💊GLP-1 Drug Tips

Questions to Ask Before Starting a GLP-1

A practical list of questions to bring to your prescriber — organized by topic so nothing important gets left out of a short appointment.

By GLP-1 Drug Tips Editorial TeamLast updated: June 2025
Important: This article provides general educational information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medications or health conditions.
Key Takeaways
  • ✓Appointment time is limited — writing your questions in advance helps you use it well.
  • ✓Ask about your specific medication, not GLP-1s in general — details vary by drug.
  • ✓Ask what to do if side effects occur, before they occur.
  • ✓Understand the insurance and cost picture before leaving the appointment.
  • ✓Ask what success looks like and when you'll check back in.

Appointment time with a prescriber is often limited. Having a written list of questions helps you make the most of it — and ensures that practical details don't get lost in a short visit. The questions below are intended as conversation starters. Your provider is the right person to answer them based on your specific health situation.

Questions About Whether This Medication Is Right for You

  • Based on my health history, is this specific GLP-1 medication appropriate for me?
  • Are there any conditions I have or medications I take that would make this medication less suitable or require extra monitoring?
  • What are the FDA-approved uses for this specific medication?
  • Are there other treatment options I should consider alongside or instead of a GLP-1?

Questions About How to Take It

  • What is the correct way to inject this medication?
  • What dose am I starting on, and what is my titration schedule?
  • What day should I take my injection, and does it matter if I take it at different times of day?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • Are there foods, drinks, or other medications I should avoid while taking this?

Questions About Side Effects

  • What side effects are commonly associated with this medication?
  • Which side effects would require me to call you or seek care right away?
  • What usually helps manage nausea if it occurs?
  • What should I do if side effects feel severe or unmanageable?
  • Are there any symptoms that would be a reason to stop this medication immediately?

Questions About Storage and Handling

  • How should I store this medication, and does that change once I've opened the pen?
  • How long can the in-use pen be kept at room temperature?
  • How do I properly dispose of used pen needles?

Questions About Cost and Insurance

  • Is prior authorization likely to be required for this medication with my insurance?
  • Is there a manufacturer copay card or patient assistance program available?
  • What happens to my prescription if my insurance changes?
  • Who should I contact if I have trouble affording this medication?

Questions About Follow-Up and Success

  • What does success on this medication look like for my specific situation?
  • How will we track whether this medication is working?
  • When should I come back for a follow-up?
  • How long do most patients typically stay on this medication?
  • Is there anything I should track or record between now and my next appointment?

Questions to Ask Your Pharmacist

Your pharmacist is also an excellent resource for medication-specific questions:

  • Can you show me the correct way to use this pen and attach a needle?
  • Are there any interactions I should know about with my other medications or supplements?
  • What does the titration schedule look like for this specific medication?
  • Does this pharmacy have a sharps disposal program?

How to Keep Track of Questions Between Appointments

Keep a running note on your phone or a small notebook for questions that come up between appointments. Many healthcare providers also have patient portals where you can send non-urgent questions electronically. See our guide on how to prepare for a GLP-1 appointment.

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