GLP-1 weight loss shots and pills in Charlotte
GLP-1 medicines are prescription weight loss shots and pills, such as Zepbound and Wegovy, that lower your appetite and help you feel full sooner, so you eat less without feeling starved. At OneSpotMD, a provider sees you in person, helps you choose the medicine that fits your health and your insurance, and follows up as your dose goes up.
- ✓ FDA-approved weekly shots and daily pills
- ✓ Tirzepatide is the medicine we prescribe most
- ✓ In-person visits at Steele Creek and Plaza Midwood
- ✓ Insurance billed for visits; help with prior approval
- ✓ Self-pay GLP-1 program if you don’t have coverage
- ✓ Open 7 days
Your provider looks at your health, your other medicines and your insurance, and helps you choose. Insured patients are billed like any other visit. No insurance? Ask about our self-pay GLP-1 program.
What happens next: 1. Call either clinic. 2. Our team helps arrange your visit. 3. See a provider in person at Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood.
Cost: no insurance? Visits and labs are $99 a month. If individually prescribed and permitted, self-pay compounded tirzepatide is $199 or $299 a month, depending on your dose. With insurance, visits and labs are billed to your plan; your cost depends on your coverage. See what you’d pay
Never tried a GLP-1? Call a clinic to book a visit, and ask whether we have a sample you can try at your first appointment, before you sign up for the full program. Call to ask about a sample
- A provider you see in person, not just an online form
- Insurance billed for your visits, with help on prior approval
- No insurance? Visits and labs for $99 a month
- Open 7 days, weekdays until 8pm
- Same-day help if side effects hit, because we’re also an urgent care
- Labs, blood pressure and diabetes care in the same clinic
On this page
What they areYour optionsShots or pillsResultsOther benefitsWho they are forSafetyCompoundedGetting startedCost and insuranceOur clinics
What are GLP-1 medicines?
GLP-1 is a hormone your gut makes after you eat. GLP-1 medicines copy it. They slow how fast your stomach empties, help you feel full sooner, and quiet the hunger signals in your brain. Most people eat less, and lose weight, as a result. Tirzepatide also acts on a second hormone, GIP.
They are long-term medicines for obesity, a chronic health condition, and they work best with eating changes and more activity.
Source: NIDDK (NIH): Prescription medications to treat overweight and obesity
GLP-1 weight loss options
| Medicine | Form | Approved for |
|---|---|---|
| Zepbound (tirzepatide) | Weekly shot | Weight loss; sleep apnea with obesity |
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | Weekly shot or daily pill | Weight loss; lowering heart attack and stroke risk |
| Foundayo (orforglipron) | Daily pill, no food or water rules | Weight loss |
| Mounjaro (tirzepatide) | Weekly shot | Type 2 diabetes |
| Ozempic (semaglutide) | Weekly shot or daily tablet | Type 2 diabetes |
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026); Wegovy prescribing information, FDA (rev. 5/2026); Eli Lilly: FDA approves Foundayo (orforglipron) (Apr 2026)
Most of our patients start on tirzepatide. Side-by-side details: GLP-1s compared.
Weight loss shots vs pills
| Weekly shot | Daily pill | |
|---|---|---|
| How often | Once a week, same day each week | Every day |
| Rules | Any time of day, with or without food | Wegovy pill: empty stomach, wait 30 minutes. Foundayo: no food or water rules. |
| Average weight loss in main studies | About 15% to 21% | About 12% to 17% |
| Can be given at our clinic | Yes | Taken at home |
Source: Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). NEJM 2022; Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). NEJM 2021; Healio: FDA approves Wegovy pill, the first oral GLP-1 to treat obesity; Eli Lilly: FDA approves Foundayo (orforglipron) (Apr 2026)
How much weight can you lose?
In the main studies, adults on the highest doses lost an average of about 15% to 21% of their body weight over 68 to 72 weeks, compared with 2% to 3% on placebo. For someone who weighs 220 pounds, 15% is 33 pounds. Results vary, and everyone in these studies also changed how they ate and moved.
Source: Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). NEJM 2022; Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). NEJM 2021
Most weight loss happens over the first year, and it usually comes back if you stop. See what to expect and keeping weight off and stopping.
NIH guidance says that if you haven’t lost at least 5% of your weight after 12 weeks on your full dose, your provider will likely suggest a change.
Source: NIDDK (NIH): Prescription medications to treat overweight and obesity
What else weight loss can help with
Losing even part of your extra weight can improve more than the number on the scale. Here’s what research and FDA approvals show. Results vary, and your provider tracks what changes for you.
- Blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar: even modest weight loss can help improve all three.
- Type 2 diabetes: Mounjaro and Ozempic are FDA-approved to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. In people with prediabetes, a large NIH study found that losing about 7% of body weight through diet and exercise lowered the chance of getting type 2 diabetes by 58%.
- Sleep apnea: Zepbound is FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.
- Heart health: in adults with heart disease and overweight or obesity, Wegovy lowered the risk of heart attack, stroke and death from heart disease.
