Weight loss Program

Achieving your desired weight loss with diet and exercise alone can be difficult.  In the past year new medications have become available that help patients lose up to 20% of their body weight.  Theses medications are in the GLP-1 class.  Some examples include Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda.

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

Per GoodRX, the lowest retail price for these medications range from $1,000 - $1,300 per month. 

Tirzepitide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro.  Combining tirzepatide with Vitamin B 12  or Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) allows compound pharmacies to sell the product at a fraction of the cost.

Derby City Direct Primary Care is now offering this weight loss program which is included with your membership.  To learn more about becoming a member click here.

FAQ:

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.

How does dosing work?

Your initial dose will be once a week of 2.5 mg.  At 4-6 weeks we will discuss the option of increasing your dose by 2.5 mg.  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 5 - 15 mg per week.

How often are the injections?  Once a week.

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 - 10 mg per week.  

Medication Pricing Summary:

2.5 mg dose - $249 for 4 doses

5.0 mg dose - $299 for 4 doses

7.5 mg dose - $349 for 4 doses

10.0 mg dose - $399 for 4 doses

12.5 mg dose - $449 for 4 doses

15.0 mg dose - $499 for 4 doses

** The monthly membership is $99 per month which include free office visits with Dr. Lovelace.

Can unused medication be returned?  No.

Where will medication be shipped?  Your first shipment and dosing will be done in the office.  After that, the medication will be shipped to your home.

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?  Yes, the initial visit and medication dosing will be in person.

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 discuss options for getting labs at your first visit.  We will accept recent labs (less than 6 months) from your PCP's office.

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

What is the weight loss program?   As a member of Derby City Direct Primary Care we can approach your weight loss plan from a holistic perspective.  Before beginning any weight loss treatment it is important to have a physical exam and labs to determine your baseline health.

Do I have to pay $99/mo for the weight loss program and $99/mo for the Derby City Direct Primary Care membership?  No.  The $99/mo Derby City Direct Primary Care membership includes the weight loss program.  Medication costs are no included to the membership fee.

Do I have to give up my regular PCP?  No, you are welcome to keep seeing all of your regular doctors.

Is there a minimum contract length?  No.  The membership is month to month.  For new patients we recommend treatment for 3 months to determine the right dose for you.