GLP-1 medications are a class of drugs specifically aimed at aiding weight management and are used in the treatment of obesity and type-2 diabetes. They are named after the natural hormone they mimic, Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP-1), which your body produces and is secreted by intestinal enteroendocrine L-cells and certain neurons in the brainstem upon food intake.

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone, which is released by your intestines after you eat. This hormone plays a critical role in signaling to your brain that you are full, helping to control your appetite. By leveraging this mechanism, GLP-1 medications make you feel fuller sooner and longer after eating, which can lead to reduced calorie intake and subsequent weight loss. GLP-1s are also valuable for improving blood sugar levels, offering a dual benefit for individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both effective medications for helping people lose weight. Both work by mimicking hormones your body normally makes after you eat—semaglutide mimics one hormone and tirzepatide mimics two hormones.

Semaglutide works solely as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which essentially tells your brain that you're full. By mimicking the action of GLP-1, it helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels, while also slowing gastric emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness.

Tirzepatide combines the actions of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists. This dual action sets tirzepatide apart, offering the potential for even greater reductions in blood sugar levels and weight loss compared to semaglutide. Tirzepatide has also demonstrated a lower risk of hypoglycemia, making it an attractive option for individuals who are prone to low blood sugar episodes.

Compounded medications can be used when FDA-approved drugs are in short supply. While compounded drugs are not FDA-approved, they are required to exclusively use ingredients from FDA-licensed facilities, and test sterile compounds for potency, sterility, and purity. They do not undergo pre-market approval from the FDA as they are not made in large batches for the public, compounds are made based on specific orders from a medical professional. 

Compounded GLP-1s generally come in vials, which require patients to measure out the correct dose with a syringe. While name-brand GLP-1s typically come in pre-measured auto-injectors, which can be easier to use. Another difference to consider is that compounded medications can be more affordable than name-brand drugs.

If you aren't sure which medication is right for you, our board-certified physicians will discuss any questions and concerns you have during your video visit. 

When using GLP-1 medications, you might experience several benefits including a notable reduction in body weight, decreased appetite, improved blood sugar levels, and even some cardiovascular advantages such as a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in certain individuals.

Yes, while GLP-1 medications can be highly beneficial, they may come with potential side effects. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and vomiting, a possible increased risk of pancreatitis, low blood sugar levels especially when combined with other medications, and reactions at the injection site. It is also important to note that these medications are not recommended for individuals with certain medical histories related to thyroid cancer.

There’s a lot of conversation around GLP-1 medications and muscle loss—but it’s important to understand the full picture. Muscle loss is not a direct side effect of the medication. However, with any rapid weight loss, you’re likely to lose muscle mass if you don’t prioritize nutrition and fitness. GLP-1s are just one tool in your health journey. To protect muscle, support metabolism, and achieve lasting results, it’s essential to stay active and fuel your body with the right nutrients. 

No—and that’s not our goal. At Thrive, we see GLP-1 medications as a powerful jumpstart, not a lifelong prescription. Our approach pairs medication with ongoing support in nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle changes to help you build sustainable habits. The goal is long-term success—so when the time comes to stop the medication, you’re equipped to maintain your progress and continue feeling your best.

Semaglutide contributes to weight loss by mimicking the action of the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate your appetite and reduce cravings. 

Semaglutide contributes to weight loss primarily by mimicking the action of the incretin hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and calorie intake. It slows gastric emptying, enhances satiety, and reduces hunger, leading to a lower caloric intake. Additionally, it improves glycemic control by stimulating insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon release. Its effectiveness in significant and sustained weight loss, coupled with its ability to improve various cardiovascular and metabolic parameters, makes it a highly effective option for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. In addition, it is particularly effective for individuals without diabetes, with some experiencing over 20% weight loss within 6 months.

When using semaglutide for weight loss, safety considerations and potential side effects are crucial to understand. Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain. There is also a risk of more serious side effects, including pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and changes in vision. Additionally, significant appetite reduction could result in nutritional deficiencies if not managed with a balanced diet. It is essential to discuss these potential risks and side effects with your healthcare provider to ensure it aligns with your health goals and conditions.

