How to transfer my Ozempic prescription to New York

If you’ve been wondering whether you can get prescription weight loss medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, or Mounjaro through telehealth, you’re not alone. With millions of Americans exploring GLP-1 medications for weight management, virtual healthcare has become a convenient, accessible option—but navigating the legal landscape can feel overwhelming.

The good news? Yes, you can legally get GLP-1 weight loss medications through telehealth in the United States. Because these medications are not controlled substances, federal law doesn’t require an in-person visit before prescribing them. However, state-specific regulations can vary significantly, and understanding these differences is crucial to accessing safe, legitimate care.

This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about telehealth prescribing for weight loss medications, including federal regulations, state-by-state requirements, provider qualifications, and what to expect from your virtual visit.

Understanding Federal Telehealth Rules for Weight Loss Medications

GLP-1 Medications Are Not Controlled Substances

One of the most important things to understand is that popular weight loss medications like Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg), Ozempic (semaglutide for diabetes, often used off-label), and Mounjaro/Zepbound (tirzepatide) are not classified as controlled substances by the DEA.

This distinction is crucial because the federal Ryan Haight Act—which typically requires an in-person medical examination before prescribing controlled substances via telehealth—does not apply to GLP-1 medications. This means that from a federal standpoint, licensed healthcare providers can prescribe these medications after a thorough virtual evaluation without ever seeing you in person.

Current Federal Telehealth Status (December 2025)

While the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency has ended, temporary telehealth flexibilities remain in place for controlled substances through December 31, 2025. These extensions were implemented to give the DEA more time to develop permanent telemedicine regulations.

However, since weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic aren’t controlled substances, they’ve always been eligible for telehealth prescribing under federal law—both during and after the pandemic. The ongoing federal discussions primarily affect medications like Adderall or buprenorphine, not GLP-1 weight loss drugs.

Bottom line: Federal law fully supports telehealth prescribing of weight loss medications, provided the prescriber is licensed in your state and establishes an appropriate patient-provider relationship through a live video consultation.

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State-by-State Telehealth Requirements: What You Need to Know

While federal law permits telehealth prescribing of GLP-1 medications, individual states have their own regulations that can add requirements or restrictions. Here’s what varies by state:

In-Person Examination Requirements

Some states require an initial in-person physical examination before or shortly after starting weight loss medication via telehealth. These requirements typically fall into three categories:

States Requiring Initial In-Person Exam:

• Arkansas
• Delaware
• Georgia
• Mississippi
• New Jersey
• North Dakota
• South Carolina
• Texas
• Utah

In these states, you’ll typically need to complete an in-person visit with a licensed provider before receiving your first prescription, or within a short window after starting treatment. This exam usually includes vital signs, physical assessment, and baseline lab work.

States With No In-Person Requirement:

• California
• Connecticut
• Illinois
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Washington

These states allow healthcare providers to establish a patient-provider relationship entirely through telehealth, including the initial evaluation and all follow-up care.

States With Modified Requirements:Some states like Florida and Virginia don’t mandate an in-person visit per se, but require comprehensive initial evaluations that include physical examination findings, laboratory results, and a documented treatment plan including lifestyle modifications.

State-Specific Treatment Protocols

Beyond visit requirements, several states have enacted specific regulations for prescribing weight loss medications:

Florida requires:

• BMI of 30 or higher (or 27+ with comorbidities)
• Follow-up visits at least every 3 months during active treatment
• Documentation of lifestyle modification attempts

Connecticut mandates:

• Inclusion of behavioral counseling in the treatment plan
• Diet and exercise recommendations documented in medical records

Virginia requires:

• Initial comprehensive evaluation including physical exam and lab work
• Personalized diet and exercise plan
• Follow-up visit within 30 days of starting medication
• Ongoing monitoring and documentation

New Jersey has particularly strict requirements:

• Extensive initial evaluation including medical history, physical exam, lab tests, and psychological screening
• Informed consent specifically addressing weight-loss medication risks
• Documentation of contraindications and alternative treatments considered

Nurse Practitioner and Physician Assistant Authority

Your telehealth provider might be a medical doctor (MD), doctor of osteopathy (DO), nurse practitioner (NP), or physician assistant (PA). All can legally prescribe weight loss medications, but NP and PA authority varies significantly by state:

Full Independent Practice (NPs can prescribe without physician oversight):

