FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions | Fast Medical Weight Loss
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Frequently Asked Questions

Physician-reviewed answers to the most common questions about our program, medications, pricing, and more.

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Getting Started

Most adults with a BMI of 27 or higher may be eligible — especially those with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea. Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher may qualify without a comorbidity.

Eligibility is always determined by a licensed physician during your online consultation — not by this website. Certain medical histories or current medications may affect eligibility. Your physician will review your full intake form before prescribing anything.

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The process is fully online and asynchronous — you don't need to schedule a live video appointment. Here's how it works:

  • You complete a detailed health intake form covering your medical history, current medications, goals, and relevant labs.
  • A licensed physician reviews your intake and determines whether a GLP-1 medication is clinically appropriate for you.
  • If approved, your prescription is sent to a licensed pharmacy and shipped directly to your address.
  • You typically receive a physician response within 24 hours on business days.

If additional information is needed, your physician may send follow-up questions through the secure patient portal before completing the evaluation.

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We currently serve patients in all 50 U.S. states. Our physician network includes licensed providers in each state, so you will always be evaluated by a physician who is licensed to prescribe in your state of residence.

You must be physically located in the United States at the time of your consultation and when your prescription is filled.

No referral is needed. You can start the intake process directly through our website without a referral from another provider.

Prior lab work is not required to begin, but if you have recent results — particularly HbA1c, lipid panel, or thyroid function tests — uploading them can help your physician make a more informed evaluation. Your physician may request labs before prescribing in certain cases.

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Once your physician approves your prescription, it is transmitted to the dispensing pharmacy within 1 business day. Shipping typically takes 3–5 business days via standard carrier, though expedited shipping options may be available at checkout.

Total time from completing your intake to receiving your first shipment is typically 5–7 business days, assuming no additional clinical information is required.

Yes, and we encourage it. We are not designed to replace your primary care provider — we are a focused telehealth service specializing in weight management. Many of our patients continue seeing their regular physician for other health needs.

We recommend informing your primary care physician that you are starting a GLP-1 medication so they can note it in your records and monitor any relevant conditions (such as blood sugar levels in diabetic patients).

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Patients with type 2 diabetes may be strong candidates for GLP-1 medications, which have FDA-approved indications for both glycemic control and weight management. However, managing diabetes alongside a GLP-1 requires careful coordination — particularly if you are currently taking insulin or sulfonylureas, which can increase hypoglycemia risk when combined with a GLP-1.

Our physicians are experienced in evaluating patients with type 2 diabetes. Your physician will review your current diabetes medications and HbA1c as part of the consultation. We strongly recommend continuing to work with your endocrinologist or primary care physician if you have diabetes.

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Medications

We specialize in GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for weight management. The medications currently available through our program include:

  • Semaglutide — the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, available as a weekly subcutaneous injection
  • Tirzepatide — the active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, also a weekly injection

The specific formulation, dose, and titration schedule are determined by your prescribing physician based on your health history and goals. Medication availability may vary by state and is subject to pharmacy stock.

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We work with licensed compounding pharmacies to provide compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide. Compounded medications contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredient as the brand-name drugs but are not FDA-approved products themselves — they are prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy under applicable pharmacy regulations.

Compounding allows us to offer these medications at a significantly lower cost than branded versions. All pharmacies in our network are licensed and comply with applicable state pharmacy board regulations and USP standards.

If you have a strong preference for FDA-approved brand-name medications, please discuss this with your physician during the consultation.

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Both semaglutide and tirzepatide are administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous (under-the-skin) injection. The injection is self-administered at home using a small needle — similar to how insulin is injected.

Your shipment includes detailed injection instructions, and your care team can answer any questions about technique through the patient portal. Common injection sites include the abdomen, outer thigh, or upper arm.

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A titration schedule is a structured plan to gradually increase your dose over several weeks or months. Starting at a low dose and increasing slowly allows your body to adjust to the medication, which significantly reduces the severity of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea.

