GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are medications that mimic a natural hormone in your body to regulate blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion. These medications help reduce hunger, promote a feeling of fullness, and assist in weight loss, making them a powerful tool for improving metabolic health and achieving wellness goals.

At Paragon Health, we do not use insurance for our GLP-1 agonist program. All medications are provided through FDA-approved pharmacies based in the United States, ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality. By not relying on insurance, we maintain a streamlined, transparent process for your care.

Every patient’s case is reviewed by our board-certified physicians to ensure your treatment plan is safe, effective, and tailored to your unique health needs. We prioritize your well-being and take every precaution to ensure your success in the program.

1. Application Process:

   • Patients must upload their current lab results as part of the application process.

   • If you don’t have recent labs, Paragon Health will assist you by providing a lab request form for testing at a convenient LabCorp location.

   • This step is mandatory to start the program.

2. Shipment Details:

   • Once approved, you will receive a shipment containing:

     • GLP-1 medication vials

     • Syringes

     • Alcohol swabs

     • Instructions for safe use

3. Follow-Up:

   • Regular follow-ups are an essential part of the program. Our team will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

Step-by-step guide for self-injection:

1. Prepare your supplies:

   A vial of GLP-1 medication

   A syringe

   An alcohol swab

   A sharps disposal container

   1. Wash your hands: Use soap and water or hand sanitizer before handling your supplies.

2. Prepare the medication:

   • Wipe the top of the vial with an alcohol swab.

   • Draw air into the syringe equal to your prescribed dose, then insert the needle into the vial and push the air in.

   • Turn the vial upside down and carefully pull the syringe plunger to draw the correct amount of medication.

3. Choose your injection site:

   • Common sites include the abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch radius around the navel), upper thigh, or back of the arm.

   • Rotate injection sites with each dose to prevent irritation.

4. Inject the medication:

   • Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry.

   • Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle (or 45 degrees for thinner tissue).

   • Slowly push the plunger and hold for 5-10 seconds before withdrawing the needle.

5. Dispose of the needle:

   • Place the used syringe and needle in your sharps container immediately after use.

Lab tests are critical to ensure the program is safe and effective for your unique health needs. Required tests typically include:

• A1C levels

• Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

• Lipid Panel

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)

• Thyroid Function Tests (TSH, T3, T4)

Our team will carefully review your results to create a plan tailored to your goals.

Most side effects are mild and temporary, including:

• Nausea: The most common side effect, especially during the first few weeks. Eating smaller, lighter meals can help.

• Vomiting or diarrhea: Stay hydrated and contact us if symptoms persist.

• Constipation: Increase your water and fiber intake.

• Injection site reactions: Mild redness or swelling may occur but usually subsides quickly.

• Fatigue or dizziness: This can happen as your body adjusts to the medication.

Contact us immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing).

Store your medication vials in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C). Do not freeze them. Keep the vials in their original packaging to protect them from light and ensure they are out of reach of children.

• For daily injections: Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is close to your next scheduled dose. Do not double the dose.

• For weekly injections: If it’s within 48 hours of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your normal schedule.

Dispose of used syringes and needles in a sharps disposal container provided in your shipment or available at most pharmacies. Once the container is full, follow local guidelines for safe disposal. Empty vials can be discarded in regular household trash.

• Follow a balanced diet and stay active.

• Attend scheduled follow-ups with our team to monitor your progress.

• Stay consistent with your dosing schedule.

• Contact us with any concerns or questions to stay on track with your wellness journey.

If you have any questions about your medication, labs, or injection process, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

A compounded medication is a customized version of a drug prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy to meet specific patient needs. In the case of GLP-1 agonists, the compounded version may include additional ingredients or tailored formulations that can enhance effectiveness or reduce costs.

Key points about compounded medications:

1. FDA Oversight: Compounded medications are created by pharmacies that comply with strict FDA guidelines and regulations to ensure safety and quality.

2. Customization: Compounding allows adjustments to dosages, ingredients, or delivery methods that are not available in commercially produced medications.

3. Cost-Effectiveness: Compounded versions of GLP-1 agonists can sometimes be a more affordable alternative without sacrificing efficacy or safety.

4. Availability: In some cases, compounded versions may be offered when the commercial product is on backorder or unavailable.

At Paragon Health, we only source compounded GLP-1 agonists from FDA-approved, U.S.-based pharmacies to ensure you receive high-quality, safe, and effective treatments.

Is the compounded version as effective as the commercial brand? Yes, when prepared by a licensed and reputable compounding pharmacy, the medication is designed to match the safety and efficacy of the commercial version. Our board-certified physicians oversee every case to ensure the medication and dosage are right for your unique needs.