Who Qualifies for GLP-1 Weight Loss Medication?

GLP-1 medications have transformed the weight loss landscape, but they’re not for everyone — and they’re not available without a prescription. Understanding the qualification criteria can help you know whether you’re a good candidate before investing time and money in a program.

The Basic FDA Criteria

The FDA has approved GLP-1 medications for weight management in adults who meet specific criteria. While criteria vary slightly by medication, the general guidelines are:

For Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg):

• BMI ≥ 30 (classified as obesity), OR
• BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related health condition such as:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol (dyslipidemia)
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Cardiovascular disease

For Zepbound (Tirzepatide):

The same BMI criteria apply — BMI ≥ 30, or BMI ≥ 27 with a weight-related comorbidity.

Who Doesn’t Qualify?

Even if you meet the BMI criteria, you may not qualify for GLP-1 medications if you have certain contraindications:

Absolute Contraindications

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) — GLP-1 medications carry a black box warning for this risk
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• Serious hypersensitivity to semaglutide or tirzepatide
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Conditions Requiring Careful Evaluation

• History of pancreatitis
• Severe kidney or liver disease
• Diabetic retinopathy (for semaglutide specifically)
• Eating disorders
• Certain mental health conditions

Age Considerations

Most telehealth GLP-1 programs require patients to be at least 18 years old. Some medications have been approved for adolescents 12 and older, but this is typically through traditional healthcare channels, not telehealth weight loss programs.

There’s no upper age limit, but prescribers will evaluate overall health status and medication interactions in older patients.

What the Telehealth Intake Process Looks Like

When you sign up for a telehealth GLP-1 program, you’ll typically go through:

1. Online health questionnaire — Height, weight, medical history, current medications
2. Lab work review — Some programs require recent bloodwork; others will order labs for you
3. Provider consultation — Video call, phone call, or async messaging with a licensed prescriber
4. Prescription decision — Your provider will determine if you qualify and which medication is appropriate

This process is typically faster than traditional healthcare — many people receive a prescription within 24–72 hours of completing their intake.

What If You Don’t Meet the BMI Criteria?

This is a common frustration. Some people have a BMI just below 27 but struggle with weight and related health issues. A few things to know:

• BMI criteria are guidelines, not absolute rules — prescribers have clinical discretion
• If you have metabolic conditions (insulin resistance, prediabetes) even at a lower BMI, some providers may consider GLP-1 treatment
• Some telehealth programs are stricter about BMI criteria than others
• Non-GLP-1 prescription weight loss options may be available for people who don’t meet GLP-1 criteria

Calculating Your BMI

BMI (Body Mass Index) is calculated as: weight (kg) / height (m)². For US measurements: BMI = (weight in pounds × 703) / (height in inches²).

• BMI 18.5–24.9: Normal weight
• BMI 25–29.9: Overweight
• BMI 30–34.9: Obesity Class I
• BMI 35–39.9: Obesity Class II
• BMI ≥ 40: Obesity Class III

You can find free BMI calculators on the CDC website or through most telehealth program intake forms.

The Bottom Line

If you have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27+ with a weight-related health condition and no major contraindications, you’re likely a candidate for GLP-1 weight loss medication. The next step is consulting with a healthcare provider — which has never been easier thanks to telehealth programs that can evaluate you online.

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Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. GLP-1 medications are prescription drugs. Consult a licensed physician before starting any weight loss medication. See our full Medical Disclaimer.