Semaglutide supports long-term weight management and overall health through multiple mechanisms, primarily by acting on the GLP-1 receptors to regulate appetite and improve insulin sensitivity. This action not only aids in reducing caloric intake by enhancing feelings of satiety and reducing hunger but also helps in slowing down gastric emptying, which contributes to prolonged feelings of fullness.

Additionally, semaglutide has been shown to have a positive impact on metabolic health, including improving blood glucose levels and potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by improving parameters such as blood pressure and lipid profiles. The sustained weight loss achieved with semaglutide, as evidenced in clinical trials, suggests minimal weight regain over time when therapy is continued, highlighting its role in long-term weight management.

The reduction in appetite and changes in food preferences towards lower-fat options contribute to a healthier diet, further supporting overall health.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle while using semaglutide for weight loss is essential and is strongly recommended to complement the medication's effects. Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, contributes to weight loss by reducing appetite and caloric intake, but it should not replace exercise and dietary changes. Instead, it is an adjunct treatment designed to enhance the benefits of a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthier diet, increasing physical activity, and making behavioral changes are crucial for achieving long-term weight reduction and health benefits.

Tirzepatide combines the actions of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists, providing a greater reduction in appetite than semaglutide alone. By mimicking the two hormones, it helps to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce hunger, and increase your metabolic rate.

Common side effects of tirzepatide include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Less common but more severe side effects might include difficulty breathing, skin reactions, and signs of liver problems such as yellow eyes or skin. While many side effects may not require medical attention and could diminish over time, managing more severe reactions might necessitate consulting healthcare professionals promptly. Strategies to mitigate these side effects include starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it to improve tolerance.

Tirzepatide's effectiveness in controlling blood sugar and promoting weight loss is attributed to its dual action as a GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. This dual mechanism enhances insulin secretion and reduces hyperglycemia more effectively than treatments targeting only the GLP-1 receptor, contributing to significant weight loss and improved metabolic health. Tirzepatide also reduces appetite and delays gastric emptying, which helps in reducing caloric intake and promoting weight loss.

Those considering tirzepatide for weight loss should be aware of its administration as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, which may be accompanied by common side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and injection site reactions. The medication's dosage should be gradually increased to minimize side effects. Tirzepatide has been approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight conditions in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Tirzepatide possesses a unique ability to stimulate insulin secretion by targeting two different mechanisms in the body: the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual action enhances the drug's effectiveness in lowering blood glucose levels in those with type 2 diabetes. Tirzepatide's capacity to activate these receptors not only restores insulin production but also helps in reducing appetite, which contributes to weight loss over time. This dual receptor activation offers a broader range of activity within the body, distinguishing tirzepatide from other diabetes therapies.

GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) and GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) are both important hormones released after eating to help regulate your insulin levels, but they have some key differences. GIP is primarily found in the upper part of your small intestine and is known for its role in managing insulin in response to meals, particularly those rich in glucose and fats. On the other hand, GLP-1, which comes from a different part of the gut, not only helps with insulin but also has a broader range of benefits, including reducing appetite, slowing down how quickly your stomach empties after eating, and even having protective effects on the brain. While GLP-1 has been used successfully in treating diabetes and aiding in weight loss, GIP's potential is still being explored, particularly when used together with GLP-1. This distinction makes GLP-1 a particularly valuable tool in managing blood sugar levels and weight, offering more than just insulin regulation.

Tirzepatide is unique because it works on two fronts by targeting both GLP-1 and GIP receptors in your body. This dual action helps to control blood sugar levels and supports weight loss more effectively than medications that focus on just one receptor. By influencing both pathways involved in metabolic regulation, tirzepatide offers a broader approach to managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, potentially leading to better health outcomes. This dual approach is a key factor in why tirzepatide might be a particularly effective treatment option for some individuals.

Fill out our 5-minute questionnaire to get started. Be prepared to answer questions related to your health history and goals. Once you submit your payment, you’ll schedule a video call with your Thrive physician.

This isn’t a quick screening; it’s your dedicated time to discuss your goals, ask questions, address any concerns, and get clarity on what to expect before your first dose. Once approved, your prescription will be mailed directly to you.

The cost includes your medication, unlimited messaging to your care team, access to the Thrive app, and all physician support—from your initial visit to ongoing oversight.

