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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which states are you certified to practice?
    While we practice primarily out of Illinois, our providers are licensed to treat patients located in Wisconsin, Illinois, and Florida.
  • How do virtual consultations work?
    Our virtual/video consultations provide the same personalized care as in-person visits, but are done from the comfort of your home. You will be sent a zoom video link via email which will connect you virtually to your provider at your scheduled time.
  • What is GLP1/GIP?
    GLP1s are medications approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) for the treatment of obesity. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by regulating appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist is another medication that has an additional mechanism of action. Studies have shown that GLP1/GIP may lead to greater weight loss.
  • Who is a candidate for medical weight loss treatment?
    These medications are typically prescribed for adults with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. However, BMI is not always an accurate measurement, and is not a hard line for treatment.
  • How is injectable medical wight loss medication administered?
    GLP1s and GIPs are weight loss shots which are self-administered as a once-weekly injection into the subcutaneous tissue (fat) of the abdomen or inner thigh. The dosage may vary depending on individual patient needs and tolerance.
  • Where will my medication come from?
    Your medication will come from a high-quality, compounding pharmacy. These pharmacies prepare medications in sterile pharmacies that are licensed by their State Board of Pharmacy, or FDA-licensed facilities. By using compounding pharmacies, we can safely provide you with the medication for your treatment, without costing you thousands of dollars for the brand name version.
  • How much weight will I lose?
    Weight loss varies from person to person, and is dependent on multiple factors. Clinical trials have shown that Semaglutide/Tirzepatide lead to significant weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. Over 12 weeks, patients may see a weight loss of 10-15% of their initial body weight with Semaglutide and upwards of 20-25% with Tirzepatide. Healthy weight loss is defined as 1-2 lb/wk.
  • What are the potential side effects?
    The potential side effects associated with Semaglutide and Tirzepatide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. In some cases, it can also cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in individuals with diabetes. Rare but serious side effects may include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. Tirzepatide is often better tolerated.
  • Is there anyone that can't use GLP1/GIP medications?
    The following are contraindications for injectable weight loss medications which will make the individual ineligible for this treatment. Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma OR Family History MEN 2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2) Hypersensitivity Diabetes Type 1 Suicide Ideation Pancreatitis Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
  • Can I use insurance?
    Archer Weight and Wellness is a fee for service practice which means we do not accept insurance. Often times these medications are not covered by insurance and by functioning on a cash-pay system, we are better able to offer weight loss services to clients at a more affordable cost. Please view our services and pricing page for more details.
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