Do I need an in-person exam for Mounjaro?

Introduction

The landscape of weight loss treatment has been transformed by GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro. As these medications gain popularity, many patients wonder if they can access them through telehealth services without visiting a doctor’s office. The good news is that in most states, you can legally obtain GLP-1 weight loss medications through telehealth consultations.

This comprehensive guide explains the current telehealth prescribing rules for GLP-1 medications across the United States, breaking down state-specific requirements and helping you understand how to access these treatments legitimately and safely.

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Can You Get GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications Through Telehealth?

Yes, you can legally get GLP-1 weight loss medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, or Mounjaro through telehealth in most U.S. states. Because these drugs are not controlled substances, federal law does not require an in-person visit before prescribing.

However, individual state laws vary in their requirements, with some mandating an initial in-person evaluation or periodic follow-up visits. Understanding your state’s specific regulations can help you navigate the telehealth process for obtaining GLP-1 prescriptions.

Federal Telehealth Prescribing Rules for GLP-1s

Before diving into state-specific regulations, it’s important to understand the federal landscape:

• Non-controlled medication status: GLP-1s like Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are not controlled substances under federal law, meaning they’re not subject to the Ryan Haight Act’s in-person requirements.

• DEA regulations: The DEA’s COVID-era telehealth flexibilities (extended through December 31, 2025) primarily affect controlled substances like Adderall or buprenorphine – not GLP-1 medications.

• FDA oversight: The FDA has approved specific GLP-1s for weight loss (Wegovy) and diabetes (Ozempic, Mounjaro), with Ozempic commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss.

• Compounding restrictions: In May 2025, the FDA effectively banned retail compounding of semaglutide for weight loss, requiring patients to use FDA-approved versions.

State-by-State Telehealth Regulations for GLP-1 Prescriptions

The following table summarizes key telehealth prescribing rules for GLP-1 weight loss medications across major states:

Who Can Prescribe GLP-1 Medications via Telehealth?

Provider qualifications vary by state:

• MDs and DOs: Licensed physicians can prescribe GLP-1s via telehealth in all states (if licensed in the patient’s state)

• Nurse Practitioners (NPs): Can prescribe in all states, but authority levels differ:

• Full independence: About half of states allow NPs to prescribe without physician oversight (WA, NY, CA, etc.)

• Collaborative practice: Other states require supervision or collaboration agreements (TX, FL, PA)

• Physician Assistants (PAs): Generally require physician supervision with varying levels of autonomy by state

What to Expect During a Legitimate Telehealth Consultation for GLP-1s

A reputable telehealth provider like Klarity Health will conduct a comprehensive assessment before prescribing GLP-1 medications:

1. Medical history review: Detailed questionnaire about your health conditions, medications, allergies, and weight history

2. BMI verification: Documentation of height/weight to confirm you meet clinical criteria (typically BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with weight-related conditions)

3. Video consultation: Live interaction with a licensed provider to discuss treatment options

4. Treatment plan: Personalized approach including medication, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up schedule

5. Informed consent: Discussion of potential side effects, risks, and benefits

6. Laboratory monitoring: Many providers request baseline blood work and periodic testing

7. Regular follow-ups: Typically every 1-3 months to assess progress and adjust treatment

Telehealth GLP-1 Prescription Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for GLP-1 weight loss medication through telehealth, you generally need to meet these criteria:

• BMI requirements: Typically ≥30, or ≥27 with comorbidities (diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, etc.)

• Previous weight loss attempts: Many providers require documentation of prior diet and exercise efforts

• Medical appropriateness: No contraindications such as:

• Personal/family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2

• Pregnancy or planning pregnancy

• Active gallbladder disease

• History of pancreatitis

• Severe gastrointestinal disorders

Red Flags: What to Watch Out For

Not all telehealth services offering GLP-1 medications are created equal. Be cautious of providers that:

• Guarantee a prescription without a thorough evaluation
• Offer ‘compounded’ or overseas versions of semaglutide (FDA banned most compounded Wegovy copies in 2025)
• Don’t schedule follow-ups or monitor your progress
• Lack transparency about provider credentials or state licensing
• Skip discussions about risks, side effects, and alternatives
• Request payment before a consultation occurs
• Have no physical address or clinic affiliation

How Klarity Health Provides Safe, Legal Telehealth GLP-1 Access

At Klarity Health, we prioritize patient safety and regulatory compliance when prescribing GLP-1 medications:

• Comprehensive screening: Our providers conduct thorough evaluations to determine medical appropriateness
• Licensed providers: All Klarity clinicians are fully licensed in the states where they practice
• Transparent pricing: Clear cost information for both insurance and self-pay options
• Ongoing support: Regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust treatment
• State-compliant care: Our protocols meet all state-specific requirements for telehealth prescribing
• Medication management: We help navigate insurance coverage, prior authorizations, and pharmacy options

Common Questions About Telehealth GLP-1 Prescriptions

Are online GLP-1 prescriptions legal?

Yes, in most states, licensed providers can legally prescribe FDA-approved GLP-1 medications via telehealth. However, some states require an initial in-person evaluation or follow specific protocols.

How quickly can I get a GLP-1 prescription through telehealth?

With Klarity Health, most patients can complete their initial consultation within days of scheduling. If appropriate, a prescription can be sent to your pharmacy immediately after the appointment, though insurance prior authorizations may take additional time.

Will insurance cover GLP-1 medications prescribed through telehealth?

Many insurance plans cover GLP-1 medications when prescribed according to FDA guidelines and plan-specific criteria. Klarity Health works with most major insurance providers an

Source:

• https://www.axios.com/2024/11/18/covid-telehealth-prescribing-extended-adderall#:~:text=The%20Drug%20Enforcement%20Administration%20,year%20extension
• https://www.dea.gov/documents/2024/2024-11/2024-11-15/dea-and-hhs-extend-telemedicine-flexibilities-through-2025#:~:text=telemedicine%20flexibilities%20through%20December%2031%2C,HHS%20on%20November%2015%2C%202024
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-signals-extension-of-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-for-2026/#:~:text=A%20new%20rule%20posted%20on,date%20of%20December%2031%2C%202025
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=,a%20final%20set%20of%20regulations
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=31%2C%202024.%20,In%20February%202023%2C%20the%20DEA
• https://www.mwe.com/insights/dea-extends-telemedicine-flexibilities-for-controlled-substance-prescribing-through-december-31-2025/#:~:text=to%20perform%20an%20in,rule%20regarding%20telemedicine%20prescribing%20of
• https://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/release/whitehouse-murkowski-warner-blackburn-urge-white-house-and-dea-to-extend-telehealth-flexibilities-for-substance-use-disorder-and-mental-health-treatment/#:~:text=Whitehouse%2C%20Murkowski%2C%20Warner%2C%20Blackburn%20Urge,substance%20use%20disorder%20treatment%20Washington
• https://natlawreview.com/article/arkansas-it-again-telemedicine-regulation-arkansas-undergoes-additional-change#:~:text=Arkansas%20currently%20has%20one%20of,person%20examination
• https://www.nextech.com/blog/semaglutide-laws-by-state#:~:text=Who%20can%20prescribe%20semaglutide%3F%20,
• https://natlawreview.com/article/arkansas-it-again-telemedicine-regulation-arkansas-undergoes-additional-change#:~:text=Arkansas%20currently%20has%20one%20of,encounter%20to%20establish%20a%20valid