Yes, after completing the sign up process, you'll schedule a video visit with one of our board-certified doctors. They're not just going to write a prescription and send you on your way. You get thoughtful, ongoing medical care—not a preset protocol.

From selecting the right treatment to adjusting your plan over time, your Thrive physician will take their time to understand the full picture. Every decision is grounded in clinical expertise and made with your goals in mind so you feel confident every step of the way. By signing up, you unlock trusted, personalized guidance before your treatment even begins. 

This decision is made by our licensed medical professionals and based on clinical guidelines and your health history. However, disqualification in the intake process usually occurs due to certain health-related criteria, such as Body Mass Index (BMI) and the presence of certain comorbidities. These measures are in place to ensure that our services are suitable and safe for your health needs.

Thrive makes it simple to start your GLP-1 journey. Start by completing a brief questionnaire about your health history. Here, you can select your preferred type of medication from the available options. Then you’ll meet with a board-certified physician to discuss your goals and finalize your treatment plan. This process makes getting a semaglutide or tirzepatide prescription online easy and credible. 

Your doctor will submit your prescription directly to the pharmacy electronically. The pharmacy then takes over to fill your prescription in preparation for shipping to your provided mailing address.

After your prescription is filled, the pharmacy will ship your medication directly to you at the address you provided during the checkout process.

Injectable medications are shipped with ice packs. If your medication comes refrigerated, we recommend storing your medication in the refrigerator as soon as it arrives. While our products are designed to withstand short-term exposure to higher temperatures during transit, refrigeration helps maintain their potency and effectiveness over time.

Yes, all necessary instructions and supplies are provided with each month of medication.

Yes.

Testosterone is the hormone that makes men, men. Produced in the testicles, it’s the driving force behind muscle growth, body and facial hair, a deeper voice, and even sperm production. It’s what fuels male sexual development, especially during puberty. But as you age, testosterone levels drop — it’s just biology. For some men, those levels drop too low. That’s called Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome (TD) or Low Testosterone (Low T). When your body doesn’t have enough testosterone, you can feel the difference, and it’s not something you have to accept.

T/Free T refers to the ratio of total testosterone (T) to free testosterone (Free T) in the blood. This ratio is used to assess the levels of testosterone that are biologically active and available for use by the body, as opposed to testosterone that is bound to proteins and not readily available. Total testosterone includes all the testosterone in the blood, both bound and unbound, with most of it bound to proteins such as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin, making it biologically inactive. Free testosterone, on the other hand, is the fraction of testosterone that is not bound to any proteins and is therefore biologically active. This form of testosterone can enter cells and exert its effects on various tissues.

The T/Free T ratio is important because it provides a more accurate picture of the hormonal status and potential clinical conditions than total testosterone alone. For instance, in conditions like hypogonadism, the total testosterone levels might be normal, but the free testosterone levels could be low, indicating a deficiency in biologically active testosterone. Several methods are used to measure free testosterone, including equilibrium dialysis (considered the gold standard but not suitable for routine clinical use), direct immunoassay (which may not be as accurate) , calculated free testosterone derived from total testosterone and SHBG concentrations, and the Free Androgen Index (FAI), which is the ratio of total testosterone to SHBG, providing an estimate of free testosterone levels. Accurate measurement of free testosterone is crucial for diagnosing and managing conditions like hypogonadism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other endocrine disorders. Standardization and validation of these measurement methods are essential for reliable clinical assessment.

The normal ranges for testosterone levels can vary based on the method of measurement and the population being studied. For adult men, total testosterone levels typically range from 264 to 916 ng/dL in healthy, non-obese men aged 19 to 39 years, with calculated free testosterone levels ranging from 0.23 to 0.63 nmol/L. 

In specific populations, such as older men with low or low-normal testosterone levels, the range is defined as total testosterone between 100 to 400 ng/dL or free testosterone less than 50 pg/mL. For aging men with low-normal testosterone levels, the range is 6-14 nmol/L. The method of measurement, such as tandem mass spectrometry, can affect reference ranges due to its accuracy, with harmonized values for total testosterone in men aged 19 to 39 years being 264 to 916 ng/dL. 