Your physician will prescribe a specific titration schedule based on your starting health status and tolerance. A typical schedule begins with a low starting dose for 4 weeks, with increases every 4 weeks as tolerated, up to a maintenance dose. You should not skip ahead in your titration schedule without physician guidance.

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Semaglutide and tirzepatide should be stored in a refrigerator at 36°F–46°F (2°C–8°C). Do not freeze. Keep the medication away from direct light and heat.

If your medication accidentally freezes or has been kept out of refrigeration for an extended period, contact your care team before using it. Do not use medication that appears discolored, cloudy, or contains particles.

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No. GLP-1 medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Current FDA labeling advises that semaglutide and tirzepatide should be discontinued at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy due to the potential for fetal harm based on animal study data.

If you become pregnant while taking one of these medications, discontinue it immediately and contact your OB/GYN. Do not restart without explicit physician clearance after delivery and cessation of breastfeeding.

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If you miss a dose and it has been fewer than 5 days since your scheduled injection day, take the missed dose as soon as possible and resume your regular weekly schedule. If it has been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose entirely and take your next dose on your usual scheduled day.

Do not take two doses within the same week to make up for a missed injection. Contact your care team if you miss multiple doses in a row, as your physician may adjust your titration plan.

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GLP-1 medications can slow gastric emptying, which may affect the absorption timing of oral medications. Patients taking oral medications that require precise absorption timing — such as certain thyroid medications (levothyroxine) or antibiotics — should discuss this with their physician.

Particular caution is warranted for patients taking insulin or sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide), as GLP-1 medications lower blood sugar and the combination increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Dose adjustments of diabetes medications are commonly needed.

Always disclose all current medications, supplements, and herbal products in your intake form. Your physician will identify any clinically significant interactions before prescribing.

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Pricing & Plans

Program pricing varies based on the medication prescribed, your dosage, and whether you select a monthly or quarterly plan. Our pricing is published on the Pricing page and is updated regularly to reflect current pharmacy costs.

Pricing includes the physician consultation, medication (compounded), and ongoing care team support. There are no hidden fees. The initial consultation is free — you only pay if your physician approves your prescription and you choose to proceed.

We currently operate as a cash-pay service and do not bill insurance directly. Compounded medications are generally not covered by insurance plans, which is part of why their cost is lower than branded alternatives.

Some patients with HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) plans may be able to use those funds for this program. We recommend checking with your plan administrator. We can provide an itemized receipt upon request.

There is no long-term contract. You can cancel your subscription at any time before your next billing cycle. Monthly plans renew monthly; quarterly plans renew every three months.

We recommend a minimum of 3–6 months on the program to see meaningful and stable results, but this is a clinical recommendation — not a contractual requirement.

The free consultation includes a complete physician review of your health intake form, a clinical eligibility determination, and a medication recommendation if appropriate. You are not charged anything for this evaluation.

You only pay once you review the prescription and pricing details and actively choose to proceed with the program. There is no obligation to purchase after the consultation.

Many patients use HSA or FSA funds to pay for our program. GLP-1 medications prescribed for weight management by a licensed physician are generally considered a qualified medical expense, but HSA/FSA eligibility rules can vary by plan administrator and plan year.

We recommend verifying eligibility with your HSA/FSA administrator before using those funds. We can provide an itemized receipt and a letter of medical necessity upon request to support your claim.

Because compounded medications are prepared specifically for each patient and cannot be restocked or resold, we are unable to accept returns of dispensed medication or offer refunds once a prescription has been shipped.

If your physician does not approve your prescription, you will not be charged. If you cancel your subscription before the next billing cycle renewal, you will not be charged for that cycle. For billing questions or disputes, contact our support team through the patient portal.

Side Effects & Results

The most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal and include:

  • Nausea (most common, especially in the first weeks of use or after a dose increase)
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort or bloating
  • Reduced appetite or early satiety

These side effects are most pronounced during dose titration and typically improve significantly after 4–8 weeks as your body adjusts. Eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding high-fat foods can help manage nausea during this period.

