What is Semaglutide?
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Semaglutide is a GLP-1 medication used to support weight loss and improve metabolic health.
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It works by slowing digestion, reducing appetite, and helping you feel full longer — making it easier to eat less without feeling deprived.
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Semaglutide has been widely studied and is commonly used as part of a medically guided weight loss program.
Dosage & Frequency
GLP-1 medications are self-administered via a once-weekly injection. Your provider will start you on a low maintenance dose and suggest gradual increases to ensure your body adapts comfortably.
Metabolic Health
Beyond weight loss, these medications support insulin sensitivity, help manage blood sugar levels, and can improve cardiovascular risk factors, promoting overall metabolic longevity and wellness.
What Are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
What is Tirzepatide?
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Tirzepatide is a medication used for medical weight loss that works by helping regulate appetite, blood sugar, and how your body processes food.
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It targets two key hormone pathways (GLP-1 and GIP), which can help reduce hunger, improve fullness, and support steady, sustainable weight loss over time.
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When prescribed and monitored appropriately, Tirzepatide can be a highly effective tool as part of a personalized weight management plan.
Guided Support
Success is more than just medication. We provide ongoing monitoring, nutritional guidance, and lifestyle coaching to ensure you achieve sustainable results and maintain your progress long-term.
Eligibility Criteria
GLP-1–based therapies are generally recommended for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 with weight-related health conditions. Your provider will evaluate your full medical history to determine what is safe and appropriate for you.
Who Should Not Take These Medications
Certain Endocrine and Thyroid Cancer
- Personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Uncontrolled endocrine conditions
Gastrointestinal & Organ Health
- History of pancreatitis
- Severe gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., severe gastroparesis)
- History of severe gallbladder disease
Other Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Allergy to Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, or any ingredients
- Active suicidal ideation or severe depression
Final eligibility is determined after a full medical review with your provider. Safety is our priority, and we ensure these treatments are right for your unique health profile.
Common Questions, Answered
Where are you located?
Zolara Health is a Connecticut-based telehealth practice currently serving patients located in Connecticut and Massachusetts. All visits are conducted virtually.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for GLP-1 treatment?
You may be a good candidate if you have a BMI ≥ 30, or a BMI ≥ 27 with weight-related conditions (such as high blood pressure, prediabetes, or PCOS). GLP-1 treatment is ideal for those who have struggled with weight loss despite diet and lifestyle changes and are motivated to make sustainable progress.
What medications do you offer?
Zolara Health provides access to evidence-based medical weight loss treatments, including GLP-1–based medications when clinically appropriate. ​ We also assist with brand-name options such as Wegovy and Zepbound when covered by insurance, including prior authorization support when needed. ​ Zolara Health provides medical care and coordinates your treatment plan, including prescription and pharmacy coordination.Medications, if prescribed, are dispensed by licensed pharmacies. Zolara Health does not operate as a pharmacy.
Where does the medication come from?
Medications are prescribed by your provider and dispensed by a licensed U.S. pharmacy. The pharmacy handles fulfillment and shipping directly to you. We work with reputable pharmacies, including licensed compounding pharmacies when appropriate, to ensure safe and compliant access. For brand medications, prescriptions may be sent to a local pharmacy of your choice.
Will I be guaranteed medication?
No. All patients undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation. Prescriptions are only provided if clinically appropriate and safe for your specific medical history.
How quickly will I see results?
Many patients notice appetite changes within the first few weeks. Consistent weight loss typically begins around 4–8 weeks, with more significant results over 3–6 months as your body adjusts to the medication.
What happens after I reach my goal weight?
Once reached, we develop a maintenance plan which may include adjusting your dose, transitioning off medication if appropriate, and providing ongoing lifestyle and nutrition support to ensure long-term success.
Who should NOT take GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for those with a family history of medullary thyroid cancer, a history of pancreatitis, or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. We review your full medical history to ensure your safety.
Who will I be seeing? Do you have a supervising physician?
You'll be working directly with me, Stephanie, a Physician Assistant with over 11 years of clinical experience in gastroenterology and emergency medicine, as well as recent training in obesity medicine management. I am also completing more than 60 hours of advanced education in obesity medicine and will soon earn my Advanced Education of Obesity Medicine certificate.​  Zolara is designed to feel personal, supportive, and accessible so you’ll always know who you’re talking to. ​  Is there a supervising physician involved?  Yes. Zolara operates under the supervision of a licensed physician in accordance with state regulations.  This collaborative model ensures that your care is both safe and aligned with best medical practices.
Do you guarantee insurance approval?
No insurance approval depends on your individual plan.​ What happens if my insurance denies the medication? If your medication is not approved, we’ll go over alternative options with you including compounded medications so you’re never left without a plan, your consult fee will be applied to compounded if applicable.insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications guaranteed?No. Coverage for medications such as Wegovy or Zepbound is not guaranteed and varies widely by individual insurance plan. Many plans do not cover weight loss medications, and others may require prior authorization or specific clinical criteria.If a brand medication is approved, the final out-of-pocket cost will still depend on your individual insurance plan, deductible, copay, and pharmacy benefits. Approval does not guarantee that the medication will be affordable. Please reach out to your insurance company to discuss coverage prior to booking.​Prior authorizations are only submitted when clinically appropriate and medically indicated. Insurance coverage and approval are not guaranteed. Even if a brand medication is approved, out-of-pocket cost will vary based on your individual plan, deductible, copay, and pharmacy benefits.
What are compounded medications?
Compounded medications are prescription medications that are prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy to meet an individual patient's specific medical needs. Compounded medications are not mass-manufactured and may be prescribed when deemed clinically appropriate by a licensed healthcare provider.
Are compounded medications FDA-approved?
- No. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Compounded medications are prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies and are regulated under federal and state pharmacy laws. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of any prescribed medication with their healthcare provider.
Why might a provider prescribe a compounded medication?
- A provider may determine that a compounded medication is an appropriate treatment option based on an individual's medical history, treatment goals, medication availability, or other clinical considerations. Treatment decisions are made on a case-by-case basis following a medical evaluation.
How are compounded medications obtained through Zolara Health?
- If treatment is determined to be clinically appropriate, prescriptions may be sent to a licensed pharmacy partner. The pharmacy is responsible for preparing and dispensing medications and arranging shipment directly to the patient when applicable.
Are compounded medications safe? Like all medications, compounded medications carry potential risks and benefits. Patients should carefully review all medication information provided by the pharmacy and discuss any questions or concerns with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Safety & Side Effects
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. While GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are generally well-tolerated, it is normal to experience mild side effects as your body adjusts. Most common symptoms typically resolve within a few weeks as we gradually manage your dosage.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Fatigue or mild dizziness
- Changes in bowel habits
- Acid reflux or bloating
Serious Side Effects
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Vision changes or acute distress
When to Seek Care
If you experience any serious symptoms listed above, please contact your provider immediately through the patient portal. For life-threatening emergencies or severe, acute distress, please call 911 or visit the nearest urgent care facility or emergency room.