Source: https://www.tomweightloss.com/faqs/ # Medical weight loss questions, answered. Here are answers to the questions we hear most. [Start your consultation](https://portal.mytomclinic.com/start) **What is TOM Weight Loss?** TOM Weight Loss is an online medical practice for weight loss. Dr. Tran Le is your doctor. Treatment may include weekly shots or daily pills, with regular check-ins. **Is TOM Weight Loss an online pharmacy?** No. We are a physician-led medical practice, not a pharmacy. Every treatment plan is created and managed by a board-certified physician, with medications prescribed as part of ongoing medical care. **Do I need a consultation before starting treatment?** Yes. Every patient begins with a consultation to review medical history, current health, and weight loss goals, so your plan is safe and effective for you. **What weight loss medications do you offer?** GLP-1 medications including semaglutide and tirzepatide (compounded, and brand-name options available à la carte), plus oral options like an oral GLP-1, phentermine, Contrave, and metformin. Your physician recommends the option that fits your health and goals. **What's the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?** Semaglutide works on one hormone pathway (GLP-1). Tirzepatide works on two (GLP-1 and GIP). They can affect people differently, and your doctor helps you decide which one fits your health and goals. **Are compounded medications safe?** Compounded medications are prepared by state-licensed pharmacies and may be used when brand-name medications are unavailable, on shortage, or when a customized titration schedule is medically necessary. They are not FDA-approved as finished drugs and carry additional risks. Your physician will determine if this is appropriate for you. **Do you only offer compounded medications, or brand-name too?** Both. Compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide is included in our all-inclusive memberships ($199 to $249/month). If you'd prefer a brand-name GLP-1 (such as Zepbound, Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Ozempic), we prescribe those too through our à la carte plan ($100/month), where you pay for the brand medication separately through the pharmacy. Your physician helps you decide what fits your goals and budget. **How much weight will I lose?** There's no guaranteed number. Results vary from person to person and depend on your body, your plan, and your goals. What we can promise is a board-certified doctor who builds your plan around you, adjusts it over time, and supports you the whole way. Your doctor will talk through realistic expectations during your consultation. **Do you show before-and-after photos?** No. TOM is about your health, not your appearance. We measure success by steadier blood sugar and blood pressure, more energy, easier movement, and a calmer relationship with food. Weight is one number among many. Dramatic photos can set the wrong expectation. Your doctor tracks the health markers that matter and celebrates the wins that last. **Do I have to take medication forever?** Obesity is a chronic condition and many patients benefit from long-term treatment. Your plan is always reassessed and adjusted based on your progress and goals. Dr. Le can also help you build a diet and exercise plan to maintain results. **Does Dr. Le help with side effects?** Yes. Dr. Le helps you manage side effects, and you can message her in the portal any time. She can also prescribe medications for side effects at no additional cost. See [your care, start to finish](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **What happens when I reach my goal weight?** Dr. Le stays your doctor. Obesity is a chronic condition, and many patients benefit from long-term treatment, so your plan is reassessed based on your progress and goals. Maintenance may use a set low dose, a higher dose, or adjusted doses. See [GLP-1 care with Dr. Le](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **Will I be on my own if I want to stop or taper my medication?** No. If you and Dr. Le decide to taper, she guides you through it. Tapering is individualized for each patient, and follow-up afterward is standard. See [GLP-1 care with Dr. Le](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **Can I be a patient if my health is complex?** Complex health histories are welcome. A board-certified obesity medicine physician manages your treatment from day 1, which improves care for complex patients. Whether treatment is right for you is decided case by case with Dr. Le, and not all patients qualify. See [GLP-1 eligibility](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-eligibility/) and [GLP-1 care with Dr. Le](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **I already take a GLP-1. Can I switch to Dr. Le?** Often, yes. The process is very similar. After your intake, Dr. Le recommends that you continue at your current dose, lower your dose, or raise your dose. See [GLP-1 care with Dr. Le](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **Are dose changes included in my membership?** Yes. Dose changes are included in your all-inclusive membership. See [GLP-1 care with Dr. Le](https://www.tomweightloss.com/glp-1-care-with-dr-le/). **What are the side effects of GLP-1 medications?** Common side effects include nausea, heartburn, constipation, reduced appetite, and digestive changes. These typically improve as your body adjusts to the medication. **Who qualifies for weight loss medication?** Most patients have a BMI of 30 or more. Some have a BMI of 27 or more with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure. Dr. Le decides after she reviews your health history. **Do I need to live in Texas or Utah to be a patient?** Yes. TOM Weight Loss currently serves patients in Texas and Utah only, depending on state telehealth and prescribing regulations. **Does insurance cover weight loss medications?** You don't need insurance to join. You pay for your plan yourself. Your insurance may help pay for a brand-name medication. Dr. Le can talk through that with you. ## Let's talk it through The best way to get answers for your situation is a quick consultation with a board-certified doctor. [Start your consultation](https://portal.mytomclinic.com/start) Prescription required. Not all patients qualify. A physician evaluation is required before treatment.