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What this guide covers
Preparação para a primeira consulta de GLP-1: doze perguntas que valem a pena, porque cada uma importa, e como soa uma boa resposta. This is patient education, not a substitute for the prescriber who knows your case. Generic names sit next to brand names throughout: semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound).
Key points
- Am I a candidate for a GLP-1 based on my BMI and health markers?. The FDA indications are specific. Wegovy and Zepbound are approved for adults with a BMI of 30+, or 27+ with at least one weight-related condition (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease). Ozempic and Mounjaro are approved for type 2 diabetes. A good answer walks you through which label applies to your situation and why. If the answer is vague, that's a reason to ask for specifics. The criteria are right on the label.
- Which specific GLP-1 are you recommending, and why this one?. There are four major options: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound. A good answer names the drug and gives the reasoning: your indication (diabetes vs. obesity), your insurance formulary, side effect tolerance, and which drug the prescriber has experience with. 'Whatever your insurance covers' is an honest and legitimate answer. 'Because it's the newest' is not.
- What's my insurance situation with this drug?. Coverage for GLP-1s varies a lot by plan and by indication. Ozempic and Mounjaro are more commonly covered for diabetes; Wegovy and Zepbound coverage for obesity is inconsistent. Ask: is prior authorization required? What documentation does the plan want? Does the prescriber's office help with PA paperwork or is that on you? Is there a manufacturer savings card that applies (Zepbound and Wegovy both have them for commercially insured patients)?
- What are the most common side effects I should expect in week 1?. A good answer covers the GI landscape (nausea, constipation, diarrhea, possibly vomiting), the typical timeline (heaviest in the first 1-2 weeks of each dose, usually fading), and practical counsel (small meals, lower fat, slow sips of fluid). If the answer is a generic 'you might feel nauseous,' ask for more specifics. The prescribing information has real detail and your prescriber should have it on hand.
- What's the dose escalation schedule you'll use?. The FDA labels lay out standard schedules: Ozempic starts at 0.25mg for 4 weeks, moves to 0.5mg, then 1mg, with 2mg as maximum. Wegovy titrates faster to 2.4mg. Mounjaro and Zepbound start at 2.5mg and step up by 2.5mg every 4 weeks to a maximum of 15mg. A good answer confirms the schedule and makes it clear the prescriber will slow it down if side effects are rough. 'We'll follow the label' is fine; 'we'll see how you feel at each step' is better.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I plan for this appointment?
Most initial GLP-1 consults run 20-40 minutes. If you bring this list of 12 questions, expect to cover maybe 6-8 of them in the first visit and circle back to the rest at the 4-week follow-up. Prioritize the ones specific to your situation: insurance (#3), which drug and why (#2), the dose schedule (#5), and the warning signs (#10) are the four that usually can't wait.
What if my doctor only gives me 12 minutes?
This is common, especially in busy primary care. Two strategies: ask for the longer slot when you book (specifically: 'I'd like a 30-minute consult to discuss GLP-1 therapy'), and/or bring a printed list and ask which questions the office prefers to handle by portal message versus in-person. A good practice will help you route the questions rather than brushing them off.
Should I see a specialist instead of my PCP?
For most eligible adults, the primary care prescriber is fine for GLP-1 management. Endocrinologists and obesity medicine specialists bring deeper experience, especially for complex cases: existing diabetes with complications, history of pancreatitis, medullary thyroid cancer risk, or a previous GLP-1 that didn't work. Referral is worth asking about if your PCP seems unsure.
What do I need to bring?
A list of your current medications (including supplements), your most recent labs if you have them, your insurance card, and a notes app or paper for answers. If you've had a previous GLP-1 trial (even briefly), bring the name, dose, how long you were on it, and what made you stop. That history shapes the conversation significantly.
Can I record the appointment?
Laws vary by state. In single-party consent states (most of the US), you can record your own medical appointment without asking. In two-party consent states (California, Florida, Illinois, and others), you need the prescriber's permission. Asking is the cleaner move everywhere. Most providers will say yes if you frame it as 'I want to remember what you said,' not 'I'm documenting this.' Taking notes is a reasonable fallback anywhere.
What if I don't like the answers I get?
Getting a second opinion is reasonable, especially before starting a medication you're likely to be on for years. Obesity medicine specialists, endocrinologists, and some weight-focused primary care practices all prescribe these drugs. A thoughtful prescriber will welcome a second opinion rather than feel threatened. You're not obligated to start a drug from the first consult.
Sources
Related reading
The Complete GLP-1 Guide for Beginners
What GLP-1s are. How they work in the body. Who they are approved for. The four drugs on the market. Explained without the hype.
Mounjaro vs Ozempic vs Wegovy vs Zepbound: A Calm Comparison
The four big GLP-1 drugs compared on mechanism, efficacy, side effects, and cost. What the trials actually showed, side by side.
Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide: How Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound Compare
Two different molecules, two different receptor targets, and one head-to-head trial. What the SURPASS-2, STEP-1, and SURMOUNT-1 data show on weight, blood sugar, side effects, dosing, and cost, in plain language.