Do I need an in-person exam for Wegovy in Florida?

If you’ve been considering medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, or Mounjaro for weight loss, you might be wondering: Can I actually get these prescribed through telehealth? The short answer is yes—but the details matter.

With obesity affecting over 40% of U.S. adults and groundbreaking GLP-1 medications now available, telehealth has emerged as a convenient, legitimate pathway to treatment. However, navigating state laws, provider qualifications, and safety standards can feel overwhelming.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting weight loss medication through telehealth in 2025, including federal regulations, state-by-state differences, what to expect from your virtual visit, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications and Telehealth Legality

What Are GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists—including semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)—are injectable medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes that have proven remarkably effective for weight management. These medications work by mimicking natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar.

Key medications available via telehealth:

• Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg): FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management
• Ozempic (semaglutide 0.5-1mg): FDA-approved for diabetes; commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss
• Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide): Dual-action medication approved for both diabetes and obesity

Unlike older diet pills that are controlled substances, GLP-1 medications are not scheduled drugs. This distinction is crucial because it means federal law doesn’t require an in-person visit before prescribing them via telehealth.

Federal Law: The Green Light for Telehealth Prescribing

Under the Ryan Haight Act, controlled substances generally require an in-person examination before a provider can prescribe them via telemedicine. However, since GLP-1 medications are non-controlled substances, this federal restriction doesn’t apply.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) waived in-person requirements even for controlled medications. While those temporary flexibilities have been extended through December 31, 2025, GLP-1 weight loss medications have always been—and continue to be—fully prescribable via telehealth under federal law.

What this means for you: A licensed healthcare provider can evaluate you through a video consultation and send a prescription electronically to your pharmacy, all without requiring you to visit an office in person.

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How State Laws Affect Your Telehealth Access

While federal law permits telehealth prescribing of GLP-1 medications, state regulations vary significantly. Some states have additional requirements that affect how—and sometimes whether—you can access these medications remotely.

States With Minimal Restrictions

Many states fully embrace telehealth for weight loss treatment with no special barriers:

California, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington all allow providers to prescribe GLP-1 medications after a comprehensive telehealth evaluation—no in-person visit required. These states recognize that a thorough video consultation, combined with patient-reported measurements and medical history, can establish an appropriate treatment relationship.

For example, in Washington, a pioneering telehealth state, providers can prescribe weight loss medications entirely remotely while maintaining the same standard of care as in-person visits. The state’s My Health My Data Act also ensures your sensitive health information remains protected during virtual care.

States Requiring Initial In-Person Visits

Several states mandate that patients complete an initial in-person physical examination before or shortly after beginning telehealth weight loss treatment:

Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Virginia all have regulations requiring some form of in-person contact, particularly for weight loss medications.

For instance, New Jersey requires a comprehensive initial evaluation including physical examination, laboratory work, and psychological screening before prescribing any weight-loss drug. Texas generally expects an in-person exam to establish care, though the specific timing can be flexible depending on clinical circumstances.

Important note: Even in these states, telehealth is still an option—you’ll just need to coordinate an initial in-person visit (which can sometimes be with a local provider for the exam, with ongoing care managed via telehealth).

States With Ongoing Monitoring Requirements

Some states don’t just want an initial visit—they require regular check-ins:

Florida mandates that patients prescribed obesity medications have a BMI of 30 or higher (or 27+ with comorbidities) and be seen at least once every three months during treatment. While these follow-ups can be conducted via telehealth, the regularity requirement ensures continuous monitoring.

Virginia requires a follow-up visit within 30 days of starting any weight-loss medication, plus documented diet and exercise counseling as part of the treatment plan.

Connecticut takes a holistic approach, requiring that obesity treatment include behavioral counseling and lifestyle modification plans alongside medication.

Provider Licensing: A Critical Consideration

Regardless of state requirements, your telehealth provider must be licensed in the state where you physically reside during the consultation. This is non-negotiable.

Many reputable telehealth platforms, including Klarity Health, employ or contract with providers licensed across multiple states, making it easier to access care wherever you are. Before scheduling a consultation, confirm the platform serves your state and employs appropriately licensed clinicians.

