Weight loss FAQs
GLP-1 care, explained

Medical weight loss is a physician-supervised program that uses FDA-approved-class GLP-1 medications, along with nutrition and lifestyle guidance, to help you lose weight safely. It's managed by real, in-person physicians, not an app or a telehealth mill.

GLP-1 medications work by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and improving how your body regulates blood sugar and metabolism. This helps you feel full sooner and eat less, leading to steady weight loss.

Two: Compounded Semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) and Compounded Tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound). Your physician recommends the best fit for your health and goals.

Your program is managed by in-person physicians at our clinics who examine you, monitor your progress, and adjust your dosage over time. You get real medical oversight, not a one-size-fits-all online plan.

You'll have an in-person evaluation to start, then brief monthly check-ins. Between visits, you self-inject weekly at home, so most of the program fits your schedule.

Beyond weight loss, many patients see improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and energy. The program focuses on your overall health, not just the number on the scale.

Our San Jose, Santa Clara, and Sunnyvale clinics. Call (408) 687-4806 to start at the location nearest you.

No referral needed. You can call (408) 687-4806 and book your initial evaluation directly.

Adults who want to lose weight and haven't reached their goals with diet and exercise alone. A physician reviews your health history at your first visit to confirm the program is right and safe for you.

GLP-1 programs are generally intended for adults with an elevated BMI, or a slightly lower BMI with weight-related health conditions. Your physician confirms eligibility during your evaluation.

Often yes, and GLP-1 medications can help with blood sugar. Tell your physician about your diabetes and any medications so your plan is coordinated safely.

Certain personal or family histories (for example, specific thyroid cancers or pancreatitis) may make GLP-1 medications unsuitable. Your physician screens for these at your first visit.

Usually yes, but your physician will review everything you take to avoid interactions and adjust the plan as needed. Bring a full list of your medications.

The program is for adults. Your physician will determine suitability based on your age, health history, and goals.

Possibly. Let your physician know your surgical history so they can tailor a safe plan for you.

It's the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy, compounded for our self-pay program. Patients on semaglutide commonly see meaningful, steady weight loss over several months.

It's the same active ingredient as Mounjaro and Zepbound, with dual GIP/GLP-1 action. In head-to-head trials, tirzepatide has delivered stronger results than semaglutide alone.

Semaglutide acts on one hormone pathway (GLP-1); tirzepatide acts on two (GIP and GLP-1), which often produces greater weight loss. Your physician recommends the right one for you based on your health and goals.

Compounded medications are prepared with the same active ingredient as the brand-name drugs, formulated for our program. This lets us offer a self-pay option with physician supervision.

Both are given as a once-weekly self-injection at home, using a small needle. We teach you exactly how to do it at your first visit — it's simple and nearly painless.

Most patients find it nearly painless. The needle is very small, and you inject into the fat just under the skin of your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Yes. Your physician starts you at a low dose and gradually increases it (titration). This limits side effects while helping you reach an effective dose.

GLP-1 medications are typically refrigerated. We'll give you complete storage and handling instructions when you start.

Take it as soon as you remember if it's within a few days; otherwise skip it and resume your normal schedule. Don't double up. Your physician will give you specific guidance.

Pricing depends on the medication and dose. We run a transparent self-pay program with clear monthly pricing. Call (408) 687-4806 for current costs.

The program is self-pay, which keeps pricing simple and avoids insurance approval delays. There are no insurance hoops to jump through.

No. We use clear, upfront pricing with no surprise membership fees. You'll know what you're paying before you start.

Your program pricing covers your physician supervision and monthly follow-ups along with the medication. We'll explain exactly what's included when you call.

Many patients use HSA or FSA funds for medical weight loss. Keep your receipts, and check your plan's rules to confirm eligibility.

No long-term contract. The program is structured around monthly check-ins, so you stay in control of how long you continue.

Pricing can vary with dose. Your physician and our team will keep you informed so there are no surprises as your plan progresses.

Call (408) 687-4806 to book your initial evaluation. At that visit, a physician reviews your health, confirms the right medication, and you can start the same day in most cases.

Your physician reviews your health history and goals, checks your eligibility, recommends Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, and teaches you how to self-inject. Many patients receive their first dose the same day.

Brief monthly check-ins, where your physician reviews your progress, weight, and how you're tolerating the medication, and adjusts your dose as needed.

No. You only come in for your initial visit and monthly follow-ups. Weekly injections are done at home.

Your initial visit is in person. We'll discuss the most convenient way to handle your monthly check-ins so the program stays practical, even if you're not local.

It varies by person and goal. Many patients stay on the program for several months to reach and maintain their target weight, with your physician guiding the timeline.

Yes. The medication works best alongside practical nutrition and lifestyle coaching, which we include so your results last.

Yes. Because it's built around monthly check-ins with no long-term contract, you can pause or stop after discussing it with your physician, who will advise on tapering if needed.

Results vary, but patients on Compounded Semaglutide commonly lose around 12–15% of body weight, and those on Compounded Tirzepatide often see 15–20% over several months of supervised treatment.

Many patients notice reduced appetite within the first week or two, with steady weight loss building over the following months as your dose increases.

Weight maintenance depends on continued healthy habits. That's why we include nutrition and lifestyle coaching, and your physician helps you plan for maintaining your results long term.

Some weight regain is possible after stopping any weight loss medication, especially without lifestyle changes. Your physician helps you build sustainable habits and plan your transition.

The medication makes it easier to eat less, but healthy eating and activity improve and sustain your results. We coach you on both.

Your physician reviews your dose, habits, and response at your check-ins and adjusts your plan. Sometimes a dose change or switching medication improves results.

Yes. Many patients see improvements in blood sugar, blood pressure, and energy as they lose weight under physician supervision.

The most common are mild digestive effects — nausea, reduced appetite, constipation, or occasional diarrhea — usually early on and easing as your body adjusts. Gradual dose increases help minimize them.

Your physician starts you at a low dose and increases it slowly (titration), which is the main way to keep side effects manageable while reaching an effective dose.

GLP-1 medications have been widely studied and used. Under physician supervision, with proper screening and dose adjustments, they are considered safe for appropriate candidates. Your physician monitors you throughout.

Contact your physician. Often a slower dose increase, timing changes, or simple dietary adjustments resolve the issue. Never adjust your dose on your own without guidance.

Serious risks are uncommon but possible, which is why screening matters. Tell your physician about any history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or certain thyroid cancers so they can keep you safe.

Moderate alcohol may be okay for some patients, but it can worsen nausea and add empty calories. Discuss your habits with your physician for personalized advice.

No. GLP-1 weight loss medications are not used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tell your physician if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing.

Real, in-person physicians at Instant Urgent Care oversee your entire program — from your initial evaluation through every monthly check-in and dose adjustment.