GLP Weight Loss Medications — Supervised by a Doctor, Not an App
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide can produce real, meaningful weight loss. But they work best — and safest — with in-person medical oversight, monthly monitoring, and a doctor who adjusts your plan when things change. That's what we provide.
What Are GLP Medications?
GLP stands for glucagon-like peptide. GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications that work by mimicking a hormone your body already produces — one that regulates appetite, slows digestion, and signals fullness to your brain.
The result: less hunger between meals, smaller portions without feeling deprived, and — when combined with the right lifestyle habits — consistent, meaningful weight loss over time.
You've likely heard of semaglutide under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy. These are GLP-1 medications. At SWMO Wellness Center, Dr. Murphy prescribes FDA-approved GLP-1 medications appropriate for weight management — under careful, in-person medical supervision.
Is a GLP Medication Right for You?
GLP medications aren't for everyone — but they're appropriate for a wider range of patients than most people think. Dr. Murphy determines eligibility at your first consultation, based on your full health history and current medications.
Not sure if you qualify? The only way to know is a consultation. Dr. Murphy will review your health history and give you a straight answer.
You've struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
You've tried traditional appetite suppressants without adequate results
Your BMI meets current clinical guidelines for GLP medication use
You're looking for a medically supervised program — not a quick fix
You're committed to monthly follow-up appointments and ongoing adjustments
You don't have contraindicated medical conditions (Dr. Murphy will assess this)
What Your GLP Program Looks Like
Step 1 | Your Consultation
Dr. Murphy reviews your full health history, current medications, goals, and eligibility at your first visit. If GLP medications are appropriate for you, he'll explain the options, discuss the right starting medication and dose, and walk you through what to expect in the first few weeks.
Step 2 | Starting Your Medication
GLP medications are typically administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin. Dr. Murphy and our team will show you exactly how to administer it — most patients find it straightforward within the first week. You'll start at a low dose, which is increased gradually based on your response.
Step 3 | Monthly Monitoring
Every monthly appointment includes a blood pressure check, vitals review, progress assessment, and side effect review. If your dose needs adjusting — up or down — Dr. Murphy makes that call in the room, not through a patient portal message two weeks later.
Step 4 | Plan Beyond the Medication
GLP medications are a tool, not a permanent solution, for most patients. Dr. Murphy builds the dietary habits and lifestyle education alongside your medication program so that when the time comes to taper off or transition, you're not starting from zero.
In-Person Care vs. Telehealth Apps
If you've looked into GLP medications, you've probably seen ads for telehealth services that prescribe them online. Here's how our approach is different.
This isn't about saying telehealth is wrong. It's about knowing what you're getting. If you want a doctor who examines you, knows your chart, and makes decisions based on what he observes — that's what we offer.
GLP Medication Questions
We offer FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist medications for weight management. The specific medications available are discussed at your consultation based on your health profile, goals, and current availability. Dr. Murphy will walk you through the options that are appropriate for you.
Clinical studies show that GLP medications, combined with lifestyle changes, can help patients lose 10–20% or more of their body weight over 12–18 months. Individual results vary based on starting weight, dose, adherence, and other factors. Dr. Murphy will give you a realistic expectation at your first visit — not a sales pitch.
GLP medications are typically a once-weekly injection administered under the skin (subcutaneous injection) — usually in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. We'll show you exactly how to do it at your first appointment. Most patients are comfortable with the process within the first week. The needle is very small.
The most commonly reported side effects are nausea, upset stomach, and reduced appetite — particularly when first starting the medication or when the dose increases. These typically improve as your body adjusts over the first few weeks. Dr. Murphy reviews for side effects at every monthly appointment and adjusts your dose if needed.
GLP medications are not appropriate for patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). Other contraindications exist and are reviewed at your first consultation. Dr. Murphy will assess your full health history before recommending any GLP medication.
Not necessarily. Some patients use GLP medications as a bridge — reaching a healthy weight and then transitioning to a maintenance plan. Others remain on a lower maintenance dose long-term. Dr. Murphy discusses the long-term plan with every patient individually. There's no one-size-fits-all answer, and you won't be pressured into any particular path.
GLP medications are generally more expensive than traditional oral appetite suppressants. Semaglutide starts at $140, and tirzepatide starts at $185. Prices do increase as dosage increases, but we strive to keep patients on the lowest dose that remains effective in meeting their goals. We do not file insurance, but we provide a detailed receipt after every visit that you can submit to your insurer toward your deductible. FSA cards are accepted.
We adjust. Dr. Murphy will review your progress, evaluate what may be contributing to a plateau, and determine whether a dose change, medication switch, or program adjustment is appropriate. You're not left to figure it out on your own — that's what monthly appointments are for.
This is reviewed individually at your consultation. Bring a current list of all medications, supplements, and dosages to your first appointment. Dr. Murphy will review for interactions before recommending any GLP medication.
Most primary care doctors are not specialized in weight management. They have limited appointment time, often limited experience with GLP dosing and monitoring, and may not have the systems in place for the ongoing monthly oversight that produces the best results. Dr. Murphy's entire practice is built around weight loss — it's not a side service.
Ready to Find Out If GLP Medications Are Right for You?
Your first appointment is a consultation — Dr. Murphy will review your health history, answer your questions, and give you a straight answer about whether this program is a fit. No pressure. No obligation to decide before you arrive.
