GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss
Improve your overall health with a GLP-1 Agonist
Semaglutide, a specific type of GLP-1 medication, is the most commonly used GLP-1 agent in weight loss care, with a 300% growth in GLP-1 use within two years.
GLP-1 Medication Is A Proven Weight Loss Aid By Clinical Studies
At Stages of Life Medical Institute in Longwood, Florida, we help patients across Central Florida lose weight safely with physician-led care. Under Dr. David Klein, MD, FACA, FACPM (practicing since 1983), we use evidence-based therapies - including GLP-1 drugs - within personalized plans that integrate nutrition, movement, sleep, and behavior support.
When we talk about GLP-1 receptor agonists, it’s important to understand that these medications serve two distinct patient populations: individuals with type 2 diabetes (or pre-diabetes) and individuals whose primary goal is weight management, sometimes without a formal diabetes diagnosis.
While GLP-1 drugs started as a medication specifically for diabetics, many are now using the drug for weight loss due to successful clinical trials. In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, 1,961 adults achieved significantly greater mean weight loss than placebo. New studies highlight other potential benefits of GLP-1 drugs. At the 2025 American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) meeting, Novo Nordisk presented study findings that GLP-1 medications have liver health-related benefits.
GLP-1 Medication Is A Proven Weight Loss Aid By Clinical Studies
Ozempic (Semaglutide) Has Grown To Account For 65.4% Of All GLP-1 Prescriptions
With the rise of GLP-1, more people are experiencing its benefits. The primary benefit of GLP-1 medication is clinically meaningful weight loss. In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, 1,961 adults achieved significantly greater mean weight loss than placebo.
GLP-1s act on brain satiety centers to reduce hunger and help patients feel full on smaller portions - often the first change our patients notice in the first few weeks.
Beyond weight loss, the New England Journal of Medicine study found favorable shifts in blood pressure, waist circumference, and other biomarkers - translating into reduced major cardiovascular events.
How GLP-1 Agonists Are Taken
Most GLP-1 medications are injections using a fine needle and a prefilled pen. Depending on the drug, doses are once weekly (common for semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight management) or once daily (Liraglutide).
There’s also a tablet option (oral semaglutide) for certain indications. In our Longwood clinic, we teach injection technique, site rotation, storage, and what to expect in the first few weeks. If necessary, we will adjust the dose to balance results and tolerability.
Most patients begin to see weight loss results within 8 to 12 weeks of starting the GLP-1 drug. However, greater losses typically accumulate over 6 to 12 months when the drug is paired with lifestyle change.
We Are Dedicated To Improving And Preserving A High Quality Of Life
You can finally say goodbye to stubborn weight, enhancing your everyday life, mobility, and overall health.
Avoid Unsafe Drugs
We help you avoid unsafe online products (including unapproved/compounded versions) and select FDA-approved GPL-1 medication aligned with your medical history.
Comfort In Nationwide Access
You can use any lab in the U.S. for the blood draw and have specimens shipped to Stages of Life for processing. Baseline labs include A1C, fasting glucose/insulin, lipid profile, liver/renal function, and thyroid function.
Extensive Follow-Ups
Our follow-up lowers the risk of complications (such as gallbladder issues from rapid loss) and allows timely dose adjustments.
Ideal Candidate Identification
If your BMI is greater than or equal to 30 kg/m, you qualify for GLP-1. You can qualify with a lower BMI if you have other health issues.
Weight Gain Prevention
Patients who discontinue GLP-1s are at significantly higher risk of regaining weight within a year. We come up with a game plan to deter this.
Secure In Their Privacy
For an additional $150, Dr. Klein can keep your report confidential and off insurance records (a private pay service so results aren't visible to insurers or employers).
Why Choose Stages Of Life For Your GLP-1 Journey?
If you’re considering GLP-1 treatment for weight loss, choosing the right provider is critical. Stages of Life Institute, led by Dr. David Klein, offers a medically supervised, patient-first approach that prioritizes safety, results, and long-term wellness.
Here’s why this clinic stands out as the premier choice.
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Led by Dr. David Klein, a trusted medical authority with decades of clinical experience in hormone health, metabolism, and functional medicine.
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Personalized treatment protocols, not one-size-fits-all prescriptions—your plan is tailored to your biology, medical history, and goals.
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Comprehensive diagnostic testing to uncover metabolic, hormonal, and nutritional factors that influence weight loss success.
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Close, ongoing medical supervision to monitor progress, manage dosage, and prevent side effects for safer long-term use.
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Integrated follow-up care to ensure weight maintenance, prevent regain, and transition patients into long-term wellness plans.
Safe, Effective Weight Loss Support
We help you avoid unsafe online products (including unapproved/compounded versions) and select FDA-approved GPL-1 medication aligned with your medical history. Our follow-up lowers the risk of complications (such as gallbladder issues from rapid loss) and allows timely dose adjustments.
What to Expect in the First 7 to 12 Weeks of GLP-1
1 - 2 Weeks
Appetite decreases; smaller portions feel satisfying. Mild nausea may occur after larger or high-fat meals—often managed by slower eating and portion adjustments.
3 - 6 Weeks
Steadier digestion; early weight changes become visible. We assess hydration, protein intake, and fiber to keep energy up.
7 - 12 Weeks
Dose reaches maintenance range; weight loss generally accelerates if lifestyle changes are consistent. We review labs (A1c, lipids) and discuss activity goals suited to your joints and schedule.
Post GLP-1 Treatment
According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association Network, patients who discontinue GLP-1s are at significantly higher risk of regaining weight within a year.
Because of this, we emphasize that GLP-1 therapy is not simply a “diet pill” but rather a medically supervised intervention that must be paired with behavior change, nutritional adaptation, and follow-up monitoring.
This keeps the weight off long-term.
FAQ
How quickly will I lose weight on GLP-1 medication?
Most patients begin to see weight loss results within 8 to 12 weeks of starting the GLP-1 drug. However, greater losses typically accumulate over 6 to 12 months when the drug is paired with lifestyle change.
Will my insurance cover GLP-1 weight-loss drugs?
Coverage varies widely for GLP-1 drugs. If it’s being used for a diabetes indication, your GLP-1 is more likely to be covered. For weight-only indications, prior authorization is often needed.
Do I need to have diabetes to take a GLP-1 for weight loss?
No. Some GLP-1 formulations are approved specifically for weight management in individuals without diabetes. Whether you have diabetes or not, candidacy depends on BMI and health status.
What diet should I follow while on GLP-1 medication?
You should follow a diet rich in lean protein, fiber, vegetables, and whole grains while on GLP-1 medication. It’s okay to eat healthy fats in moderation, while also minimizing your intake of processed sugars and high-calorie snacks.
Are GLP-1 injections available locally in Florida pharmacies?
Yes. Approved injectable drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic are available via prescription at Florida pharmacies. Our clinic coordinates initiation, dose escalations, and refills for Central Florida patients.
Can I combine GLP-1 drugs with other medications?
Yes, under physician supervision, you can combine GLP-1 drugs with other medications. We carefully review medications for diabetes, lipids, blood pressure, etc., to avoid conflicting effects.