FAQs

  • We prescribe compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide—the same active ingredients as brand-name. Our compounded versions are prepared by licensed U.S. compounding pharmacies following the highest standards for purity and potency. Compounding allows us to provide safe, affordable options when brand-name isn't tolerated or is inacessable.

  • Semaglutide and tirzepatide are both injectable medications that help with weight loss by targeting hormones that regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar. While they work in similar ways, there are some key differences:

    Semaglutide

    • Works by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that helps control appetite and blood sugar.

    • Helps patients feel full sooner, eat less, and improve long-term blood sugar control.

    • Clinical studies show average weight loss of 15–17% of body weight over about a year.


    Tirzepatide

    • Targets two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. This dual action may offer an added benefit for weight loss and metabolism.

    • Patients often report stronger appetite suppression compared to semaglutide.

    • Clinical studies show average weight loss of 20–25% of body weight over about a year.


    Which is better for me?
    It depends on your health history, weight loss goals, and tolerance for each medication. Both options are highly effective, but some patients may respond better to one than the other. Dr. Wilson will review your medical history and help you choose the safest and most effective treatment plan for your needs.

  • GLP-1s are a very exciting class of medications that have been shown not only help with weight loss, but also improve long-term health outcomes.

    In clinical trials, average weight loss with semaglutide was 15% of body weight at 12–18 months. Tirzepatide: 22% of body weight on average. Most patients also notice reduced cravings, better portion control, and improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.

    Large clinical trials (such as the SELECT trial with semaglutide) showed a 20% reduction in heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death in people with obesity and prior heart disease.

  • Most patients complete their intake form, have a telehealth call within 1-2 days, and receive medication within 3–5 business days.

    1. Complete a secure online intake form.

    2. Meet with Dr. Wilson by telehealth.

    3. If appropriate, your medication and supplies are shipped directly to your door.

  • GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are started at a low dose and gradually increased through a process called titration.

    This stepwise approach is recommended for four key reasons:

    1. Reduce Side Effects: The most common side effects are mild nausea, fullness, or stomach upset. Starting low allows your body to adjust, so you’re less likely to feel unwell.

    2. Personalize Your Dose: Some patients do very well on lower doses and don’t need to go higher while others may require higher doses to continue losing weight effectively.

    3. Maintain Long-Term Results: Over time, your body adapts to the medication. A gradual increase helps maintain appetite control and steady weight loss.

    4. Safety First: Jumping to a high dose too quickly increases the risk of side effects and may cause patients to stop treatment altogether. A careful, stepwise increase balances safety with effectiveness.

    Bottom line: The goal isn’t to put every patient on the “highest dose.” It’s to find the lowest effective dose that works for you, giving the best results with the fewest side effects.

    Learn more

  • Semaglutide: $250 for your first 6-8 week vial (2.5 mg)
    Tirzepatide: $375 for your first 6-8 week vial (25 mg)

    Higher doses: $300–$490 per vial depending on strength. Vials will contain enough medicine for 5-8 weeks.

    Price includes consult, medication, shipping, and syringes — no hidden fees, contracts, or long term committment.

    Learn more

  • Brand-name: $1,000–$1,400 every 4 weeks (if not covered by insurance)

    Coastal Weight Loss compounded option: $250–$490 per vial, each lasting 5–8 weeks

    Most patients save over 70% compared to brand-name pricing without the hassle of dealing with insurance.

    Learn more

  • No. Coastal Weight Loss is a cash-pay practice. This keeps costs transparent and avoids insurance hassles due to delays or denials. Patients may pay with FSA/HSA iif they choose.

  • All telehealth visits must take place while you are physically located in Virginia. While our pharmacy ships nationwide, you must be in Virginia at the time of your telehealth consultation.

  • You’ll have direct physician support for dose adjustments and follow-up as needed. Our goal is not just weight loss, but lasting success.

  • Compounded medications are prescriptions that a licensed pharmacist prepares by mixing or adjusting ingredients to meet a patient’s specific needs.

    In the case of GLP-1s like semaglutide and tirzepatide, compounding allows us to provide the same active ingredient as the brand-name drugs in a form that’s affordable and available when commercial supply is limited or the patient cannot tolerate the brand name formulation.

    Safety is our first priority:
    -✔ All prescriptions are filled through licensed U.S. compounding pharmacies that follow strict, FDA-regulated quality and safety standards.

    ✔ Compounded medications are used widely in healthcare — from hormone replacement to children’s medications — and are a trusted part of modern medical practice.

    ✔ While compounded drugs are not FDA-approved in the same way as brand names, they use the same active pharmaceutical ingredient and are prescribed legally when a commercially available alternative is not accessible or suitable.

    📌 Bottom line: Compounded GLP-1s provide a safe, effective, and more affordable option for patients who cannot access or tolerate brand-name medications.