A patient reviewing a GLP-1 injection pen with a clinician

Medical weight management, tailored to you

GLP-1 Medical Weight Management

Weight is influenced by appetite, metabolism, health conditions, medication and lifestyle. GLP-1 therapy may be one part of a physician-guided plan after evaluation.

2013 Providing personalized care
A4M Board-certified physician
20+ years Doctor-led experience

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Metabolic evaluation
Medication when suitable
Lifestyle support
Progress monitoring

What to know before treatment

Medication suitability depends on your medical history and should be reviewed alongside nutrition and activity.

Medication choice: Available options differ; risks and indications are reviewed individually.
Side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation or abdominal discomfort can occur.
Dose and tolerance: Dosing is generally introduced gradually and adjusted to response.
Long-term plan: Weight regain after stopping is possible; ongoing strategies should be discussed.

What is GLP-1 Medical Weight Management?

GLP-1 medications act on pathways involved in appetite, satiety and glucose metabolism. For some adults they may support weight loss when combined with nutrition, physical activity and other lifestyle changes. They are a treatment option within medical weight management, not a replacement for it.

Different medications have different indications and risks. Dr. Jeff Ugalde reviews your health history, prior efforts, medications and goals to determine whether a prescription is appropriate. Dosing is adjusted according to response and tolerability rather than automatically reaching the highest dose.

Why choose Age Metrics Medical?

Medical weight management considers metabolic health, limitations and the factors behind weight change. Objective assessments and ongoing monitoring can guide a plan that includes medication only when medically suitable.

Who may benefit from an evaluation?

An evaluation determines whether medication is suitable, not this list alone.

Difficulty losing weight despite lifestyle efforts
Weight regain
Overweight or obesity with health concerns
Appetite regulation difficulties
Metabolic conditions affected by excess weight
Need for additional weight-management support

What to expect

Consultation

Review health history, prior weight-loss efforts, medication, lifestyle and goals.
Metabolic assessment

Laboratory testing may clarify health factors and treatment suitability.
Personalized plan

Discuss medication when appropriate alongside nutrition, activity and behavioral strategies.
Follow-up

Monitor progress, side effects and tolerability; adjust the plan as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do GLP-1 medications replace diet and exercise?

No. They work within a broader plan that may include nutrition, movement and other lifestyle changes.

Will I need laboratory testing?

Testing may be recommended based on your history and health status.

How quickly will I lose weight?

Response varies with medication, dose, health, lifestyle and individual factors; no result can be guaranteed.

What side effects can occur?

Gastrointestinal effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal discomfort. Your physician reviews potential risks before treatment.

What happens when I reach my goal?

Weight management often needs continued attention. Your physician can discuss whether to continue, adjust or stop medication.

Can weight return after stopping?

Yes, some people regain weight. Follow-up can help you plan ongoing nutrition, activity and other support.

International patients

Why patients choose Costa Rica for their care

International patients may find physician-guided weight management in Costa Rica at a lower cost than comparable care at home, depending on the plan. Our English-speaking team helps patients understand recommendations and follow-up.

Explore Why Costa Rica