Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro—GLP-1 medications have taken the internet by storm. From TikTok testimonials to national commercials, these powerful tools for weight loss are generating a lot of buzz.
But here’s the truth: while GLP-1 medications can be life-changing, they work best when combined with expert medical supervision and lifestyle support.
At Altitude Family & Internal Medicine, we’ve been offering clinically proven, evidence-based medical weight loss programs for nearly 20 years. GLP-1s are just one part of a much broader toolkit—and we’re here to help you use them safely and effectively.
What Are GLP-1 Agonists?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are medications that mimic the natural hormone GLP-1. This hormone:
- Regulates appetite and satiety
- Slows digestion
- Improves blood sugar control
These medications were originally developed for managing type 2 diabetes, but many patients noticed significant weight loss. This led to the FDA approval of some GLP-1s for weight management.
Common GLP-1s used for weight loss include:
- Ozempic® (semaglutide) – Originally approved for type 2 diabetes but used off-label for weight loss.
- Wegovy® (semaglutide) – FDA-approved for weight management.
- Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) – A dual-action medication with even greater weight loss potential.
- Saxenda® (liraglutide) – An earlier-generation GLP-1 medication approved for weight loss.
The Medical Benefits of GLP-1 Medications
1. Substantial Weight Loss
Research shows 15–20% weight loss when GLP-1 medications are used in combination with lifestyle changes, a huge improvement over traditional diets and medications.
2. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases
These medications not only help with weight loss, but they also reduce the risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Obesity-related cancers
- Joint problems
3. Improved Appetite Control
By targeting the brain’s hunger centers, GLP-1s help reduce cravings and keep you feeling full for longer periods. This makes it easier to stick to a lower-calorie diet.
4. Better Blood Sugar and Metabolic Health
Even for individuals without diabetes, GLP-1s help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making them an effective tool for improving metabolic health.
Lifestyle Matters: Medications Alone Aren’t Enough
While GLP-1s are powerful, lifestyle changes still play a crucial role in achieving long-term success. Medications alone cannot sustain weight loss without:
- Healthy eating habits: Nutrition that supports metabolism and keeps you feeling satisfied.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise or even small lifestyle changes (like walking or stretching) can make a huge difference.
- Stress management: Chronic stress can sabotage your weight loss, so managing it is key.
- Adequate sleep: Poor sleep can disrupt metabolism and hunger hormones, making it harder to lose weight.
At Altitude Family & Internal Medicine, we help you address all these factors, complementing medication with personalized lifestyle support that helps you make lasting changes.
Not Just GLP-1s: Other Medication Options
While GLP-1 medications are a fantastic option for many, they aren’t right for everyone. That’s why we offer a variety of evidence-based medical weight loss treatments, including:
- Other medication options: We will discuss different medications that may be more suitable based on your medical history and needs.
- Metabolic assessments: Evaluating factors like thyroid function, insulin resistance, or hormone imbalance that could be affecting weight.
- Nutrition counseling: Personalized plans that go beyond one-size-fits-all advice.
- Exercise and behavioral therapy: Support for improving your activity levels and building long-term healthy habits.
No single approach works for everyone. That’s why we offer personalized care and a full range of treatment options tailored to your individual needs.
Why Choose Altitude Instead of Online Clinics?
With the rise of online services offering quick prescriptions, it might seem tempting to skip the in-person consultation. But there are key reasons to choose Altitude Family & Internal Medicine for your weight loss journey:
✅ Comprehensive Medical Evaluation
At Altitude, you’re not just filling out an online form. You’ll get a full medical evaluation to ensure that GLP-1s, or other treatments, are the right choice for you.
✅ Ongoing Medical Supervision
We don’t just hand you a prescription and leave you on your own. We provide structured follow-up and close monitoring for side effects, lab results, and progress. You’ll always have access to your doctor and care team.
✅ Better Pricing
When insurance doesn’t cover GLP-1 medications, our prices are often nearly 50% lower than what you’d pay at major national chains.
✅ Lifestyle Support
We don’t just focus on the medication—we provide personalized lifestyle plans and ongoing behavioral coaching to ensure that your weight loss is sustainable.
Evidence-Based, Clinically Proven Weight Loss
At Altitude, we don’t follow trends. Our weight loss program is rooted in evidence-based medicine, proven effective for long-term success. We take a comprehensive approach that involves:
- In-depth medical assessments
- Careful monitoring of progress
- A focus on healthy eating, exercise, and behavior change
- Emotional and mental support to tackle challenges along the way
Our program has been proven effective in helping patients achieve and maintain their weight loss goals, making it a safe and reliable choice for anyone looking to improve their health and quality of life.
How to Get Started with Altitude’s Weight Loss Program
If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule a consultation with our expert team. Here’s how we’ll get started:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: We’ll review your health history, labs, and weight loss goals.
- Treatment Discussion: We’ll talk about medication options like Ozempic or other alternatives, and whether GLP-1s are right for you.
- Personalized Plan: Together, we’ll build a customized program that may include medication, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.
- Insurance and Pricing: We’ll check your insurance coverage and provide transparent pricing, ensuring you get the best possible value.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Weight loss doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. With the right tools, guidance, and support, you can achieve lasting results. At Altitude Family & Internal Medicine, we’re here to help you succeed in a way that’s safe, effective, and personalized.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your weight loss journey with the care and expertise you deserve.
References
- Wilding, J.P.H., et al. (2021). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989–1002.
- American Diabetes Association. (2023). Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes.
- Jastreboff, A.M., et al. (2022). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. NEJM, 387(3), 205–216.
- Wadden, T.A., et al. (2019). Behavioral treatment of obesity: Evidence-based strategies and challenges. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 109(Supplement_1), 79S–86S.
- Kushner, R.F., et al. (2020). Obesity management: Applications of the chronic care model. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 33(1), 123–131.