By Eric Ruiz, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, RNC-OB, Axis Health Clinic, Wilbraham, MA
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have changed the conversation around weight loss. But the medication is only one part of the story. How it's prescribed, at what dose, how quickly it's adjusted, and how closely you're supported all make a real difference in your results and your comfort along the way.
At Axis Health, we believe weight loss treatment should be built around you, not a one-size-fits-all package.
What GLP-1 Medications Do
GLP-1 medications mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar. They help you feel full sooner, reduce cravings, and slow how quickly your stomach empties. In large clinical trials, semaglutide and tirzepatide led to significant weight loss when combined with lifestyle changes (Wilding et al., 2021; Jastreboff et al., 2022).
Why Personalized Prescribing Matters
Every body responds differently. Two people starting the same medication can have very different experiences with side effects, appetite changes, and progress. A personalized approach means:
Starting at the right dose. GLP-1 medications are started low and increased gradually to help your body adjust and reduce side effects like nausea.
Adjusting based on how you're doing. If you're having side effects, we can slow things down. If you've plateaued, we can reassess.
Fitting your health history. Your medical history, other medications, and goals all shape what's appropriate and safe for you.
Ongoing check-ins. Regular follow-ups by telehealth or phone keep your plan on track and give you a chance to ask questions.
What Are Compounded Medications?
At Axis Health, our GLP-1 medications are prepared by licensed 503A compounding pharmacies. A 503A pharmacy prepares medication based on an individual prescription for a specific patient, rather than mass-producing a standard product.
It's important to know that compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by state-licensed pharmacies under a provider's prescription. That's why choosing a reputable pharmacy and working with a provider who monitors you closely matters.
Some of our formulations include added vitamins, such as semaglutide with B12 or tirzepatide or semaglutide with B6, as part of a plan tailored to the individual patient.
How It Works at Axis Health
Consultation. We start with an in-person visit to review your health history, goals, and any labs needed.
Your personalized prescription. If treatment is right for you, we prescribe a plan tailored to you.
Shipped to your door. Your medication is prepared by a licensed 503A pharmacy and mailed directly to your home.
Self-injection at home. We'll make sure you're comfortable giving your own weekly injection.
Follow-up and adjustments. We check in by telehealth or phone to monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
Please note: We do not offer in-office GLP-1 injections. All GLP-1 medications are prescribed for at-home use.
Medication Is a Tool, Not the Whole Plan
GLP-1 medications work best alongside healthy habits: eating enough protein, staying hydrated, strength training to protect muscle, and getting good sleep. We'll talk through these with you so your results last.
Who Shouldn't Use GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications aren't right for everyone. They are generally not recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN2), a history of pancreatitis, or those who are pregnant or planning pregnancy. A full health history is an important part of your consultation.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're ready for a weight loss plan built around you, call 413-515-7320 or book a consultation online. We're at 2038 Boston Road, Suite 1, in Wilbraham, inside Viola Aesthetics Day Spa.
This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved.
References
Wilding JPH, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity (STEP 1). New England Journal of Medicine. 2021;384(11):989-1002.
Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-1). New England Journal of Medicine. 2022;387(3):205-216.
US Food and Drug Administration. FDA clarifies policies for compounders as national GLP-1 supply begins to stabilize. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-alerts-and-statements/fda-clarifies-policies-compounders-national-glp-1-supply-begins-stabilize