Getting a GLP-1 prescription online in 2026 is straightforward — most telehealth platforms can evaluate you and prescribe within 24-72 hours. Here's exactly how the process works, from intake to medication delivery.
Step 1: Choose a Prescribing Platform
You have three main pathways: telehealth platforms specializing in weight loss (fastest, typically self-pay), your existing primary care physician (covered by insurance if they prescribe brand-name), or general telehealth services like Sesame Care (flexible, pay-per-visit).
For most self-pay patients, a dedicated GLP-1 telehealth provider offers the fastest path with all-inclusive pricing — medication, shipping, and clinical oversight bundled into one monthly fee.
Step 2: Complete the Medical Intake
Every legitimate provider requires a medical evaluation. You'll provide your height, weight, and BMI (must be 30+, or 27+ with a weight-related condition), medical history including current medications, any contraindications (thyroid cancer history, pregnancy, eating disorders, type 1 diabetes), and your weight loss goals.
Most platforms use an online questionnaire followed by either a video consultation or asynchronous physician review. Both are legitimate — the key is that a licensed prescriber evaluates your specific situation.
Step 3: Prescription and Medication
Once approved, your prescriber writes the prescription and the pharmacy fulfills it. For telehealth platforms, medication ships directly to your home — typically arriving 3-7 days after approval. You'll start at the lowest dose (0.25mg semaglutide or 2.5mg tirzepatide) and titrate up over weeks.
What "Not Approved" Means
If a provider determines you don't qualify, they should explain why. Common reasons: BMI too low, contraindicated medical conditions, or medication interactions. A legitimate denial protects you — be wary of providers that approve everyone.
Oak Longevity $130/mo flat · Flat-rate pricing at any dose. $130/mo semaglutide, $199/mo tirzepatide. Free coaching. Cancel anytime.
⚕️ Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by licensed pharmacies under physician supervision.
Sesame Care From $99/visit · Prescribes FDA-approved brand-name medications only. Accepts insurance. No subscription lock-in.
Prescribes FDA-approved brand-name medications only.
GobyMeds $99/mo sema, $133/mo tirz · Direct-to-consumer. Semaglutide $99/mo bundle, tirzepatide $133/mo bundle. Code x7X72r saves $25.
⚕️ Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are prepared by licensed pharmacies under physician supervision.