GLP-1 therapy is medical weight loss treatment using prescription medications that mimic a natural gut hormone — reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and quieting food noise — producing steady weight loss without extreme dieting.
How it works
The three things GLP-1 medications do at once.
01
Quiet appetite signals
GLP-1 activates receptors in the brain that regulate hunger. The intrusive food thoughts fade. Most patients describe it as "finally being able to think about anything else."
02
Slow gastric emptying
Food stays in your stomach longer before moving to your intestines, so a normal meal keeps you full for hours instead of minutes.
03
Stabilize blood sugar
GLP-1 improves how your body handles insulin, eliminating the sugar crashes that drive afternoon cravings and binge cycles.
The medications
Two medications. Different strengths.
Ozempic · Wegovy
Semaglutide
Single-pathway GLP-1 agonist. The most-prescribed weight loss medication in the U.S. Weekly injection with a well-established safety and efficacy profile. Typical results: 10–15% body weight loss over 12+ months.
Dual-pathway (GLP-1 + GIP) agonist. The newer, stronger medication — SURMOUNT-1 trial showed 15–22.5% body weight loss over 72 weeks. Best for higher weight-loss goals or when semaglutide plateaus.
Not everyone is a candidate. The general criteria are simple, but our medical team makes the final call after reviewing your full history.
BMI ≥ 30OR BMI ≥ 27 with a weight-related condition (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, etc.).
Adult (18+)and able to self-administer a weekly injection or receive it in clinic.
Not eligibleif you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, MEN2 syndrome, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.
GLP-1 therapy near you
Looking for glp-1 therapy near you?
We're the closest doctor-supervised glp-1 therapy clinic to most of the Twin Cities. Whether you're searching for a GLP-1 clinic near me, weight loss injection near me, or medical weight loss near me or a general weight loss doctor near you, we're a 5–20 minute drive.
Have a question we didn't cover? See our full FAQ or call us — one of our team will actually answer.
What is GLP-1 therapy?
GLP-1 therapy is medical weight loss treatment using a class of prescription medications that mimic a natural hormone (glucagon-like peptide-1) your gut releases after eating. The medication activates GLP-1 receptors to reduce appetite, slow digestion, and stabilize blood sugar — producing steady, sustainable weight loss without extreme dieting. The two medications most commonly prescribed are semaglutide and tirzepatide.
How does GLP-1 medication work for weight loss?
GLP-1 medications work in three ways: they signal your brain that you're full (reducing hunger), slow the rate food leaves your stomach (keeping you satisfied longer), and stabilize blood sugar (eliminating cravings and energy crashes). Tirzepatide adds a second mechanism (GIP activation) that further enhances weight loss. Most patients report that the constant "food noise" quiets within the first few weeks.
Who is a good candidate for GLP-1 therapy?
Adults with a BMI of 30+ or a BMI of 27+ with weight-related health conditions (like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol) are typically good candidates. GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Our medical team reviews your full health history during your free consultation.
How long does it take to see results with GLP-1?
Most patients notice reduced appetite within 1–2 weeks of starting. Measurable weight loss usually begins by weeks 4–8 as the dose steps up. Clinical trials show peak weight loss occurs around month 12–18. At Regner Health Solutions, our patients have reported losing 15–50+ lbs over their first 6 months.
What are the side effects of GLP-1 medications?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal — nausea, reduced appetite, occasional constipation or diarrhea — especially during the first few weeks and after each dose increase. These typically fade as your body adjusts. Weekly check-ins with our medical team let us slow the dose ramp or adjust timing if you need it.
How much does GLP-1 therapy cost?
Cost varies based on insurance coverage, dose, and medication. Some commercial plans cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss; others limit coverage to diabetes indications. We offer transparent cash-pay options, and provide a price match guarantee if you find a lower quote elsewhere. Contact us for a personalized estimate.
Is GLP-1 therapy safe long term?
GLP-1 medications have been studied and used for over 15 years — originally for type 2 diabetes, more recently for weight management. Long-term data from ongoing studies continues to support their safety profile. Under proper medical supervision (weekly check-ins, dose management, side-effect monitoring), GLP-1 therapy is considered a safe long-term treatment for chronic weight management.
Do I have to be on GLP-1 medication forever?
Obesity is a chronic condition. For many patients, GLP-1 therapy is a long-term treatment — similar to blood pressure or cholesterol medication. Some patients maintain their weight loss at a reduced maintenance dose. Others taper off successfully after establishing new habits. Our medical team develops a long-term plan with you rather than a temporary prescription.
Is GLP-1 the same as Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide — one specific GLP-1 medication approved for type 2 diabetes. Wegovy is the same medication (semaglutide) approved specifically for weight management. Tirzepatide is a different GLP-1 medication that also activates GIP receptors. "GLP-1 therapy" refers to the entire treatment approach using any of these medications.
Can I get GLP-1 therapy in Bloomington, MN?
Yes. Regner Health Solutions was one of the first clinics in the Twin Cities to prescribe GLP-1 therapy for weight management. We're located at 5270 W 84th St Ste 420, Bloomington, MN 55437, and offer both in-person and virtual visits. Book a free 15-minute consultation to see if GLP-1 therapy is right for you.
Curious if GLP-1 is right medical weight loss plan looks like?
A free 15-minute consultation with our medical team. We'll review your health history, explain your options honestly, and only recommend GLP-1 therapy if it's a good fit.