Who Can Prescribe GLP-1 Medications Via Telehealth?

Physicians (MDs and DOs)

Medical doctors and doctors of osteopathic medicine can prescribe GLP-1 weight loss medications in all 50 states via telehealth, provided they hold a valid license in the patient’s state.

Nurse Practitioners (NPs)

Nurse practitioners are increasingly providing obesity care via telehealth, but their prescriptive authority varies dramatically by state:

Full Practice Authority States (34 states + DC): NPs can practice independently and prescribe medications without physician oversight. States like California, Arizona, New York, Washington, Utah, and Virginia grant NPs full autonomy after meeting experience requirements (typically 2-3 years of supervised practice).

Reduced Practice States: NPs can prescribe but must have a collaborative agreement or supervisory relationship with a physician. Examples include Florida, Georgia (where NPs recently gained authority to prescribe Schedule II drugs with physician delegation), and Pennsylvania.

Restricted Practice States: A small handful of states require significant physician involvement. Texas, for instance, mandates that NPs work under formal physician agreements and cannot prescribe certain medication classes independently—though GLP-1 medications are permitted with proper delegation.

What this means for patients: You may see an NP for your telehealth weight loss consultation, and this is completely appropriate and legal. NPs receive specialized training in primary care and chronic disease management, making them well-qualified to prescribe and monitor GLP-1 therapy.

Physician Assistants (PAs)

Physician assistants can also prescribe GLP-1 medications in most states, typically under collaborative agreements similar to NPs. Like nurse practitioners, PAs are licensed healthcare professionals fully capable of managing weight loss treatment when working within their state’s scope of practice.

At Klarity Health, we ensure all providers—whether MDs, DOs, NPs, or PAs—meet rigorous credentialing standards and are licensed and authorized to practice in your state. You can trust you’re receiving care from qualified professionals regardless of their credential type.

What to Expect From Your Telehealth Weight Loss Consultation

Understanding the process can help you prepare and ensure you get the most from your virtual visit.

Comprehensive Medical Evaluation

Reputable telehealth providers don’t simply hand out prescriptions. Expect a thorough evaluation that includes:

Detailed Medical History:

• Current and past medical conditions
• Previous weight loss attempts and outcomes
• Medications and supplements you’re currently taking
• Any history of thyroid disorders, pancreatitis, or gallbladder disease
• Family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)

Current Health Assessment:

• Height and weight (you’ll typically self-report or provide recent measurements)
• Blood pressure and vital signs when available
• Calculation of your Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Discussion of any current symptoms or concerns

Contraindication Screening:GLP-1 medications aren’t appropriate for everyone. Your provider will screen for:

• Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant (these medications must be stopped before conception)
• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer
• History of severe gastrointestinal disorders like gastroparesis
• Active gallbladder disease or history of pancreatitis
• Certain psychiatric conditions

BMI and Medical Necessity Criteria

To qualify for GLP-1 weight loss medications, you generally need to meet one of these criteria:

• BMI ≥ 30 (classified as obesity)
• BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, or sleep apnea

These aren’t arbitrary thresholds—they reflect the FDA-approved indications and evidence-based medicine. Legitimate telehealth providers follow these guidelines carefully.

Common misconception: ‘I can get Ozempic online to lose 10 pounds for vacation.’ This isn’t how medical weight loss works. If you’re only slightly overweight without medical complications, a qualified provider will recommend lifestyle modifications rather than medication. GLP-1 drugs are powerful tools for chronic weight management in patients who truly need them, not quick fixes for cosmetic goals.

Lifestyle Counseling Component

Weight loss medication is most effective—and safest—when combined with lifestyle changes. Your telehealth provider should discuss:

• Nutrition and dietary modifications
• Physical activity and exercise plans appropriate for your fitness level
• Behavioral strategies for sustainable weight management
• Realistic expectations (gradual weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week is typical)

Some states, like Connecticut, legally require behavioral counseling as part of obesity treatment. But even where it’s not mandated, comprehensive care addresses the whole picture, not just the prescription.

