Tools in This Collection
GLP-1 Dosing Schedule
Map semaglutide and tirzepatide titration timelines week by week
GLP-1 Cost Calculator
Compare brand-name vs compounded GLP-1 medication costs
GLP-1 Weight Loss Calculator
Project weight loss based on clinical trial average response rates
GLP-1 Savings Calculator
Estimate savings from coupons and patient assistance programs
GLP-1 Insurance Checker
Check if your insurance plan covers GLP-1 medications
GLP-1 Protein Calculator
Calculate daily protein needs to preserve muscle during GLP-1 weight loss
These tools are for educational purposes and screening awareness — they do not replace professional medical evaluation. Always follow your prescribing physician's dosing instructions over any calculator output.
GLP-1 Medication Planning Workflow
GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide) require careful titration and ongoing management. These tools help patients understand their treatment timeline, project outcomes, manage costs, and maintain nutrition during weight loss.
Dosing Schedule and Titration
The GLP-1 Dosing Schedule maps the standard titration timeline for major GLP-1 medications. Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) starts at 0.25 mg/week for 4 weeks, then escalates: 0.5 mg → 1.0 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg over 16–20 weeks. Slow titration reduces nausea, vomiting, and GI side effects that cause early discontinuation. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) follows a similar escalation pattern starting at 2.5 mg/week.
Weight Loss Projections
The GLP-1 Weight Loss Calculator estimates projected weight loss based on clinical trial average response rates. SURMOUNT-1 trial data for tirzepatide shows 15% body weight reduction at 5 mg, 19.5% at 10 mg, and 20.9% at 15 mg over 72 weeks. STEP-1 trial data for semaglutide 2.4 mg shows an average 14.9% reduction over 68 weeks. These are population averages — individual results vary significantly.
Cost and Insurance Planning
The GLP-1 Cost Calculator compares brand-name versus compounded GLP-1 options. Brand-name semaglutide runs $900–$1,350/month without insurance. Compounded semaglutide from compounding pharmacies costs $150–$400/month depending on dose and supplier. The GLP-1 Insurance Checker helps determine whether your plan covers GLP-1 medications for obesity treatment. The GLP-1 Savings Calculator estimates potential savings from manufacturer coupons and patient assistance programs.
Nutrition During GLP-1 Treatment
The GLP-1 Protein Calculator helps patients maintain adequate protein intake during rapid weight loss. Protein needs increase to approximately 1 g per pound of lean body mass (or 1.2–1.6 g/kg of body weight) to prevent muscle loss during GLP-1-assisted weight reduction. Adequate protein intake also supports satiety and helps patients maintain higher protein consumption despite reduced overall food intake.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the GLP-1 titration schedule take?
The standard semaglutide (Wegovy) titration takes 16–20 weeks to reach the full 2.4 mg maintenance dose. Starting at 0.25 mg/week, the dose increases every 4 weeks: 0.5 mg → 1.0 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg. Tirzepatide follows a similar 20-week schedule. Slow titration minimizes GI side effects and improves long-term tolerability.
What is the average weight loss on semaglutide?
Clinical trial data (STEP-1) shows an average 14.9% body weight reduction on semaglutide 2.4 mg over 68 weeks. For a 250-pound person, that's approximately 37 pounds. Tirzepatide shows higher average reductions (15–21% depending on dose in the SURMOUNT-1 trial). Individual results vary — responders may lose significantly more or less than the average.
How much protein do I need while taking a GLP-1 medication?
Current guidance suggests 1.2–1.6 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day during active weight loss on GLP-1 medications. For a 100 kg (220 lb) person, this means 120–160 g of protein daily. Higher protein intake helps preserve lean muscle mass when losing weight rapidly. The GLP-1 Protein Calculator determines your target based on current weight and activity level.
Does insurance cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss?
Coverage varies widely. Many commercial plans and Medicare Part D now cover semaglutide (Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Zepbound) for obesity (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with a weight-related condition), but prior authorization requirements differ. Medicaid coverage varies by state. The GLP-1 Insurance Checker helps identify coverage pathways and manufacturer assistance programs.