Weight loss services

Achieving your desired weight loss with diet and exercise alone can be difficult.  New medications have become available that help patients lose up to 20% of their body weight.  The new medications are in the GLP 1 class.  

Insurance often will not pay for these medications when used for weight loss only.  

Per GoodRX, the lowest retail price for these medications ranges from $1,000 - $1,400 per month. 

Combining tirzepatide with Vitamin B 12 allows compound pharmacies to sell the product at a fraction of the cost.

There is a one-time fee of $129 for your initial office visit and Physician consultation.  This does not include the cost of labs (around $40) or medication (see pricing information below in FAQ).

Benefits of GLP 1 medication

Intensive research is underway in the medical field concerning the potential benefits of GLP 1 in managing heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other chronic conditions.

Weight loss is recognized as beneficial for the treatment and management of symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea, diabetes, and musculoskeletal disorders, including arthritis.

FAQ:

What is the cost of the medication?

Dosing per patient can vary.  Each patient will be started at 2.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks.  We will then discuss your results and determine if you need a higher dose.   Most patients respond to dosing between 2.5 mg - 10 mg per week.  

Your credit card will be charge at time of medication order.

Medication Pricing Summary:

Each vial (20 mg) will cost $445, overnight cold shipping is included in the price.

** Derby City Direct Primary Care members will receive a discount of $50 per month on Tirzepatide medication.

** Doses per vial (20 mg)

2.5 mg per week = 8 doses

5.0 mg per week = 4 doses

7.5 mg per week = 2.5 doses

10.0 mg per week = 2 doses

How much weight can I lose?  Here is a link to a research publication in the New England Journal of Medicine dated July 21, 2022 titled "Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity".  The study consisted of 2,539 adults treated over a 72 week trial period.  Participants lost weight at 5 mg, 10 mg, & 15 mg of tirzepatide.  The average weight loss at 72 weeks ranged from 15% - 20.9% depending on dosing.  

What are the side affects?  The most common side effect is nausea after injection when increasing dose.  By slowly increasing the dose, we can reduce the potential side effects.  We can also prescribe anti-nausea medication.  Other side effects will be discussed at your office visit.

How does dosing work?

Your initial dose will be once a week of 2.5 mg.  If needed, prior to each refill we will review your progress and adjust your dosing.

Once we achieve the desired effect of safe weight loss, your dosing will remain at that level.  Research has shown that patients can lose weight at 2.5 mg - 10 mg per week.

How often are the injections?  Once a week.

Can unused medication be returned?  No.

Where will medication be shipped?  Your medication will be shipped to your home.  During your office visit with Dr. Lovelace you will be trained on dosing and self injection.  

Do I need to purchase supplies like needles or syringes?

We will provide syringes and alcohol wipes.  You can purchase a sharps disposal container at our clinic for $5 and follow the City of Louisville guidelines.  https://louisvilleky.gov/health-wellness/document/sharpsdisposalflyerpdf

Do I need to come to office for my initial treatment?  We recommend that the first dose be given in the office, but it is not required.

Do I need labs?  Yes, it is important to have current labs (CBC, CMP, TSH, A1C, Ferritin, Lipid Panel) before starting the medication.  Estimated lab cost is $40.  We will accept recent labs (less than 6 months old) from your PCP's office.

Can I use health insurance?  No, we accept cash, credit card, debit card and HSA.

Do I have to be a member of Derby City Direct Primary Care to get Tirzepatide? No, but members due receive a $50 discount with each order.