• California (after 3+ years experience)
• Connecticut (after 3 years collaboration)
• Delaware (after 2 years collaboration)
• New York (after 3,600 hours experience)
• Utah
• Virginia (after 2 years)
• Washington

Collaborative Practice Required (NPs/PAs must have physician agreement):

• Arkansas
• Florida (limited autonomy in primary care)
• Georgia (new 2024 law allows Schedule II prescribing with delegation)
• Illinois
• Mississippi
• New Jersey
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Texas (strict physician supervision required)

What this means for you: If you’re seeing an NP or PA through telehealth, rest assured they’re operating within their state’s legal scope of practice. Reputable telehealth platforms like Klarity Health only credential providers who meet all state requirements, so you can feel confident in your care regardless of your provider’s credentials.

How Telehealth Weight Loss Treatment Actually Works

Understanding the process can help set appropriate expectations and ensure you’re working with a legitimate provider.

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

A proper telehealth evaluation for weight loss medication should include:

Medical History Review:

• Current and past medical conditions
• All current medications and supplements
• Allergies and adverse reactions
• Family medical history (especially thyroid cancer or MEN2 syndrome)
• Previous weight loss attempts and results

Physical Assessment:

• Current height and weight (self-reported, with possible verification)
• BMI calculation
• Blood pressure and other vital signs (if available via home monitoring)
• Review of any recent lab work

Contraindication Screening:Your provider should specifically ask about:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
• Current pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
• History of pancreatitis
• Gallbladder disease
• Severe gastrointestinal disorders
• History of suicidal thoughts or severe depression

Lifestyle and Goals Discussion:

• Current diet and eating patterns
• Physical activity level
• Weight loss goals and timeline
• Previous attempts at lifestyle modification
• Support system and commitment to long-term change

Informed Consent:Your provider should clearly explain:

• How the medication works
• Common side effects (nausea, GI upset, constipation)
• Serious potential risks
• Expected results and timeline
• Importance of diet and exercise alongside medication
• Cost considerations and insurance coverage

The Prescription Process

If you qualify medically, your provider will:

1. Send an electronic prescription to your chosen pharmacy (e-prescribing is mandatory in many states)
2. Document the medical necessity and treatment plan in your records
3. Provide clear instructions on medication administration, dose titration, and what to expect
4. Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress and side effects

Initial Prescriptions: Typically start with a 4-week supply at the lowest dose to assess tolerance. This gradual approach helps minimize side effects while the body adjusts.

Ongoing Treatment: Once you’ve established tolerance, prescriptions may be written for 1-3 months at a time, depending on state regulations, insurance requirements, and your provider’s protocol.

Required Follow-Up and Monitoring

Legitimate telehealth weight loss programs include regular follow-up care:

First Month: Many providers schedule a check-in 2-4 weeks after starting medication to assess:

• Tolerance and side effects
• Early weight loss response
• Adherence to lifestyle modifications
• Any concerns or questions

Ongoing Monitoring: Typically every 2-3 months to review:

• Weight loss progress
• Vital signs and metabolic markers
• Medication effectiveness
• Need for dose adjustments
• Lab work as appropriate (metabolic panel, A1C if diabetic)

Some states mandate specific follow-up intervals—for example, Florida requires at least quarterly visits during active treatment, and Virginia requires a 30-day follow-up after initiation.

Red flag: If a telehealth service doesn’t schedule any follow-up appointments or monitor your progress, that’s a warning sign of inadequate care.

Who Qualifies for Telehealth Weight Loss Medication?

Not everyone who wants to lose weight is an appropriate candidate for GLP-1 medications. These are powerful prescription drugs intended for people with clinical obesity or significant health risks related to excess weight.

Standard Medical Criteria

Most telehealth providers follow FDA-approved indications:

Primary Criteria:

• BMI ≥ 30 (clinical obesity), OR
• BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as:
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol or triglycerides
• Cardiovascular disease
• Sleep apnea
• Fatty liver disease

Additional Considerations:

• Age 18 or older (pediatric use requires specialized evaluation)
• Previous attempts at weight loss through diet and exercise
• Commitment to long-term lifestyle changes
• Realistic expectations about results
• Ability to afford medication (insurance coverage varies widely)

Who Should NOT Take GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications

Absolute Contraindications:

• Personal history of medullary thyroid carcinoma
• Family history of MEN2 syndrome
• Current pregnancy or planning pregnancy within 2 months
• Breastfeeding
• Known severe allergic reaction to semaglutide or tirzepatide

Relative Contraindications (require careful evaluation):

• History of pancreatitis
• Active gallbladder disease
• Severe gastroparesis or gastrointestinal motility disorders
• History of diabetic retinopathy (may worsen with rapid weight loss)
• Severe kidney disease
• Active eating disorder
• Recent or planned bariatric surgery

A thorough telehealth evaluation should identify these contraindications through medical history screening.