- Fatty liver (MASH): Wegovy injection has accelerated FDA approval for adults with noncirrhotic MASH and moderate-to-advanced liver scarring (F2–F3). This is not an approval for every type of fatty liver disease or for Wegovy tablets.
- PCOS: losing weight can ease many PCOS symptoms and can help make periods more regular. GLP-1 medicines are not FDA-approved to treat PCOS, so your provider decides with you whether one fits.
- Knee and joint pain: in one study, each pound lost took about 4 pounds of pressure off the knees. In a 68-week trial of adults with obesity and knee arthritis, people taking semaglutide had less knee pain than people taking a placebo. Some people also notice less back pain as they lose weight, though there’s less research on that.
Source: CDC: Losing weight; Mounjaro prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026); NIDDK (NIH): Diabetes Prevention Program; FDA: FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea (Dec 2024); Lincoff AM, et al. Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in obesity without diabetes (SELECT). NEJM 2023; AACE: FDA approves Wegovy for certain adults with MASH (Aug 2025); NICHD (NIH): Treatments for PCOS; Arthritis Foundation: Weight loss benefits for arthritis; Once-weekly semaglutide in persons with obesity and knee osteoarthritis (STEP 9), NEJM 2024
Each GLP-1 medicine is approved for specific uses. Your provider explains which ones apply to the medicine you take.
Who GLP-1 medicines are for
Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or sleep apnea. They aren’t for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2, or during pregnancy. Check yours on do I qualify.
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026); Wegovy prescribing information, FDA (rev. 5/2026)
Call to start weight loss care
Are GLP-1 medicines safe?
They’re FDA-approved and widely studied. The most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation, mostly early on. Less common but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems and dehydration. In January 2026 the FDA removed the suicidal thoughts warning after finding no increased risk. See side effects.
Source: FDA: Removal of the suicidal behavior and ideation warning for GLP-1 medicines (Jan 2026)
- Severe stomach pain that won’t go away, with or without vomiting. It may spread to your back.
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction: swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a fast heartbeat with dizziness
- Fainting, or chest pain
- Anything that seems life-threatening
- Sudden loss of vision: seek emergency medical care immediately.
What about compounded GLP-1s?
If insurance does not cover a medicine, your provider will review your options. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility. Compounded medicines are not FDA-approved; FDA does not review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. Dosing errors have occurred, so follow your prescriber’s and pharmacist’s instructions carefully.
Source: FDA: Concerns with unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss; FDA: Dosing errors with compounded semaglutide
How to start GLP-1 treatment in Charlotte
- Call either clinic to arrange your weight loss visit.
- See a provider in person at Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood.
- Get labs if needed, and choose your medicine together.
- We send your prescription and help with prior approval.
- Start low, step up slowly, and check in along the way.
Call to start weight loss care
Cost and insurance
What you pay each month
Your visits and your medicine are priced separately, so you only pay for what your insurance doesn’t cover.
| Your situation | Visits and labs | Medicine | Each month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-pay program, individually prescribed compounded dose 2.5–7.5 mg | $99 | $199 | $298 |
| Self-pay program, individually prescribed compounded dose 10–15 mg | $99 | $299 | $398 |
| Insurance covers your medicine | Your plan-dependent cost | Your plan-dependent pharmacy cost | Your plan-dependent cost |
| Insurance does not cover medicine; compounded treatment individually prescribed if appropriate | Your plan-dependent cost | $199 or $299 | Your plan-dependent visit/lab cost plus eligible prescribed medicine |
- $99 a month, no insurance needed: a visit with your provider every month and lab work every 3 months. Self-pay patients can sign up for this program.
- With insurance: we bill your plan for your visits and labs. Your cost depends on your plan, including copay, coinsurance and deductible.
- If your plan covers tirzepatide (Zepbound or Mounjaro): we send your prescription to your pharmacy, and your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan. Many plans need prior approval first, and we help with the paperwork.
- If prescribed for your individual medical need: compounded tirzepatide is $199 a month at 2.5, 5 or 7.5 mg, or $299 a month at 10, 12.5 or 15 mg. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility. Your provider determines your dose and follow-up plan.
Compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review compounded medicines for safety, effectiveness or quality. Your provider talks with you about whether it’s right for you. Prices as of November 2026. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
How insurance coverage for GLP-1 medicine works →
Insurance we take: Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana and TRICARE East, plus Original Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans. We don’t take HMO plans tied to one doctor or hospital system. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See all the insurance we accept.
Our weight loss clinics in Charlotte
Injectable prescriptions sent to a pharmacy are self-injected at home as instructed. Oral medicines are taken as prescribed. Patients prescribed compounded medicine through our program receive weekly injections at the clinic. A routine provider evaluation is not required at every weekly injection; follow-up and dose changes remain directed by your provider.
| Clinic | Address and phone |
|---|---|
| Steele Creek | 2114 Freeman Park Dr, Suite 105, Charlotte, NC 28273. (980) 880-5588 |
| Plaza Midwood | 2017 Central Ave, Suite 103, Charlotte, NC 28205. (704) 731-8656 |
| Hours (both) | Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm |
Weight loss visits and in-clinic injections are available at both clinics. Close to Steele Creek, Ballantyne, Rivergate, Lake Wylie, Fort Mill, Plaza Midwood, NoDa, Uptown, Midtown and Elizabeth.
