Semaglutide is an injectable prescription medication used together with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is in a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.
Getting a prescription for semaglutide requires seeing your doctor and having a conversation about whether it may be an appropriate treatment option for you. Here are some key points about getting a prescription:
- Your doctor will review your medical history, including any conditions you have and medications you currently take, to determine if semaglutide is appropriate for you.
- Let your doctor know if you have any history of thyroid tumors or are at high risk for thyroid tumors. Semaglutide should not be used in these situations due to potential risk.
- Tell your doctor about any side effects you have experienced with other diabetes medications. This will help determine if semaglutide may be better tolerated.
- Be prepared to discuss your current diabetes treatment regimen, latest lab work, and how well your blood sugar levels are controlled with your current plan. This helps determine if adding semaglutide could help improve control.
- Ask your doctor if semaglutide is a good option for you based on your medical profile. Discuss pros and cons, as well as alternatives. Make the decision together.
- If prescribed, your doctor will explain how to properly inject semaglutide. Doses start low and increase over 5-8 weeks to improve gastrointestinal tolerance. Following dosing instructions is important.
- You will need regular lab work and follow-up visits with your doctor to monitor blood sugar control and potential side effects. This allows your doctor to determine if semaglutide is working or adjustments are needed.
Paying for semaglutide can be expensive, with costs typically ranging $800-1,500 per month without insurance coverage. Here are some tips to make it more affordable:
- Check if your health insurance plan covers semaglutide. Many plans now include it, often with prior authorization requirements. This can significantly lower your out-of-pocket costs.
- Enroll in savings programs offered by the drug manufacturer or use a prescription discount card to receive discounts on each prescription fill. This can make the medication more reasonably priced if not covered by insurance.
- Shop around at different pharmacies to compare pricing, use mail order options for additional savings, and always ask about generic alternatives when available. Every bit of savings counts.
- Consult with financial assistance resources from the drug manufacturer or non-profits if you are having trouble affording the medication. Income-based programs may be available to help.
At
Hormone Wellness Center, our physicians specialize in diabetes and metabolism conditions. We help patients determine if newer treatments like semaglutide are appropriate options through comprehensive medical evaluations, reviewing insurance coverage, and assisting with affordability programs.
Schedule a consultation today to discuss your treatment plan and see if we can assist with obtaining a prescription if semaglutide is right for you. We're here to help you achieve better health.