The Truth About Compounded Semaglutide and Telehealth

During 2023-2024, many telehealth companies offered ‘compounded’ versions of semaglutide—essentially custom-made copies produced by compounding pharmacies rather than the FDA-approved brand-name medications.

FDA Ban on Compounded Weight Loss Medications (2025)

Important update: In May 2025, the FDA declared the shortage of Wegovy and Ozempic resolved and effectively banned routine compounding of semaglutide for weight loss. This decision came after the agency determined that adequate supplies of FDA-approved versions were available.

What this means:

• Legitimate telehealth providers can no longer prescribe compounded semaglutide for weight loss
• You should only receive FDA-approved brand-name medications (Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro/Zepbound)
• Compounding is only permitted in very limited circumstances (like documented patient allergy to an inactive ingredient)
• Several telehealth companies that relied heavily on compounded versions had to discontinue their weight loss programs or significantly change their offerings

Why this matters for safety: FDA-approved medications undergo rigorous quality control, purity testing, and safety monitoring. Compounded versions lacked this oversight, raising concerns about consistency, sterility, and actual drug content.

Current Landscape: FDA-Approved Medications Only

As of late 2025, reputable telehealth providers prescribe only FDA-approved GLP-1 medications:

• Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4mg) – FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management
• Ozempic (semaglutide 0.5-2mg) – FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, commonly used off-label for weight loss
• Zepbound (tirzepatide 15mg) – FDA-approved for chronic weight management (launched late 2023)
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide 5-15mg) – FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, used off-label for weight loss

All must be dispensed through licensed pharmacies, not directly from telehealth companies or compounding facilities.

Choosing a Safe, Legitimate Telehealth Provider

The explosion in demand for weight loss medications has unfortunately attracted some less-than-reputable operators. Here’s how to identify quality telehealth care:

Green Flags: Signs of a Legitimate Service

Thorough Medical Evaluation:

• Detailed health questionnaire before any consultation
• Live video visit with a licensed healthcare provider (not just a chat or questionnaire)
• Discussion of your medical history, medications, and contraindications
• Realistic expectations set about results and timeline

Proper Licensing and Credentials:

• Clear information about provider credentials (MD, DO, NP, PA)
• Provider licensed in your state of residence
• Transparent about which states they serve
• Accredited by telehealth oversight organizations

Appropriate Follow-Up Care:

• Scheduled check-ins to monitor progress
• Accessible provider communication for questions or concerns
• Adjustment of treatment plan based on response
• Lab work ordered when clinically indicated

Transparent Pricing:

• Clear upfront costs for consultations and medications
• Explanation of insurance coverage options
• No hidden fees or auto-renewals without consent
• Multiple payment options (insurance and self-pay)

Patient Safety Focus:

• Informed consent process explaining risks and benefits
• Screening for contraindications
• Instructions for managing side effects
• Clear protocol for urgent concerns
• FDA-approved medications only (no compounded versions)

Red Flags: Warning Signs to Avoid

Be cautious of telehealth services that:

❌ Guarantee prescriptions without an evaluation – No legitimate provider can promise medication before assessing your individual situation

❌ Skip the video consultation – Services that prescribe based only on a questionnaire don’t meet standard of care

❌ Offer compounded or ‘generic’ semaglutide – As of 2025, this violates FDA rules

❌ Claim ‘overseas pharmacy’ or ‘Canadian medications’ – These are likely counterfeit or unregulated

❌ Don’t verify provider credentials – You should be able to confirm your provider’s license

❌ Lack follow-up protocols – Prescribing without monitoring is unsafe

❌ Make extreme weight loss promises – Realistic expectations are ~1-2 pounds per week with GLP-1 therapy

❌ Pressure aggressive upselling – Pushing expensive ‘premium’ programs or unnecessary add-ons

❌ Have no physical address or clinical affiliation – Legitimate practices are transparent about their location and oversight

❌ Require you to waive legal rights – Binding arbitration clauses or liability waivers may indicate questionable practices

How Klarity Health Approaches Telehealth Weight Loss Care

At Klarity Health, we’ve designed our weight loss program with both accessibility and safety as top priorities. Here’s what sets us apart:

Licensed Providers in Your State

Every Klarity provider is fully licensed in the state where you’re located. Whether you’re in California, Texas, Florida, or any of the states we serve, you’ll connect with a healthcare professional who understands and follows your state’s specific regulations for telehealth prescribing.