Informed Consent and Risk Discussion

Before prescribing, your provider must explain:

Common side effects:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation (especially during dose titration)
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Potential for gallstone formation with rapid weight loss

Serious risks:

• Black box warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors (based on rodent studies; significance in humans unknown)
• Risk of pancreatitis
• Potential for hypoglycemia, especially in patients also taking diabetes medications
• Rare cases of severe allergic reactions

States like New Jersey and Virginia specifically require documented informed consent for weight-loss drug therapy, but this should be standard practice everywhere.

Lab Work and Monitoring

While initial lab tests aren’t always required for telehealth consultations, many providers will request:

• Comprehensive metabolic panel (to check kidney and liver function, electrolytes)
• Hemoglobin A1C (if you have diabetes or prediabetes)
• Thyroid function tests (TSH, especially if you have symptoms of thyroid dysfunction)
• Lipid panel (cholesterol levels)

Some states explicitly require baseline laboratory work. New Jersey mandates comprehensive lab testing before prescribing, and Virginia requires documentation of initial lab results as part of the treatment plan.

Your provider may either order these tests (which you’d complete at a local lab) or ask you to provide recent results if available. For ongoing treatment, periodic lab monitoring every 3-6 months is common practice.

The Treatment Process: From Consultation to Prescription

Initial Prescription and Titration

GLP-1 medications typically start at a low dose and gradually increase to minimize side effects:

Wegovy titration schedule:

• Month 1: 0.25mg weekly
• Month 2: 0.5mg weekly
• Month 3: 1mg weekly
• Month 4: 1.7mg weekly
• Month 5+: 2.4mg weekly (maintenance dose)

Your initial prescription is often for 4 weeks to assess how you tolerate the medication. This cautious approach allows your provider to monitor your response and adjust as needed.

Follow-Up Visits and Monitoring

Regular follow-up is essential for safe, effective treatment:

First follow-up: Typically scheduled 2-4 weeks after starting medication to assess:

• Tolerance and side effects
• Initial weight response
• Any concerns or questions
• Dose adjustment needs

Ongoing monitoring: Most providers schedule visits every 1-3 months during active treatment to:

• Track weight loss progress
• Monitor for side effects
• Adjust dosing as appropriate
• Review labs periodically
• Reinforce lifestyle modifications

Some states mandate specific follow-up schedules. Florida requires at least quarterly visits, while Virginia mandates a check-in within 30 days of starting therapy.

At Klarity Health, we schedule regular video follow-ups as part of your treatment plan, ensuring continuous oversight and support throughout your weight loss journey. Our providers are available between scheduled visits if you have concerns or questions.

Prescription Refills and Duration

Supply limits: While there’s no federal restriction on supply length for GLP-1 medications, most telehealth providers initially prescribe:

• 30 days for the first 2-3 months (during titration)
• 30-90 days once you’re on a stable maintenance dose

Refills: Your provider may authorize refills (for example, a 90-day prescription with two refills for nine months total), but many telehealth programs prefer regular check-ins to reassess appropriateness and safety.

Long-term treatment: GLP-1 medications for obesity are intended for chronic, long-term use. These aren’t short-term diet pills—they work by fundamentally changing appetite regulation, and discontinuation often leads to weight regain. Your provider will work with you to determine the appropriate treatment duration based on your individual response and goals.

What Happens at the Pharmacy

Once your provider sends the prescription:

1. Electronic prescribing: Most states now require e-prescriptions, which are sent directly to your chosen pharmacy
2. Insurance verification: The pharmacy will check your insurance coverage (if applicable)
3. Out-of-pocket costs: If you’re paying cash or your insurance doesn’t cover the medication, be prepared for significant costs—brand-name GLP-1s can range from $900-$1,400 per month without coverage
4. Injection training: Pharmacists can provide instruction on proper injection technique, though many telehealth providers also offer this education

Important medication note: You must fill these prescriptions at a licensed U.S. pharmacy. As of May 2025, the FDA banned most compounded versions of semaglutide for weight loss due to safety concerns. Avoid websites offering ‘cheaper’ compounded alternatives or overseas versions—these may be counterfeit, contaminated, or incorrectly dosed.

