditions may disqualify you from GLP-1 treatment or require extra caution:

Generally not candidates:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• History of pancreatitis
• Currently pregnant or planning pregnancy soon
• History of severe allergic reaction to GLP-1 medications

Require careful evaluation:

• History of eating disorders (particularly restriction-based)
• Gallbladder disease or history of gallstones
• Kidney disease
• Diabetic retinopathy
• Depression or other mental health conditions

If any of these apply to you, it doesn't automatically mean you can't take GLP-1 medication—but it does mean you need thorough evaluation by a qualified provider who knows your full history.

The Lifestyle Readiness Question

Medical eligibility is just the first hurdle. The more important question might be: are you ready for what this journey actually requires?

Commitment to Behavior Change

Here's an uncomfortable truth: GLP-1 medications work best—and results last longest—when combined with genuine lifestyle changes. The medication reduces your appetite, but you still have to make choices about what you eat, how you move, and how you handle stress.

Ask yourself honestly:

• Am I willing to prioritize protein at every meal?
• Can I commit to some form of regular movement, even just walking?
• Am I prepared to eat smaller portions and stop when full (even when food is delicious)?
• Will I attend follow-up appointments and communicate with my provider?

If you're hoping the medication will do all the work while you continue eating fast food daily and never exercising, you'll likely be disappointed. The medication is a powerful tool, but it's still just a tool.

Long-Term Perspective

Current evidence suggests that most people need to continue GLP-1 medication long-term to maintain weight loss. Studies show significant weight regain when people stop the medication—not because they lack willpower, but because the biological drivers of weight regain return.

This means:

• Ongoing monthly costs (potentially for years)
• Weekly injections as part of your routine indefinitely
• Regular medical follow-up

Some people do successfully transition off medication after reaching their goals, but they're the exception rather than the rule. Going in, assume this is a long-term commitment.

Financial Reality

Let's talk money, because it matters.

Brand-name GLP-1 medications without insurance cost $900-$1,500+ per month. Even with insurance, many plans don't cover weight loss medications, or require prior authorization and step therapy.

More affordable options exist:

• Compounded semaglutide/tirzepatide: $150-$400/month through telehealth providers
• Manufacturer savings programs (for those with commercial insurance)
• Some telehealth programs with medication included

But even at the lower end, you're looking at $150-300+ monthly, potentially for years. Can your budget sustain this? Have you thought about what happens if your financial situation changes?

This isn't meant to discourage you—just to ensure you're planning realistically.

The Emotional Readiness Question

This might be the most important section, and it's the one most people skip. Weight loss—especially significant weight loss—is an emotional experience, not just a physical one.

Your Relationship with Food

GLP-1 medications fundamentally change how you experience hunger and food. For most people, this is liberating. But for some, it's disorienting or even distressing.

Consider:

• How much of your social life revolves around food?
• Do you eat for comfort, stress relief, or emotional regulation?
• How will you feel if food no longer provides the same pleasure?
• Do you have other coping mechanisms for difficult emotions?

If food is your primary way of managing stress or emotions, you may need additional support—therapy, support groups, or other resources—alongside medication. The medication won't teach you new coping skills; it just removes the old one.

History of Disordered Eating

This deserves special attention. If you have a history of anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or other eating disorders, GLP-1 medication requires very careful consideration.

For some people with binge eating disorder, the appetite suppression can be genuinely therapeutic. For others—particularly those with restriction-based eating disorders—it can trigger or worsen dangerous patterns.

If this applies to you, please work with a provider who specializes in eating disorders and can monitor you closely. This isn't a decision to make through a quick telehealth visit.

Body Image and Identity

Here's something nobody warns you about: losing significant weight can be psychologically complex, even when it's what you wanted.

Your body will look different. People will treat you differently. You may need new clothes, and your sense of physical self will shift. Some people experience something like grief—for their former body, for years spent struggling, for the simplicity of their previous identity.

None of this means you shouldn't pursue treatment. It just means you should be prepared for the emotional journey alongside the physical one. Consider whether you have support systems in place—friends, family, a therapist—to process these changes.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Take some time with these questions. Maybe journal about them. Discuss them with someone you trust.

About your motivations:

• Why do I want to lose weight right now?
• Am I doing this for myself, or to please someone else?
• What do I hope will change in my life if I lose weight?
• Are my expectations realistic?

About your readiness:

• Have I tried other approaches to weight loss? What worked and what didn't?
• Am I in a stable enough life situation to take this on?
• Do I have the time for appointments and the mental space for this process?
• Who will support me through this journey?

About your understanding:

• Do I understand how these medications work?
• Am I aware of the common side effects?
• Have I researched different providers and options?
• Do I know what questions to ask a doctor?

There are no right or wrong answers. But if you find yourself unable to answer, or if your answers reveal concerns, it might be worth pausing to address those before moving forward.

Signs GLP-1 Medication Might Be Right for You

You might be a good candidate if:

• You meet the BMI criteria and have struggled with weight despite genuine effort
• You've tried lifestyle changes alone and they weren't sufficient
• You understand this is a long-term commitment, not a quick fix
• You're prepared to combine medication with healthy eating and movement
• You have realistic expectations about results and timeline
• You can afford the ongoing cost
• You don't have medical contraindications
• You're emotionally prepared for the journey

Signs to Pause and Reconsider

You might want to wait or explore other options if:

• You're seeking a quick fix for a special event
• You're not willing to make any lifestyle changes
• You can't afford the medication without financial strain
• You have unaddressed eating disorder history
• You're in a particularly unstable or stressful life period
• You're pregnant, nursing, or planning pregnancy soon
• You have medical contraindications
• You're primarily motivated by pressure from others

Waiting doesn't mean never. It might just mean "not right now" or "not without additional support first."

The Next Step

If you've read through this guide and feel like GLP-1 medication might be right for you, the next step is talking to a healthcare provider. This could be:

• Your primary care physician
• An endocrinologist or obesity medicine specialist
• A reputable telehealth provider specializing in weight management

Come prepared with your medical history, list of current medications, and your questions. A good provider will do their own assessment and help you make the final decision together.

A Final Thought

Deciding to try GLP-1 medication is personal. There's no universal right answer—only the right answer for you, in your circumstances, at this point in your life.

Whatever you decide, approach it with self-compassion. If you move forward, know that struggles and setbacks are normal. If you decide it's not right for you, that's a valid choice too.

Your worth isn't determined by a number on a scale or whether you take a particular medication. You deserve support and respect regardless of what you decide.