Comprehensive Initial Evaluation

Your first visit includes:

• A live video consultation with an MD, DO, NP, or PA
• Thorough review of your medical history and weight loss goals
• Discussion of contraindications and potential risks
• BMI calculation and assessment of eligibility
• Personalized treatment plan including lifestyle recommendations

We don’t take shortcuts—if you’re not an appropriate candidate for medication, we’ll be honest about that and suggest alternatives.

FDA-Approved Medications Only

Following the 2025 FDA guidance, Klarity prescribes only FDA-approved brand-name GLP-1 medications. Your prescription will be sent electronically to a licensed pharmacy of your choice, ensuring you receive genuine, quality-controlled medication.

Transparent, Affordable Pricing

We accept both insurance and self-pay, with clear upfront pricing:

• Initial consultation fees are disclosed before booking
• Medication costs depend on insurance coverage and pharmacy choice
• No hidden fees or surprise charges
• Flexible payment options for different budgets

Our goal is to make evidence-based weight loss treatment accessible to more people, without the traditional barriers of long wait times or unclear costs.

Ongoing Support and Monitoring

Weight loss is a journey, not a one-time prescription. Klarity provides:

• Scheduled follow-up appointments to track progress
• Provider communication for questions between visits
• Dose adjustments based on your response and tolerance
• Lifestyle counseling to maximize results
• Long-term support for weight maintenance

Provider Availability When You Need It

One of the biggest advantages of telehealth is convenience. With Klarity, you can:

• Book appointments that fit your schedule (including evenings and weekends)
• Connect with providers across multiple states
• Avoid long wait times typical of traditional weight loss clinics
• Manage your care from home, without taking time off work

What to Expect: The Telehealth Weight Loss Journey

Understanding the typical timeline and experience can help you prepare for success.

Weeks 1-4: Getting Started

Your First Consultation:Most people spend 20-30 minutes in their initial video visit. Your provider will review your health history, calculate your BMI, discuss your weight loss goals, and determine if GLP-1 medication is appropriate.

Starting Medication:If approved, you’ll begin at the lowest dose—typically semaglutide 0.25mg weekly or tirzepatide 2.5mg weekly. This gradual start helps your body adjust and minimizes side effects.

What You Might Experience:

• Mild nausea (usually improves after a few doses)
• Reduced appetite
• Some people notice early weight loss, others take longer
• Learning to self-inject (easier than it sounds—most people get comfortable quickly)

First Follow-Up:Around week 2-4, your provider will check in to see how you’re tolerating the medication and address any concerns.

Months 2-6: Building Momentum

Dose Titration:Most people gradually increase their dose every 4 weeks until reaching an effective therapeutic dose. This slow escalation is important for tolerability.

Weight Loss Timeline:

• Months 1-2: Often 5-10 pounds (combination of water weight and early fat loss)
• Months 3-6: Steadier loss of 1-2 pounds per week
• Individual variation is normal—some people lose faster, others slower

Lifestyle Integration:As appetite naturally decreases, you’ll work on:

• Choosing nutrient-dense foods in smaller portions
• Building sustainable eating habits
• Incorporating regular physical activity
• Managing emotional or stress eating triggers

Regular Check-Ins:Most providers schedule follow-ups every 2-3 months during this phase to monitor progress and adjust your plan.

Months 6-12: Reaching Goals

Sustained Weight Loss:By 6-12 months, many people reach their target weight or plateau. Your provider will help you decide whether to:

• Continue medication for weight maintenance
• Taper to a lower maintenance dose
• Transition to lifestyle management alone

Maintenance Phase:Research shows that continuing GLP-1 medication helps maintain weight loss long-term. Many people stay on a maintenance dose indefinitely, similar to managing other chronic conditions.

Long-Term Monitoring:Even in maintenance, regular check-ins ensure the medication remains safe and effective. Lab work may be ordered periodically to monitor metabolic health.