Insurance Coverage vs. Cash Pay for Telehealth Weight Loss Treatment

Insurance Coverage Landscape

Insurance coverage for GLP-1 weight loss medications is evolving but remains inconsistent:

Medicare: As of 2025, does not cover weight loss medications (though Medicare does cover Ozempic and Mounjaro for diabetes treatment). Legislative efforts to change this are ongoing but haven’t yet succeeded.

Medicaid: Coverage varies dramatically by state. Some state Medicaid programs cover obesity medications under certain circumstances; others don’t cover them at all.

Private insurance: Coverage depends on your specific plan. Many employer-sponsored plans now include obesity medication benefits, but:

• Prior authorization is almost always required
• You may need to meet specific criteria (documented BMI, failed diet attempts, etc.)
• Tier placement affects copays (these drugs are usually specialty tier with higher cost-sharing)
• Some plans exclude weight loss drugs entirely

The telehealth visit itself is usually covered if you have telehealth benefits, but the medication cost is a separate issue.

Cash-Pay Telehealth Options

Given insurance complexities, many patients opt for cash-pay telehealth services:

Advantages:

• No insurance hassles, prior authorizations, or denials
• Faster access to treatment
• Transparent, upfront pricing
• Privacy (no insurance claims reporting your weight loss treatment)

Cost considerations:

• Telehealth consultation fees: Typically $50-$200 for initial visit, $40-$100 for follow-ups
• Medication costs without insurance: $900-$1,400/month for brand-name drugs

Some telehealth platforms offer membership models with bundled visit costs. Others, like Klarity Health, offer transparent pricing and accept both insurance and self-pay options, giving you flexibility based on your situation.

Manufacturer savings programs: If you’re paying out-of-pocket, check if you qualify for manufacturer copay cards or patient assistance:

• Novo Nordisk (Wegovy/Ozempic) offers savings cards that may reduce costs
• Eli Lilly (Mounjaro/Zepbound) has similar programs
• Eligibility requirements vary (often exclude patients with government insurance)

Red Flags: How to Identify Questionable Telehealth Services

The surge in demand for GLP-1 medications has unfortunately attracted some bad actors. Protect yourself by watching for these warning signs:

Guarantee of Prescription Without Evaluation

Red flag: Any service that promises you’ll get a prescription without a comprehensive medical evaluation.

Why it matters: Legitimate providers need to assess your medical history, contraindications, and appropriateness for treatment. A 5-minute questionnaire isn’t sufficient for prescribing powerful medications.

What to look for instead: A thorough intake process including detailed medical history, live video consultation with a licensed provider, and honest discussion about whether medication is right for you.

Offering Compounded or Overseas Medications

Red flag: Websites selling ‘affordable’ compounded semaglutide or medications shipped from overseas pharmacies.

Why it matters: The FDA banned routine compounding of semaglutide for weight loss in May 2025 due to quality and safety concerns. Overseas medications bypass FDA oversight and may be counterfeit, contaminated, or improperly stored.

What to look for instead: Prescriptions filled at licensed U.S. pharmacies using FDA-approved medications. Your provider should explicitly discuss using brand-name, FDA-approved drugs.

No Follow-Up or Monitoring Plan

Red flag: Services that prescribe medication but don’t schedule follow-up appointments or provide ongoing monitoring.

Why it matters: GLP-1 therapy requires regular monitoring for side effects, dose adjustments, and treatment effectiveness. ‘Prescribe and forget’ approaches are medically inappropriate and potentially dangerous.

What to look for instead: Clear follow-up schedule, accessible providers between appointments, and a comprehensive treatment plan that includes ongoing care.

Unclear Provider Credentials or Licensing

Red flag: Inability to verify who your provider is, what state they’re licensed in, or their credentials.

Why it matters: Your provider must be licensed in your state. You have the right to know who’s prescribing your medication and confirm their qualifications.