Low testosterone, or hypogonadism, hits hard in many areas—physically, sexually, emotionally, and mentally. Physically, it can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, weaker bones, added body fat, and urinary issues. Sexually, men may face a drop in libido, erectile dysfunction, and fewer morning erections. Emotionally and mentally, it can trigger depression, mood swings, and problems with focus and memory. Other signs include hair loss, breast tissue development (gynecomastia), and infertility. These symptoms can seriously impact your quality of life, so it’s important to get checked if you’re experiencing any of them.

Verifying low testosterone levels involves both clinical evaluation and laboratory testing. Clinically, symptoms such as fatigue, reduced muscle mass, increased body fat, decreased bone density, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, mood changes, depression, and cognitive decline are assessed. A thorough medical history, including chronic illnesses and medications that might affect hormone levels, is reviewed. Reference ranges typically consider total testosterone levels below 300 ng/dL and free testosterone below 50 pg/mL as low. Results should be correlated with symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis. It's also crucial to investigate and manage any underlying conditions that might contribute to low testosterone. A laboratory panel containing Testosterone, Free Testosterone, SHBG, PSA, Estradiol, and CBC is collected at initial, three months, six months, and every 6 months thereafter.

Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) is a treatment for men with low testosterone levels, a condition known as hypogonadism. Symptoms of hypogonadism can include decreased libido, fatigue, and loss of muscle mass. To qualify for TRT, you need to have low serum testosterone levels (below 300 to 350 ng/dL) on two separate morning tests and show symptoms of hypogonadism. TRT comes in different forms, such as topical gels and intramuscular injections, and the choice depends on factors like cost and your preference.

While TRT can effectively improve symptoms and enhance quality of life, it requires careful selection, shared decision-making with your doctor, and close monitoring due to potential risks. Studies have shown that TRT can help improve symptoms and quality of life in men with low testosterone levels, but there are concerns about possible cardiovascular risks and long-term safety. Guidelines for TRT emphasize the need for personalized treatment plans and following clinical recommendations to avoid misuse. Despite some controversies, TRT is a commonly used treatment for hypogonadism, with ongoing research to better understand its benefits and risks.

Oral TRT offers a convenient and effective alternative to testosterone replacement—without the pain that comes from injections. Same results, less hassle.

Testosterone replacement therapy can offer several benefits for individuals with testosterone deficiency. It can improve sexual function by enhancing libido and erectile function, and it can boost mood and emotional well-being by alleviating symptoms of depression, irritability, and fatigue. TRT can also increase muscle mass and strength, improve bone density, and help prevent osteoporosis. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, TRT can improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity. Additionally, TRT may positively impact cardiovascular health, cognitive functions like memory and processing speed, and overall quality of life. However, TRT should be administered under medical supervision, with regular monitoring to ensure safety and manage potential risks such as increased red blood cell count and cardiovascular concerns.

Testosterone replacement therapy can be used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED), particularly in men with low testosterone levels (hypogonadism). Studies show that testosterone therapy can significantly improve ED symptoms in hypogonadal men, with 91.9% of young men with organic ED reporting improvement after therapy. Combining testosterone therapy with PDE5 inhibitors, like sildenafil, has proven effective for men who do not respond to PDE5 inhibitors alone, restoring erectile function in 70% of diabetic participants. Long-term testosterone therapy has shown benefits in improving erectile function in men with functional hypogonadism and obesity, with significant improvements noted over up to 13 years. Testosterone therapy has also been effective in men with venous leakage, with some reporting significant improvement within 12-20 weeks of treatment. Additionally, in men with type 2 diabetes and hypogonadism, long-acting testosterone undecanoate improved sexual function and quality of life, including better IIEF scores. Regular monitoring and a tailored approach by healthcare providers are essential to maximize benefits and manage potential risks.

Some patients could experience one or more of the following side effects from testosterone replacement therapy:

• Increase in red blood cells. This can be beneficial if you have anemia. However, it can be potentially dangerous because an increase in red blood cells can lead to blood clots, heart attack, or stroke.
• Prostate effects. If you have an enlarged prostate, testosterone may worsen your symptoms, particularly if you are more than 50 years of age. If you have a history of prostate cancer, you cannot receive testosterone therapy without prior clearance from the urologist who is overseeing your care.
• Skin reactions. Acne, oily skin, increased body hair, and flushing have been reported. These side effects are not very common, but if they occur, often they are transient.
• Infertility. Testosterone therapy down regulates production of a man’s sperm. Be upfront with your medical provider about your desire for children and be sure to discuss the situation with your spouse or partner, if appropriate.
• Sleep apnea. This is a condition that disrupts breathing during sleep, and if already present, may be worsened by the use of testosterone therapy. If you snore or suspect you may have sleep apnea, be sure to talk to your medical provider about the situation. Considering a sleep study for further evaluation may be appropriate prior to starting therapy.
• Fluid retention. Although uncommon, you must use caution if you have a history of heart failure or kidney disease.

