Medically reviewed by Dr. Diala Alatassi, MD
Wegovy and Zepbound are FDA-approved for chronic weight management in certain adults. Here is how eligibility is defined and what San Antonio patients can expect at a telehealth visit.
Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults who meet certain criteria. Your provider makes the final decision after reviewing your health.
FDA-labeled criteria
Both medications are indicated, with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, for adults with:
- Obesity (BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater), or
- Overweight (BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater) with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia.
Review the current labels for Wegovy and Zepbound on Drugs@FDA. Labeling can be updated, and your provider will confirm the latest.
Safety screening
Your provider will ask about conditions and situations that may make these medications inappropriate or require caution, including:
- Personal or family history of certain thyroid tumors, and certain endocrine syndromes (a boxed warning applies)
- History of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease
- Kidney problems, or severe stomach or digestive disease
- Diabetic eye disease
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or plans to become pregnant
- Other medications, especially insulin or sulfonylureas
How a San Antonio telehealth visit works
You will complete a health intake and meet with a licensed provider by secure video. If a medication is medically appropriate, your provider explains options, benefits, and risks. Prescriptions are provided only when medically appropriate. Compounded drugs are not part of our program. Learn more on TeleSlimClinicSanAntonio.com and our medications page.
Wegovy or Zepbound?
The two work differently. Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 pathway, while tirzepatide acts on both GLP-1 and GIP. In separate trials, both led to greater average weight loss than placebo (STEP 1 and SURMOUNT-1), but the trials were not head-to-head comparisons and results vary. Your provider can talk about which may fit you.
Frequently asked questions
What if my BMI is just below the cutoff?
Your provider can discuss other options and whether to reassess later.
Do I need a diagnosis to qualify?
Not if your BMI is 30 or higher. If it is 27 to under 30, at least one weight-related condition is needed.
Will my insurance pay?
Coverage varies. Our visit fee is cash-pay, and medication cost depends on your plan and pharmacy.
Is my provider licensed in Texas?
Check the Texas Medical Board lookup.
Sources
Book your free consultation to find out if treatment is right for you.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. It was medically reviewed by Dr. Diala Alatassi, MD, double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine. Talk with a licensed provider about whether any weight-loss medication is right for you.
