What to Bring to Your First GLP-1 Appointment

Walking into a GLP-1 consultation prepared does two things: it makes the appointment more efficient, and it makes a stronger case for why you're a candidate. Whether you're seeing your primary care doctor or starting with a telehealth platform, this checklist covers what you need.

Your Medical Records

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Recent lab work — A1C, fasting glucose, lipid panel (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides), liver function, kidney function. If you don't have recent labs, your doctor may order them at the appointment.

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Blood pressure readings — If you track at home, bring your log. If you've been diagnosed with hypertension, note whether it's controlled and what medication you're on.

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Sleep study results — If you've been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, this is a qualifying comorbidity. Bring documentation if available.

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Diagnosis codes — If you've been previously diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, PCOS, NAFLD/MASH, or cardiovascular disease, having that documentation strengthens your eligibility case — especially for insurance prior authorization.

Your Medication List

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All current medications — Prescription and over-the-counter, including supplements. Your doctor needs to check for drug interactions. GLP-1 medications delay gastric emptying, which can affect absorption of other oral medications.

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Thyroid medication specifically — If you take levothyroxine, flag this. Oral semaglutide has been shown to increase levothyroxine exposure by 33%, which may require dose monitoring.

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Insulin or sulfonylureas — If you take diabetes medications that can cause low blood sugar, your doctor may need to adjust doses when starting a GLP-1.

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Oral contraceptives — Delayed gastric emptying from GLP-1s can theoretically affect absorption. Worth discussing with your provider.

Your Weight History

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Your current height and weight — Know your BMI going in. The thresholds are BMI ≥ 30, or BMI ≥ 27 with a qualifying comorbidity.

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What you've tried before — Diets (calorie restriction, keto, Mediterranean, etc.), exercise programs, behavioral programs (Weight Watchers, Noom), prior medications (phentermine, metformin, naltrexone-bupropion). Document what worked, what didn't, and why you stopped.

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Timeline of weight changes — When did weight gain start? Was there a trigger (medication change, pregnancy, injury, stress)? How long have you been at your current weight?

Your Insurance Information

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Insurance card — Even if you're not sure your plan covers GLP-1 medications, bring it. Some telehealth platforms can check eligibility for you.

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Formulary information — If you can access your plan's drug formulary online, check whether Wegovy, Zepbound, or Saxenda are listed. This helps set expectations about coverage and out-of-pocket costs.

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Prior authorization awareness — Most plans that cover GLP-1s for weight loss require prior authorization. Your doctor's office typically handles this, but knowing it's coming helps you plan for potential delays.

Questions to Ask

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"Which GLP-1 do you recommend for me, and why?" — Semaglutide vs. tirzepatide, injectable vs. oral, brand-name vs. compounded — your provider should be able to explain their rationale.

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"What's the titration schedule?" — All GLP-1s start at a low dose and increase gradually. Know how long until you reach the full dose.

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"What side effects should I expect, and when should I call?" — Mild nausea is normal. Persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or signs of pancreatitis are not.

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"How will we monitor my progress?" — Ask about follow-up frequency, lab monitoring, and how dosage adjustments will be handled.

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"What's my total out-of-pocket cost?" — Medication cost, consultation fees, lab work, follow-up visits. Get the full picture before you start.

For Telehealth Appointments Specifically

If you're doing a virtual consultation, a few extra things to prepare:

Take your own measurements first — Height, weight, waist circumference. Many telehealth platforms rely on self-reported data
Upload labs in advance if possible — Some platforms let you submit medical records before the consultation. This saves time and lets the provider review before your visit
Know your state — Telehealth providers must be licensed in the state where you're physically located. Confirm the platform operates in your state before booking
Have a valid ID ready — Most telehealth platforms require identity verification