What if I want a weight loss pill?
We suggest researching a different program or facility that offers weight loss pills. We recommend our colleague (Melissa Pham NP). Ms. Pham has opened her own practice at a new location. Here is her contact information: Phamily Weight Wellness Center.
Why do you charge a monthly membership fee?
Our monthly fee (month 4 and beyond) is equivalent to a monthly office visit to renew medications. We choose to send prescriptions in 3 month cycles to facilitate refills. If you are using semaglutide or tirzepatide, you require professional services to have received the prescription. Patients enroll in auto draft for monthly fees if they continue the virtual program after the first 3 months.
Can I cancel the monthly membership?
Yes, any time. Patients can email us and cancel their monthly membership (also referred to as subscription or auto-draft). There is no long term commitment.
Are labs required?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide mimic natural hormones in the body. We encourage patients to continue regular visits and blood work with their PCP. We do not require labs specifically for semaglutide or tirzepatide.
I live in a different state. Can I have medications shipped to me?
Our pharmacies can ship to patients in a different state if they have a Texas address on file.
What if I have more questions?
Email Dr. Garza or Laycee directly. Allow up to 3 business days for a response (we typically respond much faster). You can call Laycee during regular business hours at 972-303-8955 ext 1. Allow up to 3 business days for callbacks.
What happens if I stop the injections?
We hope patients continue with a healthier lifestyle, good eating habits, and improved physical activity. However, as with any weight loss tool used (medication or program), patients may regain weight. Patients who stop the injections return to their “pre-injection” metabolic state.
Will I have to use the injections forever?
Most likely, yes. The injections are not just about eating less or eating healthier. Semaglutide and tirzepatide impact a neuro-hormonal pathway that helps your body process food better.
How do I start?
Fill out the new patient intake forms: jotform
When new patient forms are received, we will email you a link to complete payment ($249). Dr. Garza will review your medical history and email you directly. She will answer any questions and discuss which injectable medication is the best option for you.
How do semaglutide and tirzepatide contribute to weight loss?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide promote weight loss by reducing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and increasing feelings of fullness, leading to decreased food intake and, consequently, weight loss.
How are semaglutide and tirzepatide different?
While both are effective, tirzepatide may offer slightly greater weight loss compared to semaglutide, possibly due to its additional activity on GIP receptors. However, individual responses vary, and the choice should be based on factors like treatment goals and tolerability.
What makes them effective for weight loss compared to other medications?
Semaglutide and tirzepatide have been shown to be more effective for weight loss compared to other medications due to their unique mechanisms of action, including direct effects on appetite regulation and metabolism.
How much weight loss can I expect with semaglutide and tirzepatide treatment?
Studies have shown that treatment with semaglutide and tirzepatide can result in significant weight loss, with some individuals experiencing reductions of up to 20% or more of their initial body weight over time.
How long does it take to see noticeable weight loss with semaglutide and tirzepatide?
While individual responses may vary, many people start to see noticeable weight loss within the first few weeks of starting treatment with semaglutide and tirzepatide, with continued weight loss observed over time.
Are there any factors that may affect the amount of weight loss?
Individual factors such as baseline weight, diet, physical activity level, and adherence to treatment may influence the amount of weight loss achieved with semaglutide and tirzepatide..
How do they impact overall health?
Weight loss achieved with semaglutide and tirzepatide has been associated with improvements in cardiovascular risk factors, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity, leading to overall health benefits.
Can semaglutide & tirzepatide maintain weight long term?
Studies have shown that semaglutide and tirzepatide can help individuals not only lose weight but also maintain weight loss over the long term, making them valuable tools for sustainable weight management.
Are there any lifestyle changes recommended ?
While semaglutide and tirzepatide can promote weight loss on their own, incorporating healthy lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity and a balanced diet can enhance their effectiveness and support long-term weight management goals.
Does my insurance cover any of these medications?
Insurance may cover brands Zepbound and Wegovy if patients meet FDA and insurance requirements. We do complete PA forms. Insurance does not cover compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide. Even if listed on formulary, insurance does not cover Mounjaro or Ozempic unless patients have type 2 diabetes.
Does your office accept insurance?
No, our office does not accept insurance. We are strictly cash pay. Patients are welcome to use their insurance for brand medications or request documents for FSA/HSA reimbursement.
Do you have hidden fees?
We aim to be as transparent as possible with pricing. There are no fees for our office to complete prior PAs for Zepbound or Wegovy because they are FDA- approved for weight management. For patients requesting Mounjaro or Ozempic, weight loss is off label use. We charge $25 to complete Mounjaro or Ozempic PAs for patients without type 2 diabetes.
Is there a shortage of medication?
Brands Zepbound and Mounjaro have officially been removed from the national shortage list. Stock with Wegovy varies. Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are readily available.
What about medication from Canada?
Through legitimate pharmacies, patients can obtain brands Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro. They are slightly less expensive than brand medications in the US. We will provide the prescription and pharmacy recommendations.
Are compounded medications safe?
Our recommended pharmacies are accredited and perform third party safety studies.
Are compounded medications FDA- approved?
No, they are not FDA- approved. This means they are not regulated by the FDA. Compounding pharmacies and compounded medications are governed by state pharmacy boards. There are national entities that establish guidelines for safety.
How long does it take to receive my medication?
This depends on the pharmacy you choose. Some pharmacies have rapid turnaround time as fast as 1-3 days.
Which compounding pharmacies do you use?
We prescribe to any compounding pharmacy that accepts Texas prescribers. We use strictly independent pharmacies who set their prices and processes. Click here for a list of recommended pharmacies.