Medically reviewed by Dr. Diala Alatassi, board-certified obesity medicine physician
If you live in Houston, you already know that a “quick” doctor’s appointment can take half a day once you count traffic and parking. That is one reason more people are choosing telehealth for weight loss. Care happens by video, you talk with a clinician about your health, and your prescription goes to the pharmacy you already use.
This guide explains how telehealth weight loss works at TeleSlim Clinic, who it is for, and what to expect.
What is telehealth weight loss?
Telehealth weight loss is medical weight management delivered through a secure video visit. It is not a diet app or a coaching subscription. You meet with a licensed clinician who reviews your medical history, current medications, weight history and goals, and then recommends a treatment plan that may include prescription medication.
At TeleSlim Clinic, visits are by video only. There is no office to drive to.
Who is it for?
Prescription weight loss medications are generally considered for adults who have:
- A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, or
- A BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or sleep apnea
Telehealth is especially convenient if you live across the Houston area, from Sugar Land and Katy to The Woodlands and League City, and want to avoid long drives or time off work.
It is not right for everyone. Some conditions and medications make certain treatments unsafe, and some people need in-person care. A good clinic will tell you honestly when telehealth is not the right fit.
How a visit works
- Start with a free consult. You can book a free consult to ask questions and see whether the program fits you.
- Share your history. You complete a health questionnaire covering medical conditions, medications, allergies and previous weight loss attempts.
- Video visit. You talk with a clinician about your history and goals, and they explain the options that may be safe for you.
- Your prescription. If medication is appropriate, it is sent to the pharmacy you choose, such as one near your home or workplace.
- Follow-up visits. Your clinician checks your progress, adjusts doses and manages side effects.
What medications might be discussed?
TeleSlim Clinic prescribes FDA-approved medications. Depending on your health, options may include:
- Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro), the GLP-1-based medicines
- Liraglutide (Saxenda)
- Phentermine and phentermine-topiramate (Qsymia)
- Naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave)
- Orlistat and metformin in selected cases
See our full list on the weight loss medications page and read more about GLP-1 medications. We do not use compounded medications.
What does it cost?
The $99 fee covers your consultation and follow-up visits. It is a cash-pay fee, so insurance is not billed for it. Medication cash prices generally range from about $150 to $450 depending on the medication, whether it is an injection or a pill, and the dose. If your insurance plan covers weight loss medication, it may help lower your medication cost. Coverage varies, so check with your plan.
Is telehealth weight loss safe?
It can be, when the clinic follows the same medical standards as an in-person office: a full history, informed consent, appropriate lab or vitals requests when needed, and careful follow-up. Safe telehealth care includes:
- A licensed clinician who reviews your history before prescribing
- Clear discussion of side effects and warning signs
- A way to reach the team if you have questions
- No promises of guaranteed results
Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have important warnings, including a risk related to thyroid tumors seen in animal studies. They are not for people with certain personal or family histories. Your clinician will screen for these.
What results should you expect?
Results vary. In clinical trials, people taking semaglutide 2.4 mg lost about 15 percent of body weight on average over 68 weeks, and people taking the highest dose of tirzepatide lost about 20 percent on average over 72 weeks, when combined with diet and activity changes. Individual results range widely. Medication works best alongside nutrition, protein intake, strength training and sleep.
Tips for Houston residents
- Plan around the heat. Summer humidity makes outdoor exercise hard. Walk early, use indoor tracks or malls, or try a gym close to work.
- Choose a pharmacy carefully. Some pharmacies stock certain doses better than others. Ask your clinician which pharmacy is best for your prescription.
- Eat protein first. Many local restaurants offer grilled proteins and vegetables. Prioritize those.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to come in person? No. TeleSlim Clinic visits are by video.
Can I use my insurance? The visit fee is cash-pay. Insurance may help with the cost of the medication itself, depending on your plan.
Will I be prescribed medication? Only if it is appropriate and safe for you. Some patients start with lifestyle and nutrition support.
How do I start? Take a look at our personalized weight loss planning page, read the FAQs, or take the quick quiz.
Start with a free consult
Ready to see whether telehealth weight loss fits your life? Schedule your free consult. You can also read about Dr. Alatassi.
This article is for general education and does not replace medical advice. Medications carry risks and are not right for everyone.