Call either clinic to discuss weight loss care and arrange your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is a GLP-1 medicine?
A medicine that copies GLP-1, a gut hormone that helps you feel full. GLP-1 medicines such as Zepbound and Wegovy lower appetite and are FDA-approved for weight loss in adults who qualify.
Where can I get GLP-1 weight loss shots in Charlotte?
OneSpotMD providers prescribe GLP-1 medicines after an in-person visit at our Steele Creek and Plaza Midwood clinics. Call either clinic to arrange a visit. Both clinics are open 7 days a week.
Which GLP-1 is best for weight loss?
In a head-to-head study, tirzepatide (Zepbound) led to more average weight loss than semaglutide (Wegovy). The best one for you depends on your health, side effects and insurance. Your provider helps you choose.
Is there a GLP-1 pill for weight loss?
Yes. The Wegovy pill (semaglutide) and Foundayo (orforglipron) are daily pills approved for weight loss. The Wegovy pill is taken on an empty stomach; Foundayo has no food or water rules.
How much weight can you lose on a GLP-1?
In the main studies, adults lost an average of about 15% to 21% of their body weight over 68 to 72 weeks on the highest doses, with diet and activity changes. Results vary.
How fast do GLP-1 medicines work?
Many people feel less hungry in the first weeks. Weight loss is gradual because the dose goes up slowly, and most loss happens over the first year.
Are GLP-1 shots safe?
They’re FDA-approved and widely studied. Common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation. They aren’t for people with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2, or during pregnancy.
Do I have to take a GLP-1 forever?
Many people regain weight after stopping, so these are usually long-term medicines. Your provider can talk with you about lowering the dose or stopping and how to keep weight off.
Does insurance cover GLP-1 medicines for weight loss?
Some plans do, usually with prior approval. Many don’t cover weight loss medicine. We bill your plan for visits and help with the paperwork. Without coverage, ask about our self-pay GLP-1 program.
Are compounded GLP-1s safe?
Compounded GLP-1s are not FDA-approved, and the FDA doesn’t review them for safety, effectiveness or quality. The FDA has reported dosing errors with compounded semaglutide. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
Can I see a provider in person for GLP-1 treatment?
Yes. You see a provider at Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood. Injectable prescriptions sent to a pharmacy are self-injected at home as instructed. Oral medicines are taken as prescribed. Patients prescribed compounded medicine through our program receive weekly injections at the clinic. A routine provider evaluation is not required at every weekly injection; follow-up and dose changes remain directed by your provider. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
Can I try a sample before I sign up for the full program?
Often, yes. We usually have samples in the clinic. Call either clinic to book a visit and ask whether one is available. If your provider decides a GLP-1 medicine is right for you, you may be able to try a sample at your first appointment before you sign up for the full program. Samples depend on what we have in stock.
FDA prescribing information: Ozempic tablets
Sources
Additional safety information: FDA: compounded GLP-1 medicines; FDA: November 2026 vision warning; Wegovy prescribing information.
- NIDDK (NIH): Prescription medications to treat overweight and obesity
- Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
- Wegovy prescribing information, FDA (rev. 5/2026)
- Eli Lilly: FDA approves Foundayo (orforglipron) (Apr 2026)
- Healio: FDA approves Wegovy pill, the first oral GLP-1 to treat obesity
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). NEJM 2022
- Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). NEJM 2021
- FDA: Concerns with unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss
- FDA: Dosing errors with compounded semaglutide
- FDA: Removal of the suicidal behavior and ideation warning for GLP-1 medicines (Jan 2026)
- CDC: Losing weight
- Mounjaro prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
- NIDDK (NIH): Diabetes Prevention Program
- FDA: FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea (Dec 2024)
- Lincoff AM, et al. Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in obesity without diabetes (SELECT). NEJM 2023
- AACE: FDA approves Wegovy for certain adults with MASH (Aug 2025)
- NICHD (NIH): Treatments for PCOS
- Arthritis Foundation: Weight loss benefits for arthritis
- Once-weekly semaglutide in persons with obesity and knee osteoarthritis (STEP 9), NEJM 2024
This page is general information, not medical advice for your situation. Your provider decides with you whether a medicine is right for you. Results vary from person to person.
Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. OneSpotMD is not affiliated with or endorsed by these companies.
More on medical weight loss
Medicines
TirzepatideZepboundMounjaroSemaglutideWegovyOzempicGLP-1s compared
Before you start
Medical weight lossGetting startedInsurance coverage
Once you start
Side effectsDiet, exercise and keeping it off
Updated