GLP-1 Weight Management Program
GLP-1 Weight Management Program
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide (Compounded)
Program Overview
River City Rheumatology is pleased to offer a medically supervised GLP-1 weight management program using compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide. These medications can support sustainable weight loss, improved metabolic health, and can be of benefit in reducing inflammation. This program is designed to support overall wellness while maintaining safe and realistic goals.
Due to the increasing evidence supporting the potent anti-inflammatory effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), we are pleased to offer eligibility to this program to patients with normal BMI without specific weight loss goals. Monitoring weight response will remain a key part of the program and dose escalation is not anticipated.
Compounded GLP-1 vs. Brand Name GLP-1
Brand Name GLP-1 Medications
Brand name GLP-1 medications (such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Zepbound®) are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies and are FDA-approved for specific medical indications.
Compounded GLP-1 Medications
Compounded GLP-1 medications are prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy. They contain the same active medication ingredient (semaglutide or tirzepatide) but are customized in strength and dosing based on patient needs. Compounded medications are often used when brand name medications are unavailable, not covered by insurance, or when individualized dosing options are needed. Although compounded pharmacies are not FDA-regulated, they still undergo strict sterility testing. Any medication from a compounded pharmacy is considered “off-label.”
Why Use Microdosing?
At River City Rheumatology, our goal is to maintain a steady and healthy weight loss. We use a microdosing approach and typically aim for approximately 1 pound of weight loss per week.
Benefits of microdosing include:
- Reduced nausea and gastrointestinal side effects
- Improved long-term tolerance and adherence
- Lower risk of dehydration, fatigue, and rapid weight fluctuations
- Support for gradual lifestyle changes and sustainable results
- Improved preservation of muscle mass (important for joint and autoimmune health)
- Encourages steady weight loss rather than rapid, unhealthy loss
Pricing
Initial Consultation: $150
Monthly Medication Pricing:
Tirzepatide: $400-$450/month
- More expensive option
- Often associated with greater weight loss
- Many patients report fewer side effects
- Up to 20% weight loss
Semaglutide: $250-$300/month
- More affordable option
- Effective for appetite control and weight loss
- Up to 15% weight loss
Program Visit Schedule
Initial Visit:
- Initial consultation with our health care provider (most often our Nurse Practitioner): Discuss program structure in more detail, make sure you are a good candidate for GLP-1 medication, discuss side effect management and importance of resistance training, body composition scale measurement.
Follow-Up Schedule:
- Follow-up with provider after 1 month
- Ongoing provider visits every 3 months
Monthly Nurse Check-In:
Even when you are not scheduled with the provider, you will still have a monthly nurse visit for a check-in, side effect review, and monitoring.
- Review of how you are feeling and any side effects
- Weight check
- Body composition scale measurement
- Ongoing support and guidance
Provider will review this check-in and renew your prescription at an appropriate dose each month.
Insurance and Payment Information
The consultation and compounded medications are cash-pay only. Insurance typically does not cover compounded GLP-1 medications. If lab work is needed, labs may be billed through your insurance.
Important Notes
Pricing is subject to change depending on dose adjustments, medication supply, and pharmacy availability.
Contact Information
To schedule an initial consultation or request additional information, please contact River City Rheumatology at 616.320.5330 ext. 101 or via email s.roberson@aara.care
FAQs
Contact Us
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Staci at 616.320.5330 ext 101. She will be happy to answer your questions and help you take the next step toward feeling like yourself again.