Cost Considerations: Insurance vs. Self-Pay

One of the most common questions about telehealth weight loss treatment is: ‘How much will this cost?’

Insurance Coverage for GLP-1 Medications

Insurance coverage for weight loss medications varies significantly:

Medicare:

• Currently does NOT cover weight loss medications (including GLP-1s)
• Covers GLP-1s only when prescribed for diabetes (Ozempic, Mounjaro)
• Legislative efforts are ongoing to change this coverage gap

Commercial Insurance:

• Coverage varies widely by plan
• Some plans cover Wegovy or Zepbound with prior authorization
• Many require documentation of BMI, comorbidities, and previous weight loss attempts
• Copays can range from $25-$500+ monthly depending on plan and pharmacy

Medicaid:

• Coverage varies by state
• Some state Medicaid programs cover weight loss medications, others don’t
• Check with your specific state program

Prior Authorization:Most insurance companies require prior authorization, which means your provider must submit documentation proving medical necessity. This process typically takes 3-5 business days.

Self-Pay Costs

If you’re paying out-of-pocket:

Brand-Name Medications:

• Wegovy: $1,200-$1,400/month without insurance
• Ozempic: $900-$1,000/month
• Mounjaro/Zepbound: $1,000-$1,200/month

Savings Programs:

• Manufacturer savings cards can reduce costs significantly (often $25-$500/month for eligible patients)
• Eligibility typically requires commercial insurance (not Medicare/Medicaid)
• Some restrictions apply

Telehealth Consultation Fees:

• Initial visit: Typically $50-$150
• Follow-up visits: $30-$75
• Some services bundle consultation and medication costs

At Klarity Health, we work with both insured and self-pay patients, helping you navigate coverage options and find the most affordable pathway to care.

Common Questions About Telehealth Weight Loss Treatment

Is telehealth weight loss treatment as effective as in-person care?

Research increasingly shows that telehealth can be just as effective as traditional in-person care for weight management, especially with GLP-1 medications. The medication itself works the same regardless of how it’s prescribed. The key is receiving thorough evaluations, proper monitoring, and ongoing support—all of which quality telehealth services provide.

Will I need to do lab work?

Many providers require baseline lab work (metabolic panel, A1C, lipid panel, thyroid function) before starting medication, especially if you haven’t had recent labs. Depending on state requirements and your medical history, you may need to visit a local lab or your primary care provider for blood draws. Follow-up labs are typically recommended every 6-12 months.

Can I use my local pharmacy?

Absolutely. Your telehealth provider will send your prescription electronically to the pharmacy of your choice—whether that’s a local retail pharmacy (CVS, Walgreens, etc.) or a mail-order pharmacy. You can even transfer prescriptions between pharmacies if needed.

What if I experience side effects?

Most side effects are mild and temporary, but your telehealth provider should have a clear protocol for managing concerns. Reputable services like Klarity offer provider messaging between visits so you can report issues promptly. Common side effects like nausea often improve with dose adjustment or simple strategies like eating smaller meals.

Can I travel while on telehealth weight loss treatment?

Yes. Your medication is portable (most GLP-1s come in pre-filled injection pens that don’t require refrigeration after first use). If you’ll be in a different state for an extended period, inform your provider—some telehealth services can accommodate this if they have providers licensed in that state.

What happens if I want to stop treatment?

You can discontinue GLP-1 medications at any time, though it’s best to discuss with your provider first. Some people choose to stop once they reach their goal weight, while others continue for maintenance. There’s no dangerous withdrawal, but appetite typically returns to baseline after stopping, which is why many people regain weight without ongoing treatment or sustained lifestyle changes.

How do I switch from in-person to telehealth care (or vice versa)?

If you’re currently seeing a provider in person and want to transition to telehealth, your records can typically be transferred. Similarly, if you start with telehealth and decide you prefer in-person follow-up, you can find a local provider to continue your care. The key is ensuring continuity—don’t stop medication abruptly without a transition plan.

The Future of Telehealth Weight Loss Treatment

As we move into 2026 and beyond, several trends are shaping the future of virtual weight management:

Regulatory Outlook

Federal Level:The DEA’s temporary telehealth flexibilities for controlled substances are set to expire December 31, 2025, but strong signals point to another extension or new permanent rules. While this doesn’t directly affect GLP-1 prescribing (since they’re not controlled), it reflects the broader federal commitment to expanding telehealth access.

