GLP-1 Medications: What You Need to Know—and How DPC Makes It Personal

Ozempic, Mounjaro, and similar medications are making headlines for their dramatic effects on weight loss and diabetes management. Everyone seems to be talking about it or knows someone taking it.

But the truth is these medications aren’t for everyone, can be expensive, and require careful medical oversight. That’s where Direct Primary Care (DPC) can make all the difference.

At Mahoning Valley Direct Primary Care, we believe in individualized, relationship-based care.

Let’s break down what’s happening with GLP-1 medications and how our DPC model offers a smarter, safer, and more personal approach to managing your health.

What Are GLP-1s?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. They help regulate blood sugar, increase insulin production, and slow down digestion—leading to improved glucose control and, often, weight loss.

Popular GLP-1 Medications:

• Ozempic (semaglutide): FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes

• Wegovy (semaglutide): FDA-approved for weight loss in people with certain conditions

• Mounjaro (tirzepatide): FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes

• Zepbound (tirzepatide): FDA-approved for weight loss in patients with at least one weight related condition, and for obstructive sleep apnea

  
  

These drugs can be game-changers for some patients—but they’re not one-size-fits-all.

The Hype vs. The Reality

GLP-1s are often portrayed as miracle weight-loss injections. But there are important considerations:

• Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues are common. If you are not diabetic, you may experience drops in your blood sugar, which could be dangerous. Finally, you may be at risk of losing significant muscle mass with rapid weight loss. Patients on these medications have to be careful to make sure they are consuming adequate dietary protein and engage in an exercise program to maintain their muscle health.

  

  
  

• Long-Term Safety: We still need more data on long-term effects, especially for non-diabetic patients.

• Cost: These medications can cost nearly $1,000/month without insurance—and many insurers won’t cover them for weight loss.

• Supply Issues: Due to demand, there have been shortages in the past, making consistent treatment hard. Although many of the supply issues are currently being resolved by the manufacturers, your pharmacy may not always immediately have them in stock.

Are GLP-1s Right for You?

DPC Can Help You Decide

This is where Direct Primary Care stands out. Instead of a rushed 7 to 10-minute appointment, we offer unhurried visits, personalized evaluations, and a real relationship with your doctor. We consider:

• Your complete health history

• Underlying causes of weight gain or blood sugar problems

• Your goals, preferences, and lifestyle

• Affordable alternatives or supportive options (nutrition plans, supplements, fitness strategies)

  
  

Whether or not GLP-1 medications are part of your treatment plan, we’ll help you find a safe, sustainable path forward.

What DPC Members Get That Others Don’t

• Ongoing Monitoring: If you’re prescribed a GLP-1, we monitor your progress closely—adjusting dosing, checking labs, and managing side effects in real time, using in person visits, text messages, and emails.

• Transparent Pricing: We help you explore options, including pharmacy discounts and manufacturer offers. Recently, the manufacturers of these medications have started shipping the medications directly to the patients with a valid prescription, often at a significantly lower cost than what you would obtain through your local pharmacy.

• Lifestyle Support: These medications work best when paired with healthy habits. Because of the personalized nature of care provided, direct primary care doctors are best prepared to guide you in nutrition, sleep, and exercise strategies that actually fit your life.

It is also important that you discuss with your doctor an "exit strategy" for stopping the medication even before starting the medication. Given that we don't know the long-term side effects associated with these medications, patients who use them strictly for weight loss should not plan on using the medication indefinitely.

Therefore, having a close and direct relationship with a doctor who knows you and who you trust is imperative. Direct primary care doctors specialize in developing and nurturing such a relationship.

Conclusion: Beyond the Injection—Whole-Person Health

Ozempic and similar medications are powerful tools, but they’re not a magic fix. In a Direct Primary Care setting, you’re not just another number—you’re a partner in your own care. Whether you’re considering GLP-1s or looking for a more personalized approach to weight loss, diabetes, or general wellness, we’re here to help you make informed decisions with ongoing support.

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Curious about your options?

Schedule a free meet-and-greet with Dr Thomas Bailey—let’s talk about what’s right for you.

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