Who can prescribe Ozempic for weight loss? Understanding your options

What you’ll learn:       

• Ozempic^®, a GLP-1 medication FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, is increasingly being prescribed off-label for weight loss.       
• Primary care doctors, certified clinicians, and specialists like endocrinologists can write a prescription for Ozempic^®.    
• If you qualify, Noom Med will connect you with a qualified clinician who can prescribe Ozempic^® or an alternative medication, if appropriate.

If diet and exercise aren’t getting you the results you want, you might be considering medications like Ozempic^®. Initially approved by the FDA to treat type 2 diabetes, Ozempic^® has gained fame for its off-label use for weight management. 

Ozempic^® contains the active ingredient semaglutide, which is considered a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means that it mimics how GLP-1, a natural hormone, works in your body to regulate appetite. Studies show it can lead to an average weight loss of 15% of body weight over 68 weeks.

If you’re ready to see what it can do for you, be aware that getting Ozempic^® requires a prescription and regular monitoring by a doctor or clinician. 

Here’s a closer look at who Ozempic^® is right for, who can prescribe it, what it typically costs, and some alternatives.

Am I a good candidate for Ozempic^®?

First, while you might think Ozempic^® is right for you, there are strict guidelines for who can take it. When a doctor or clinician is deciding whether to prescribe Ozempic^®, they consider a few things:

• BMI (body mass index): You’ll need a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 and above, with a weight-related health condition like high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes. 
• Weight loss history: But it’s not just about the numbers—your overall health and what you’ve tried before also matter. Your doctor will probably ask what other weight loss methods you’ve tried. Have you changed your diet, gotten more active, or tried other medications? 
• Health history: Be prepared to discuss past or present medical conditions, especially diabetes, pancreatitis, kidney problems, gallbladder disease, and cancer.

How do I get a prescription through Noom Med?

If you qualify, Noom Med will connect you with a clinician who can prescribe Ozempic^® or another medication.

The Noom Med process is as follows:

1. You’ll take a brief intake survey. You’ll receive a recommended clinical plan after you share your health history, weight loss goals, and current medications.
2. You’ll be connected with an expert clinician. A licensed clinician will review your health history while conducting a telehealth appointment and, if appropriate, provide a prescription—all online.
3. You’ll get a prescription and a customized treatment plan. You’ll fill your prescription at your local pharmacy.
4. You’ll get ongoing care and medication: Stay on course with continuous support from your clinician and access to medication refills as needed and clinically approved.

Whether you choose Ozempic^® or an alternative, you’ll have our support throughout your journey.

Can my primary care doctor prescribe Ozempic^® for weight loss?

Your primary care doctor can usually prescribe Ozempic^® if they’re familiar with GLP-1 medications and their use for weight management. They should have experience helping patients lose weight and know the latest guidelines for these medications.

How can I prepare for my primary care appointment to discuss weight loss medication?

Before you head to your appointment, jot down your weight loss journey and any health concerns. It’s also helpful to list out your current medications. This info helps your doctor figure out if Ozempic^® might work for you.

How should I bring up Ozempic^® with my doctor?

Think about sharing your weight loss journey so far. You might say something like, “I’ve been trying to lose weight through diet and exercise, but I’m struggling. Could we talk about whether a medication like Ozempic^® might help?” Be ready to chat about your health history and any other medications you’re taking.

Will I need to see a specialist for an Ozempic^® prescription?

Not always. Many primary care doctors can prescribe medications like Ozempic^® to help with weight loss. But if you have other health conditions or a complex medical history, they might suggest you talk to a specialist who focuses on weight management. 

Specialists who prescribe Ozempic^® for weight loss

Doctors who specialize in managing hormones and body composition can guide you toward the right medication. Here’s a quick guide to which specialists might be helpful:

• Endocrinologists: If you have hormone-related issues like diabetes or thyroid problems, an endocrinologist is the go-to expert. They specialize in managing hormones and can tailor weight loss treatments like Ozempic^® to your specific needs.
• Obesity medicine specialists: These doctors focus specifically on treating obesity and related conditions. They have advanced knowledge of weight loss medications and can offer a comprehensive approach to managing your weight, including personalized treatment plans and lifestyle changes.
• Bariatric physician: A bariatric physician specializes in non-surgical weight management. They can provide guidance on medications, diet, and exercise and are particularly helpful if you’ve struggled with weight loss in the past.

If your weight loss journey has been challenging, one of these specialists might be the right choice to help you achieve better results.

How can I find the right specialist for me?

Start by asking your regular doctor for a recommendation. You can also explore online directories of medical associations or use telehealth platforms to find experts. 

How often will I see my specialist while taking Ozempic^®?

You’ll likely have regular check-ins, but how often can vary. These visits help make sure Ozempic^® is working well for you and allow for any needed adjustments. Your specialist might team up with other healthcare providers or programs like Noom to give you comprehensive support on your journey to better health.

What are some alternatives to Ozempic^®?

If you’re considering weight loss medications, you might wonder if there are alternatives to well-known brands like Ozempic^®. The good news is that there are several other options.

Medication	Brand names and uses	Administration	Effectiveness	Cost per month (without insurance)
Semaglutide – GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake	Wegovy® (weight loss) Ozempic® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss) Rybelsus® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss),	Weekly injection or daily pill (Rybelsus)	In a clinical trial, people taking injectable semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their initial body weight over 68 weeks.	Ozempic®/Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more Wegovy®: $1,350  Learn more $499 (NovoCare Pharmacy)
Tirzepatide – GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake. The action on both receptors boosts effectiveness	Zepbound® (weight loss), Mounjaro® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss)	Weekly injection	In a study, participants lost an average of 21% of their body weight after 72 weeks on the maximum dose of tirzepatide.	Mounjaro®: $1,000-$1,050 Zepbound®: Pens: $1,086 Vial & syringe: $349 (2.5 mg), $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) through Lily Direct.
Liraglutide– GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate appetite and calorie intake	Victoza®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Saxenda®: weight loss and heart disease Generic liraglutide: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss	Daily injection	A study showed that weight loss over a year was 6% with a 3 mg dose.	Victoza®: $800 to $1,400 Saxenda®: $1,350 Learn more. Generic liraglutide: $470 – $700
Exenatide- GLP-1 receptor agonist that regulates blood sugar	Byetta® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss), Bydureon® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss)	Twice daily injection	A study showed that 56% of people lost 5% or more of their body weight with exenatide over six months.	$190-$220
Dulaglutide-GLP-1 receptor agonist that regulates blood sugar	Trulicity® (diabetes management, off-label for weight loss)	Weekly injection	Study participants were able to lose up to 5% of body weight while taking a 4.5 mg dose of dulaglutide for 36 weeks.	$230-$1,000

Managing your options with Noom

If you’re ready to try a weight-loss medication, Ozempic^® or one of its alternatives can be prescribed through Noom Med or other healthcare providers. But remember, weight loss is about more than just getting a prescription; it’s about finding the right approach for you.

Noom helps by focusing on personalized lifestyle changes like nutrition, exercise, and behavioral coaching that can be used on their own or combined with medication. Whether you’re focusing on lifestyle changes or exploring medication with Noom Med, you’ll have a comprehensive support system to help you achieve lasting weight loss.

Note: Ozempic^®, Mounjaro^®, Victoza^®, Byetta^®, Bydureon^®, and Trulicity^® are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.