A reader-funded review of treatments, supplements & cutting-edge wellness · Issue No. 14 · May 2026
Browse the full guide mapGLP-1s, tools, pipeline, sources
Checklist · Clinician conversation

30 questions to ask before starting a GLP-1 or peptide therapy.

A printable-style checklist for indication fit, contraindications, access, safety, monitoring, nutrition, side effects, sourcing, and stopping plans.

Indication and fit

Start with whether the therapy fits the reader’s actual medical context, not whether it is popular online.

  • What indication would this be used for in my case?
  • Is this FDA-approved for that indication?
  • Are there alternatives with stronger evidence or lower risk?
  • What health history would make this a bad fit?
  • How will we know if it is working?

Safety and monitoring

Good questions make side effects and follow-up explicit.

  • What side effects are common during dose escalation?
  • What symptoms should prompt urgent care or a call to the office?
  • What labs, vitals, or follow-up visits are appropriate?
  • How do my current medications or supplements change the risk picture?
  • Does pregnancy planning, gallbladder history, pancreas history, GI disease, or eating-disorder history matter here?

Cost and access

Access problems should be discussed before the first dose, not when the refill fails.

  • Will insurance cover this indication?
  • What prior authorization is required?
  • What is the cash-pay fallback?
  • What happens if supply changes?
  • If compounding is mentioned, what pharmacy and ingredient form are being used?

Nutrition and maintenance

Medication without a support plan can create avoidable problems.

  • How should I protect lean mass?
  • What protein, hydration, and fiber targets are reasonable for me?
  • What happens if I pause or stop?
  • How often should we reassess dose, side effects, and goals?
  • What is the long-term maintenance plan?

Sources and further reading

These links are included to make the evidence trail visible. They are not sponsor links and do not replace product-specific medical advice.