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Yes. While serious adverse events are uncommon, you should be aware of the following:

  • Pancreatitis: Cases of acute pancreatitis have been reported. Seek emergency care if you experience severe, persistent abdominal pain.
  • Thyroid tumors: Animal studies showed an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. GLP-1 medications are contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • Gallbladder disease: Cholelithiasis (gallstones) and cholecystitis have been reported, possibly related to rapid weight loss.
  • Hypoglycemia: Risk is elevated in patients also taking insulin or sulfonylureas.

This is not a complete list. Your physician will review your specific risk factors as part of the consultation. Always read the full medication guide provided with your prescription.

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Clinical trial results vary by medication and individual patient factors. Published trial data shows the following average weight reductions at maximum dose over 68–72 weeks:

  • Semaglutide (STEP 1 trial): Average body weight reduction of approximately 14.9% in non-diabetic adults
  • Tirzepatide (SURMOUNT-1 trial): Average body weight reduction of approximately 20.9% at the highest dose (15mg) in non-diabetic adults

These are population averages from clinical trials under controlled conditions. Individual results vary significantly based on starting weight, dose reached, dietary habits, physical activity, and individual metabolic response. These figures should not be interpreted as a guaranteed outcome.

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Most patients begin noticing reduced appetite within the first 1–2 weeks of treatment, even at starting doses. Measurable weight loss typically becomes apparent within the first 4–8 weeks, though individual timelines vary.

The most significant weight loss typically occurs once you reach a higher maintenance dose — which takes several months of gradual titration. Patients who also make dietary changes and increase physical activity generally see faster and more sustained results.

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Clinical trial data consistently shows that a significant portion of weight lost while taking GLP-1 medications is regained after discontinuation — typically within 12–18 months. This reflects the chronic nature of obesity, which requires long-term treatment for sustained results.

Stopping the medication should be a clinical decision made with your physician, not done abruptly on your own. If you are considering stopping, discuss a plan with your care team — including whether a gradual dose reduction or transition strategy is appropriate for your situation.

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Rapid weight loss from any cause — including GLP-1 medications — can result in loss of lean muscle mass in addition to fat. Clinical trials suggest that a meaningful percentage of total weight lost on GLP-1 medications may come from lean tissue, though the proportion varies by study.

To minimize muscle loss, physicians generally recommend: adequate protein intake (typically 1.2–1.6g per kg of body weight daily), resistance training at least 2–3 times per week, and avoiding very rapid calorie restriction beyond what the medication naturally produces. Discuss a specific nutrition strategy with your care team.

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Account & Privacy

Yes. We are a HIPAA-covered entity and treat all patient health information as protected health information (PHI) under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Your health data is encrypted in transit and at rest, and is accessible only to the clinical personnel involved in your care.

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal health information with advertisers, data brokers, or third parties not involved in your clinical care or treatment. You can review our full Privacy Policy for details on how your information is used and your rights as a patient.

All communication with your care team takes place through the secure patient portal in your account. You can send messages, ask clinical questions, upload photos of injection sites, or request dosage adjustments directly through the portal.

Our care team typically responds within 1–2 business days. For urgent medical concerns — including severe side effects or potential allergic reactions — please contact emergency services or go to your nearest emergency department rather than waiting for a portal response.

You can cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings in the patient portal. Cancellations must be submitted before the next billing cycle begins to avoid being charged for that cycle. You will continue to have access to your current prescription supply through the end of your paid period.

If you have difficulty canceling through the portal, contact our support team and we will process the cancellation for you within 1 business day.

Yes. As a patient, you have the right to access and receive a copy of your medical records under HIPAA. You can request your records through the patient portal or by contacting our support team. We will fulfill records requests within 30 days as required by law.

Records provided include your intake history, physician notes, prescription records, and any clinical communications. There is no charge for records provided in electronic format.

Canceling your subscription does not automatically delete your account or medical records. We retain your health records in accordance with applicable state medical records retention laws, which typically require retention for a minimum of 7 years from the date of last service.

You may request deletion of non-clinical personal data (such as billing information or account credentials) by contacting our privacy team. Clinical records required to be retained by law cannot be deleted before their mandated retention period.