01 — The Basics
What is naturally occurring GLP-1?
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone produced in your small intestine in response to food. It plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar and appetite. Naturally, GLP-1 helps the body by:
- Stimulating insulin release when blood sugar rises after a meal.
- Inhibiting glucagon, the hormone that raises blood sugar.
- Slowing stomach emptying, leading to gradual glucose absorption and longer-lasting fullness.
- Increasing satiety by signaling the brain to reduce appetite.
02 — The Medications
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs)
Synthetic versions of GLP-1 — called GLP-1 receptor agonists — mimic the actions of the natural hormone. They are used to support:
Type 2 Diabetes
May help lower blood sugar and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Weight Management
May be used for individuals with obesity or weight-related health concerns.
Sleep Apnea
May improve symptoms via weight loss and reduced inflammation.
Single-agonist medications act on the GLP-1 receptor alone, while dual-agonist formulations act on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors — which may produce additional weight loss benefits depending on the individual.
03 — Compounded Care
What are compounded medications?
Compounded medications are customized formulations made specifically for individual treatment needs. They are prepared by state-licensed and regulated sterile compounding pharmacy partners with rigorous third-party testing.
While compounded drugs can be prescribed under federal law, they are not FDA-approved and do not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing standards. Independent testing assesses three key characteristics:
- Potency
- Sterility (injectables)
- Endotoxicity
We do not make definitive claims about how a compounded medication may or may not work. Outcomes vary, and all care is supervised by a licensed provider.
04 — Results
How much weight may patients lose?
Results vary based on the specific medication, dosage, individual response, and how well treatment is paired with lifestyle modifications like diet, supplements, sleep, and exercise. Patients in our program have seen meaningful weight loss over the first four to twelve weeks, and continued progress over time as the full effects of the program take hold.
05 — Additional Benefits
Potential additional benefits of GLP-1
- Lower blood pressure — a modest blood pressure-lowering effect.
- Reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, cardiovascular death).
- Improved glycemic control with a lower risk of hypoglycemia compared with some other diabetes medications.
Ongoing research is also exploring the role of GLP-1s in substance use and addiction, inflammatory conditions like IBD, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
06 — What to Expect
Common GLP-1 side effects
While typically mild and temporary, GLP-1 medications can cause:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue and trouble sleeping
- Mild injection site reactions
07 — Side Effect Management
How to mitigate side effects
Take ondansetron for nausea
If prescribed, take as needed and follow all instructions provided by your provider.
Exercise frequently
Short walks after eating may help digestion and accelerate weight loss progress.
Injections — administer correctly
Let the medication sit at room temperature for ten minutes before injecting. Rotate injection sites and try an ice pack if you experience discomfort. Rotating to the thigh may help with gastrointestinal symptom relief. Our program allows for splitting weekly injections into twice per week.
Oral medications — administer correctly
Take the tablet on an empty stomach and let it dissolve under the tongue with your mouth closed — do not swallow. Take it at the same time every day and don't skip a dose. Avoid water immediately before or after, brushing teeth for 45 minutes, and smoking or chewing tobacco for two hours.
08 — Our Program
What does our GLP-1 program include?
- Personalized consultation with a licensed provider
- Custom treatment plan based on your goals and health history
- Compounded GLP-1 medication options (injectable and oral)
- Ongoing care coaching and support
- Refills managed through a simple patient portal
Available both in-clinic in Westminster, CO and through our new Telehealth GLP-1 Program for patients who prefer fully virtual care.
09 — Getting Started
The sign-up process
- 1
BMI qualification
We confirm height and weight to determine program fit.
- 2
Tell us your goals
Share what you want to achieve — weight loss, energy, mental clarity, or all of the above.
- 3
Health history
We learn about your medical situation to ensure safe, personalized care.
- 4
Preferences
Choose injectable or oral options and add-on supports.
- 5
Contact info & consent
Accept telehealth, terms of use, and privacy policy.
- 6
Recommended solution
A licensed provider reviews and recommends the best path forward.
10 — Ongoing Care
How do refills work?
Refills are managed through the patient portal. For patients on an injectable medication, the refill form becomes available after the third dose. Our team reviews each refill request to make sure your plan continues to match your progress and goals.
11 — Care Coaching
What is Care Coaching?
Included in every patient's program at no additional cost, Care Coaching is one of the biggest differentiators of our program. It pairs medical treatment with structured lifestyle support across nutrition, sleep, stress, exercise, and behavior.
Optimizing Nutrition
What to eat — and what to limit — for sustainable weight loss.
Behavior & Mindset
Breaking the cycle of emotional and habitual eating.
Sleep Optimization
Tips for better sleep during weight loss.
Active Lifestyle
Cardio and strength training built around your life.
Portion Control
Practical techniques for everyday meals and eating out.
Stress & Holidays
Managing entertaining, travel, and high-pressure seasons.