What to look for instead: Transparent information about providers (names, credentials, license numbers), clear statements about state licensing, and easy access to this information before you pay.

Pressure Tactics or Unrealistic Promises

Red flag: Claims like ‘Lose 30 pounds in 30 days!’ or pressure to start treatment immediately without time to consider.

Why it matters: Weight loss with GLP-1 medications is gradual—typically 1-2 pounds per week. Unrealistic promises and high-pressure sales tactics indicate a business model focused on profit over patient care.

What to look for instead: Realistic expectations, honest discussion of results and timelines, and providers who respect your autonomy to make informed decisions.

Lack of Informed Consent Process

Red flag: No discussion of risks, side effects, or alternatives before prescribing.

Why it matters: You need complete information to make an informed decision. Some states legally require documented informed consent for weight-loss drugs.

What to look for instead: Thorough review of potential side effects, contraindications, and alternative approaches. Written consent forms documenting that you understand the risks and benefits.

Why Klarity Health Stands Out for Telehealth Weight Management

When choosing a telehealth provider for weight loss treatment, you deserve a service that prioritizes your safety, provides genuine medical expertise, and makes the process straightforward.

Licensed Providers Across Multiple States

Klarity Health employs board-certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants licensed in the states we serve. We don’t cut corners on credentials—every provider undergoes rigorous credentialing verification, and we ensure appropriate licensure in your state before your consultation.

Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care

Our approach goes beyond simply writing prescriptions:

• Thorough initial evaluations that assess your complete medical history, current health status, and treatment goals
• Personalized treatment plans that combine medication (when appropriate) with lifestyle guidance
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor progress, adjust treatment, and address concerns
• Easy access to your care team between scheduled appointments if questions arise

Transparent, Fair Pricing

We believe healthcare pricing shouldn’t be a mystery:

• Clear upfront costs for consultations—no hidden fees
• Accept both insurance and cash pay, giving you flexibility based on your coverage situation
• Help navigating manufacturer savings programs and insurance benefits when applicable

FDA-Approved Medications Only

Klarity Health prescribes only FDA-approved, brand-name medications filled through licensed U.S. pharmacies. We don’t offer compounded alternatives or overseas medications. Your safety is non-negotiable.

Convenient Access, High Standards

• Quick appointment availability—often within days rather than weeks
• Evening and weekend options to fit your schedule
• Video consultations from wherever you’re comfortable
• Same standards of medical care you’d receive in a traditional office setting

Whether you’re just exploring options or ready to begin treatment, Klarity Health provides the medical expertise and support you need for safe, effective weight management through telehealth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to visit a doctor in person before getting weight loss medication through telehealth?

It depends on your state and the specific medication. Under federal law, GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro can be prescribed via telehealth without an in-person visit because they’re not controlled substances. However, some states (Arkansas, Georgia, New Jersey, Texas, and several others) require an initial in-person examination before or shortly after beginning treatment. Check your state’s specific requirements in our detailed state table above.

Can nurse practitioners prescribe weight loss medications via telehealth?

Yes, in most states. Nurse practitioners can prescribe GLP-1 medications in all 50 states, though the level of physician oversight required varies. Thirty-four states plus DC grant NPs full practice authority to prescribe independently, while others require collaborative agreements with physicians. Regardless of oversight requirements, NPs are fully qualified to manage weight loss treatment when practicing within their state’s scope of practice.

How much does telehealth weight loss treatment cost?

Costs vary based on whether you use insurance or pay out-of-pocket. Consultation fees typically range from $50-$200 for initial visits and $40-$100 for follow-ups. The medications themselves can cost $900-$1,400 per month without insurance coverage. Many patients find cash-pay telehealth services more straightforward than navigating insurance prior authorizations, though some insurance plans do cover obesity medications. Klarity Health accepts both insurance and self-pay, with transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.

Are compounded versions of Wegovy or Ozempic safe to use?

The FDA banned most compounded semaglutide for weight loss in May 2025 due to quality and safety concerns. Compounding pharmacies may not maintain the same standards as FDA-regulated manufacturers, leading to potential issues with dosing accuracy, sterility, or ingredient quality. Reputable telehealth providers prescribe only FDA-approved, brand-name medications filled through licensed U.S. pharmacies. Avoid services offering ‘cheaper’ compounded alternatives—they may not be safe or legal.

