Learn About Medical Weight Loss

In clinical trials, Wegovy® has been shown to be highly effective for weight loss. Participants in the trials lost an average of 15-20% of their body weight over a period of 68 weeks. However, individual results may vary. Most patients notice at least some degree of weight loss much earlier.

Zepbound® has been shown to have over 20% total body weight loss over a full course of treatment in a clinical trial.  Please note that participants were closely monitored and had nutritional assistance as well.

Compounded GLP-1 medications have not been studied for weight loss and are not evaluated by the FDA for safety nor effectiveness.

Wegovy® and Zepbound® for weight loss is FDA approved for use in adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater, or those with a BMI of 27 or greater who also have at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.

While not FDA-approved for these specific uses, GLP-1 therapy is increasingly being used to support overall wellness, reduce inflammation, and help manage inflammatory conditions. Ask us about our customized micro-dosing treatment options.

While GLP-1 medication can be highly effective for weight loss, it is important to remember that it does not cure obesity. Making healthy lifestyle changes is critical for achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss. Patients who do not change these habits will typically gain some or all of the weight back if medical weight loss is stopped. Semaglutide & Tirzepatide, however, can be a great way to kickstart body transformation and fat loss.

GLP-1 medications are generally safe and well-tolerated, with the most common side effects being mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea—often improved by eating smaller meals. Serious side effects are rare but can include pancreatitis, kidney injury (especially with dehydration), thyroid tumors, and increased risk of gallstones. Other uncommon effects may include facial fat loss, allergic reactions, elevated heart rate, or worsened mood symptoms. Most patients experience few side effects, but any concerning symptoms should be discussed with a provider immediately, and emergencies should be treated at the ER or by calling 911.

GLP-1 medications are a newer option for weight management, though this class of drugs has been FDA-approved for the treatment of diabetes for over 20 years. While they are showing promising results for weight loss, the long-term effects specifically for this use are still being studied and may not yet be fully known.

It is important to note that weight loss achieved through use of GLP-1 medication (or any other medication) alone is unlikely to be sustained over the long term without making healthy lifestyle changes. including increasing physical activity and making conscientious choices around eating.

At Flow Wellness, we are committed to making high-quality care accessible. Most commercial insurance plans — including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Oregon Health Plan — do not cover medical weight loss services. Flow Wellness is a self-pay clinic and does not directly bill insurance. If you have a plan that offers coverage for medical weight loss, please let us know — we’re happy to provide the documentation you may need to submit a claim on your own. Individuals with HSA or FSA accounts can often use these funds to cover health and wellness related treatments though. Check with your individual plan. Flow Wellness can provide receipts if necessary..

Schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced clinicians.