Congress is considering legislation like the TREATS Act, which would permanently allow certain telehealth prescribing without in-person requirements. If passed, this would signal strong federal support for telemedicine as a standard of care.

State Level:The trajectory is clearly toward greater access:

• More states are granting nurse practitioners full practice authority
• Interstate licensure compacts are making it easier for providers to practice across state lines
• States are updating telehealth parity laws to ensure virtual care is reimbursed like in-person visits

However, some states may add specific safeguards for weight loss prescribing—expect continued evolution of state-specific requirements.

New Medications on the Horizon

The GLP-1 category is exploding with innovation:

• Oral versions of semaglutide are in development (no more injections)
• Next-generation medications with even greater efficacy
• Combination therapies targeting multiple metabolic pathways
• More options for people who don’t tolerate current medications

Telehealth will likely play a crucial role in rapidly expanding access to these new treatments as they become available.

Integration with Digital Health Tools

Expect telehealth weight loss programs to increasingly incorporate:

• Continuous glucose monitors to optimize dosing and lifestyle choices
• Smart scales and wearables for real-time progress tracking
• AI-powered nutrition coaching
• Virtual support groups and peer connections
• Integration with primary care records for holistic health management

The goal is not just prescribing medication remotely, but creating a comprehensive digital ecosystem that supports lasting behavior change.

Taking the First Step: Is Telehealth Weight Loss Right for You?

If you’re struggling with obesity or weight-related health issues, telehealth weight loss treatment offers a convenient, accessible pathway to evidence-based care.

Telehealth may be ideal if you:

• Meet clinical criteria (BMI ≥30 or ≥27 with comorbidities)
• Have tried lifestyle changes alone without success
• Want convenient care without long wait times or travel
• Live in an area with limited access to weight loss specialists
• Prefer the privacy of managing treatment from home
• Are looking for transparent pricing and flexible payment options

You might need in-person care if:

• You have complex medical conditions requiring hands-on evaluation
• Your state requires initial in-person examination
• You strongly prefer face-to-face consultations
• You need extensive lab work or diagnostic testing before starting

For many people, the best approach may be hybrid—starting with telehealth for convenience, with in-person visits as needed for lab work or physical exams.

Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?

Klarity Health makes it easy to begin evidence-based weight loss treatment from the comfort of home. Our licensed providers are available across multiple states, with flexible scheduling that fits your life—including evenings and weekends.

What you can expect:✓ Licensed providers in your state who understand local regulations
✓ Comprehensive medical evaluation via convenient video visit
✓ FDA-approved medications only, prescribed when medically appropriate
✓ Transparent pricing with both insurance and self-pay options
✓ Ongoing support and monitoring throughout your journey

Whether you’ve been considering GLP-1 medications like Wegovy or Mounjaro, or you’re simply exploring your options, Klarity’s team of experienced providers is here to help you find the right path forward.

Take the first step today. Visit Klarity Health to learn more about our weight loss program, check if you qualify, and book your initial consultation. Convenient, affordable, evidence-based care is just a click away.

Research Currency Statement

Verified as of: December 17, 2025
DEA Rules Status: DEA’s COVID-era telehealth flexibilities remain in effect through December 31, 2025. Non-controlled medications (like GLP-1 agonists) are not subject to the Ryan Haight Act’s in-person rule, so they can be prescribed via telehealth under federal law.
States Verified: AR, CA, CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, MS, NJ, NY, ND, PA, SC, TX, UT, VA, WA (as of Dec 2025)
Sources newer than 2024: 15 of 18 sources (most sources are 2024–2025; older sources used only for baseline context)

References and Sources

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

2. Axios News – ‘COVID-era telehealth prescribing extended.’ Axios. November 18, 2024. www.axios.com

3. McDermott Will & Emery – ‘DEA Extends Telemedicine Flexibilities for Controlled Substance Prescribing Through December 31, 2025.’ November 18, 2024. www.mwe.com

4. Goodwin Procter – ‘The Changing Regulatory and Reimbursement Landscape for Weight-Loss Drugs.’ March 27, 2024. www.goodwinlaw.com

5. Reuters – ‘Hims & Hers cuts 4% of workforce amid ban on weight-loss drug copies.’ May 30, 2025. www.reuters.com

Additional state statutes, medical board guidelines, and federal regulations were referenced and cross-checked for accuracy as of December 2025.

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