KYZATREX® is an FDA-approved oral testosterone for men who have low or no testosterone levels due to certain medical conditions. KYZATREX® is a controlled substance (CIII) because it contains testosterone. It is not known if KYZATREX® is safe or effective in males younger than 18 years old. Improper use may affect bone growth in children. KYZATREX® is not meant for use by women. KYZATREX® is an immediate-release oral testosterone undecanoate. It is absorbed through the lymphatic system, where the body then uses it to replace testosterone that has been lost as a result of various medical conditions.

KYZATREX® is taken orally, with two doses a day alongside food. Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions based on your treatment plan.

KYZATREX® is a controlled substance (CIII) because it contains testosterone. It is not known if KYZATREX® is safe or effective in males younger than 18 years old. Improper use may affect bone growth in children. KYZATREX® is not meant for use by women. In the phase 3 clinical trial for KYZATREX® (n=155), 4 patients (2.6%) reported high blood pressure. A total of 5 patients (3.2%) began taking new antihypertensive medications after study start. No patient increased their dose of antihypertensive medication. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure while you are being treated with KYZATREX®. If your blood pressure increases, you may need to start medication to control your blood pressure. If you are currently taking blood pressure medicines, they may need to be changed or new blood pressure medicines may need to be added. If your blood pressure cannot be controlled, KYZATREX® may need to be stopped. KYZATREX® is not bad for your liver. You may have heard about older forms of oral testosterone being liver toxic. The good news is that KYZATREX® was specifically designed to be absorbed lymphatically. This means it bypasses your liver avoiding the liver toxicity associated with oral testosterone medications of the past.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment that supplements declining levels of estrogen and progesterone, typically during or after menopause. These hormones play key roles in regulating everything from temperature control to mood, bone health, and sexual function.

By restoring balance, HRT can reduce symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, while also helping protect long-term health by supporting bone density and cardiovascular function. The goal is not just symptom relief, but helping women feel more energized, stable, and in control as their bodies change.

There are common symptoms of hormonal imbalance that may indicate that you could benefit from HRT. These include hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, vaginal dryness, low libido, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. Over time, low hormone levels can also contribute to bone loss and increased risk of osteoporosis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, HRT may help to restore balance and improve your quality of life.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can offer several benefits for women experiencing symptoms of menopause or hormone decline. It can reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness while improving sleep, mood, and overall quality of life.

HRT also supports bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis and fractures, and may contribute to heart and cognitive health in some women. By restoring hormonal balance, HRT can enhance energy, sexual function, and emotional well-being, making the transition through menopause smoother and more sustainable.

Yes, while Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can provide significant benefits, it also comes with potential side effects. Common side effects may include breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, or mood changes, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting dosage. More serious risks can include blood clots, stroke, or certain types of cancer, depending on the form of HRT, your age, and individual health history.

Not all women experience side effects, and many find symptoms improve as their body adjusts. It’s important to work closely with a doctor to monitor your response, minimize risks, and ensure HRT is safe and effective for your unique needs.

HRT can help relieve menopause symptoms by restoring the hormones your body naturally produces less of during this stage of life – primarily estrogen and, in some cases, progesterone. By balancing hormone levels, HRT can reduce common symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. It may also improve sleep quality, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being. Beyond symptom relief, HRT can support long-term health by helping protect bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) uses hormones that are chemically identical to the ones your body naturally produces, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Because they closely match your hormones at a molecular level, BHRT is designed to restore balance more naturally and may reduce symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. It can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and enhance cognitive function.

Thrive offers three types of HRT tailored to women’s needs: Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone. Your Thrive physician will tailor your personalized treatment around your stage of life and personal goals.