Am I a Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Loss? Eligibility Guide

Who Can Use GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are FDA-approved for adults who meet specific clinical criteria. These guidelines were established based on research showing that the medications' benefits outweigh their risks in this population.

FDA-Approved Eligibility Criteria

You may be a candidate if you meet either of the following:

Option A: BMI of 30 or higher — This classifies as obesity and qualifies you for GLP-1 treatment regardless of other health conditions.

Option B: BMI of 27 or higher plus at least one weight-related condition — Qualifying conditions include type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol (dyslipidemia), obstructive sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or osteoarthritis.

What Is BMI and How Do I Calculate Mine?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m squared). A BMI of 25-29.9 is overweight; 30-34.9 is Obesity Class I; 35-39.9 is Obesity Class II; 40 or above is severe obesity.

Who Should NOT Use GLP-1 Medications?

Absolute Contraindications

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to semaglutide or tirzepatide
• Pregnancy or active breastfeeding

Conditions Requiring Caution

• History of pancreatitis
• Severe kidney disease
• Severe GI disorders (gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease)
• Type 1 diabetes
• Taking other medications that lower blood sugar

Does Age Matter?

GLP-1 medications are FDA-approved for adults (18+). Wegovy® has also received FDA approval for adolescents aged 12 and older with obesity, though this is typically managed by pediatric specialists.

The Evaluation Process at AvataCore

Our online evaluation is simple, private, and takes about 10 minutes:

1. Health questionnaire: Answer questions about your weight history, medical conditions, medications, and goals
2. Provider review: A licensed healthcare provider reviews your information — typically within hours
3. Consultation: If appropriate, you speak with or message your provider
4. Prescription: If approved, your prescription is sent to a pharmacy and shipped to your door