The medications Calibrate clinicians prescribe in our Metabolic Reset are called GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1s) or the combination medication GIP/GLPs (Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Calibrate clinicians prescribe a variety of GLP-1s, including tirzepatide, semaglutide and dulaglutide. These GLP-1s are often referred to by their brand name, so you may have heard of these medications as  Zepbound®, Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, or Foundayo®, to name a few.

All GLP-1 are clinically-tested, stimulant-free, and non-habit forming. GLP-1s address the underlying biology that is most important for weight loss, and help lower your set point, or the weight your body fights to stay at. GLP-1s are powerful, naturally-occurring hormones made by your gut that send signals to your brain to decrease your appetite, improve your metabolic system, and regulate your digestion so you can feel full longer and maximize nutrient absorption.

At Calibrate we have a team of insurance navigation experts to help you access an initial GLP-1 medication prescription that's typically around $25/month or less (after any deductible is met). We’ve helped tens of thousands of members access affordable GLP-1s. However, in the unlikely scenario that there is no path to a low-cost GLP-1 for you, 

Although medication is an important aspect of our program, medical experts agree: the combination of GLP-1 medication and lifestyle changes is the most effective approach to sustainable weight loss.

At Calibrate we have a team of insurance navigation experts to help you access an initial GLP-1 medication prescription that's typically around $25/month or less (after any deductible is met). We’ve helped tens of thousands of members access affordable GLP-1s.

Although medication is an important aspect of our program, medical experts agree: the combination of GLP-1 medication and lifestyle changes is the most effective approach to sustainable weight loss.

The GLP-1 market has evolved considerably, with increased availability and lower costs than in previous years. Although these medications can still be costly, there are now more affordable self-pay options available. During your visit, we can review these options together and determine which one may be the best fit for you.

There are several GLP-1 medications available today. Some are FDA-approved for weight management and sleep apnea, while others are approved for Type 2 diabetes and can also help with weight loss.

During your initial visit, your clinician will review your medical history, current medications, and health goals to determine which treatment options may be appropriate for you.

All GLP-1 medications can be effective, and they generally have similar benefits and side effect profiles. Your clinician will discuss the differences between the available options, answer any questions you may have, and help you choose the treatment that best fits your individual needs and medical history.

Compounded GLP-1 medications may cost less than brand-name medications, but there are some important differences to consider. These medications are not FDA-approved, which means they are not reviewed for safety, effectiveness, or quality in the same way as brand-name products. The quality and strength of compounded medications can vary between pharmacies, and the health benefits seen in studies were based on the FDA-approved versions. For those reasons, we do not prescribe compounded GLP-1 medications. 

If your insurance does not cover a GLP-1 medication, your medical team can discuss cost-effective out-of-pocket options and help you find an approach that fits your needs and budget.

Unlike other weight loss medications, GLP-1s address the underlying biology that is most important for weight loss.

Phentermine, for example, is a stimulant (an amphetamine-like analogue) that reduces hunger so that you can more easily deprive yourself of calories—but again, eating less is not a sustainable solution for weight loss. Phentermine can also cause serious side effects including headaches, increased thirst, and significant elevation in blood pressure—which can force your heart to work harder and exacerbate any existing heart conditions. 

Contrave, another popular weight loss medication, is a combination of Wellbutrin (a medicine primarily used in the treatment of depression), and naltrexone (a drug used primarily in the prevention of alcohol or opioid abuse). Like phentermine, Contrave helps to reduce appetite, but does not address the most important underlying biology of weight gain.

GLP-1s are FDA-approved, clinically-tested, stimulant-free, and non-habit forming. Not only are they safe, but research shows that they are the most effective medications for sustainable weight loss, especially when combined with lifestyle changes like on Calibrate. GLP-1s are generally very well tolerated, with limited side effects. Many individuals don’t have any side effects at all. However, for those who do, nausea is the most common, and this typically resolves over the first few weeks. In the most recent clinical trials, at the highest dose, less than 5% of people discontinued GLP-1 medications because of side effects. With direct access to your Medical Team for help with titrating and managing side effects through secure messaging, we expect even less difficulty with side effects. Your Medical Team is available throughout the program for any questions about medication side effects or other medical concerns.

Your Calibrate clinician will review your lab work, health history, and current medications during your initial video visit. They can answer any questions about medication safety and potential interactions. While GLP-1 medications are generally compatible with most common prescription medications, your clinician will evaluate your individual health profile to ensure the treatment is safe and appropriate for you.

Calibrate members lose on average 16% of their body weight at 12 months and 17% at 24 months, and 19% at 36 months per our clinically-reviewed Results Report. You can download the Calibrate Results Report here.

GLP-1 medications such as Zepbound®, Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® have experienced periodic nationwide shortages in recent years, though supply has become much more stable. If shortages occur again, we understand how frustrating it can be to have difficulty accessing your medication.

At Calibrate, medication is just one part of a comprehensive program designed to support sustainable weight loss. Our approach helps you build healthy habits that work alongside medication, so you can continue making progress even if access is temporarily interrupted.

While we cannot guarantee uninterrupted medication availability, we are committed to supporting you throughout your journey. If you are affected by a shortage, our clinical team will work with you one-on-one to explore options, which may include adjusting your dose or switching to another appropriate GLP-1 medication covered by your insurance.

Calibrate has helped thousands of members successfully navigate medication shortages while staying on track toward their health goals - check out our landing page here