How quickly can I start treatment through telehealth?

With many telehealth services, including Klarity Health, you can often schedule a consultation within days. If you’re medically appropriate for treatment and meet your state’s requirements, your provider can send a prescription to your pharmacy the same day as your visit. The timeline from first appointment to starting medication is typically 1-2 weeks, accounting for insurance verification or prior authorization if needed (longer with insurance, faster with cash pay).

What happens if I have side effects from the medication?

Your telehealth provider should be accessible if you experience side effects. Mild side effects like nausea, decreased appetite, or digestive changes are common and often improve as your body adjusts. Your provider may adjust your dose or recommend strategies to manage symptoms. If you experience severe side effects like persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or signs of pancreatitis, you should contact your provider immediately and may need in-person emergency evaluation. Quality telehealth services, like Klarity Health, ensure you have clear instructions on when to call and how to reach your care team.

Will my weight loss treatment through telehealth be confidential?

Yes. Telehealth providers are bound by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) just like traditional healthcare providers. Your medical information, including the fact that you’re using weight loss medication, is protected health information. If you use insurance, your insurer will have a record of your treatment, but your information isn’t shared beyond what’s necessary for billing. Cash-pay options provide additional privacy since there’s no insurance claim. Some states have additional privacy protections—for example, Washington’s My Health My Data Act adds extra safeguards for sensitive health information in telehealth settings.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Weight Loss Goals

Telehealth has transformed access to medical weight management, making evidence-based obesity treatment more convenient and accessible than ever before. If you’ve struggled with weight and are ready to explore whether GLP-1 medications might be right for you, there’s no need to wait for a months-long appointment or navigate complex referral processes.

Ready to get started? Klarity Health makes it simple:

1. Complete a brief health assessment online to see if you may be a candidate for treatment
2. Schedule a video consultation with a licensed provider in your state—often available within days
3. Receive a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals
4. Get your prescription sent to your preferred pharmacy if medically appropriate
5. Access ongoing support with regular follow-ups and responsive care between visits

Don’t let outdated barriers stand between you and effective weight management. Schedule your consultation with Klarity Health today and take the first step toward sustainable weight loss with the convenience of telehealth and the expertise of caring medical professionals.

[Schedule Your Consultation →]

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Weight loss medications are not appropriate for everyone. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if treatment is right for you based on your individual health status, medical history, and weight loss goals.

References and Sources

This guide was researched using current federal regulations, state laws, and authoritative medical sources verified as of December 17, 2025:

1. DEA and HHS Extend Telemedicine Flexibilities through 2025 – U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Official Announcement, November 15, 2024. www.dea.gov

2. COVID-era telehealth prescribing extended – Axios News, November 18, 2024. Confirms DEA extension of telehealth flexibilities for controlled substances through December 31, 2025. www.axios.com

3. DEA Extends Telemedicine Flexibilities for Controlled Substance Prescribing Through December 31, 2025 – McDermott Will & Emery Legal Insight, November 18, 2024. Expert analysis of DEA regulations and temporary waivers, including discussion of the Ryan Haight Act and non-controlled substance exemptions. www.mwe.com

4. Changing Regulatory and Reimbursement Landscape for Weight-Loss Drugs – Goodwin Procter Law Firm Client Alert, March 27, 2024. Comprehensive analysis of state-specific regulations for obesity medications including Florida, New Jersey, and Virginia requirements. www.goodwinlaw.com

5. Know Your State’s Laws Around Semaglutide – Nextech Healthcare Blog, April 11, 2025. State-by-state breakdown of semaglutide prescribing requirements, including in-person examination mandates and provider qualifications. www.nextech.com

Last updated: December 17, 2025. Federal telehealth rules for controlled substances are temporary and set to expire December 31, 2025—additional extensions or new regulations are expected. State laws continue to evolve; readers should verify current requirements in their specific state.

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