GLP-1 Medications
Understanding GLP-1 Medications
Wegovy® (semaglutide) • Zepbound® (tirzepatide) • Saxenda® (liraglutide)
What are GLP-1 medications?
Glucagon-like peptide-1, or GLP-1, is a naturally occurring hormone that is produced in the gut and plays a key role in regulating appetite, digestion, and blood sugar levels. GLP-1 medications are prescription medications that can support weight loss by working with the body’s natural appetite-regulating pathways. They can help reduce hunger, increase feelings of fullness, and slow digestion, making it easier to manage portions and maintain a reduced-calorie eating plan.
FDA-approved medications such as Wegovy®, Zepbound®, and Saxenda® may be prescribed for eligible patients as part of a comprehensive medical weight-management program. Your provider will review your health history, goals, and individual risk factors to determine whether one of these medications may be appropriate for you.
Brand-Name vs. Compounded GLP-1 Medications
During previous medication shortages, compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide became more widely available as alternatives to FDA-approved brand-name medications. Since those shortages have been resolved, routine compounding of commercially available GLP-1 medications is now much more restricted.
At Mattera Wellness, our focus is on FDA-approved weight-loss medications, including Wegovy® and Zepbound®, whenever clinically appropriate. We’ll work with you to determine which treatment option best fits your health goals.
Do We Accept Insurance?
Mattera Wellness is a cash-pay practice and does not bill insurance for provider visits or program fees. This allows us to keep your care simple, transparent, and personalized, with more time focused on you rather than insurance requirements. While our services are self-pay, your prescription medication may still be covered by your pharmacy insurance benefits, depending on your individual plan. If a GLP-1 medication such as Wegovy® or Zepbound® is not covered or is outside your budget, we can discuss other appropriate, more affordable medical weight-loss options based on your health history and goals.