GLP-1 Drugs: The Strongest Path to Lasting Weight Loss & Improvement in Related Health Conditions September 12, 2025 By: Janet Klein, MS, RDN, CDN, CDCES Categories: Bariatric, Blog, Health & Wellness Janet Klein, MS RDN, CDN, CDCES, Bariatric Surgery and Obesity Medicine Program Director It may not be much of a surprise to hear that with the increased use of GLP-1s for weight loss, there has been a noted decline in patients undergoing bariatric surgery
He argues that sponsors should be challenging carriers now on their strategy for upcoming generics and ultra generics - including how they will use tools such as price listing agreements, plan design, tiered formularies, maximum allowable cost and step therapy - and making sure those strategies are explicitly designed so that savings are captured quickly and flow directly back to the plan
Injection Site Reactions Localized reactions at injection sites include redness, swelling, itching, or minor pain
Common Prior Authorization Criteria BMI documentation: Most states require a documented BMI of 30 or greater, or 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, obstructive sleep apnea) Failed lifestyle modification: Typically 3 to 6 months of documented dietary counseling and physical activity recommendations that did not produce adequate weight loss Step therapy: Some states require patients to try and fail less expensive medications (phentermine, orlistat) before approving GLP-1 coverage Provider qualification: Some Medicaid plans require the prescriber to have completed training in obesity medicine