How to choose a weight loss clinic: verification checklist
A good clinic can explain who evaluates, who prescribes, which pharmacy dispenses, how follow-up works, and what each part costs. You should be able to verify the answers before paying.
1. Confirm who makes the medical decision
Ask for the name and role of the professional reviewing your case. Confirm that the professional is licensed to treat patients in your location. A prescription should not depend only on an automated form or weight goal.
2. Review the evaluation before a prescription
The review should cover history, current medications, allergies, pregnancy when relevant, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal conditions, and other relevant contraindications. It should also explain alternatives and limits.
Ask us these questions
We wrote this checklist. Here is how we answer it.
Physician-led care by Dr. Anjmun Sharma, MD, pricing published before you pay ($119 review, medication separate from $166/month), a named and verifiable dispensing pharmacy, bilingual support in English and Spanish, and plain disclosure that compounded medications are not FDA-approved, not brand-identical, with results that vary.
Then see if you qualify, free 2-min quiz3. Identify the dispensing pharmacy
The clinic does not manufacture or dispense a compounded preparation. Ask for the pharmacy's legal name, then verify its license and public disciplinary history. Ask what documentation accompanies the exact prescription because practices vary.
4. Require clear disclosures
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved, not brand-identical, and cannot claim brand-trial results as their own. Results vary by individual.
5. Get prices and policies in writing
- Medical evaluation fee.
- Separate medication price.
- Follow-up frequency and cost.
- Renewal, pause, cancellation, and refund terms.
- Availability for the patient's location.
6. Check the support plan
You should know whom to call about side effects, how dose changes are reviewed, what happens if a product is unavailable, and when urgent care is recommended. Privacy and data use should also be explained.
Start with availability
If care is available for your location, the medical evaluation is $119. Medication is priced separately, and a prescription is not guaranteed.
Check availabilityFrequently asked questions
How do I know whether a clinic is legitimate?
Confirm that a professional licensed for your location reviews your history before any prescription. Ask which pharmacy would dispense and verify its state license.
What should I ask about compounded medication?
Ask why a preparation is being considered for your individual need, who would dispense it, and how risks are explained. The clinic should state that it is not FDA-approved and not brand-identical.
What pricing information should be available?
Get the evaluation fee, separate medication price, follow-up, cancellation, and renewal terms in writing before authorizing payment.
Why does follow-up matter?
Side effects, response, and goals change. You should know how to reach a clinical person, when the plan will be reviewed, and which symptoms require urgent care.
Should the clinic dispense the medication?
No. The clinic evaluates and prescribes when appropriate. A licensed pharmacy prepares and dispenses any compounded prescription.
This article is educational and does not replace an individual medical evaluation. Do not start, stop, or change a medication without speaking with your health care professional.