GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss: What You Should Know Before You Ask Your Doctor

June 1, 2026

GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss: What You Should Know Before You Ask Your Doctor

You've probably heard about them by now. Ozempic. Wegovy. Mounjaro. They're on the news, in your social media feed, and maybe even in conversations at your kitchen table. GLP-1 medications have become one of the most talked-about developments in medicine in years — and for good reason. But with all the buzz comes a lot of confusion. So let's cut through the noise and give you the straight story.

What Is a GLP-1 Medication?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 — a hormone your body naturally produces after you eat. It helps regulate blood sugar, slows digestion, and signals to your brain that you're full. GLP-1 receptor agonist medications work by mimicking this hormone, which is why they've shown meaningful results in managing both type 2 diabetes and, more recently, obesity and overweight.

The FDA has approved certain GLP-1 medications for chronic weight management and a growing list of related conditions. These are not diet pills. They are prescription medications with a clinical profile, and they work best as part of a comprehensive, medically supervised plan.

So... Is This Right for Me?

That's the most important question — and it's one you should answer with your doctor, not with a social media post.

At Sisselman Medical Group, we offer GLP-1 treatment consultations for patients who may be candidates based on FDA-approved indications.

Here's what that looks like in practice:

• We sit down with you one-on-one and review your full health history

• We talk about your weight history, any related health conditions, and your goals

• We discuss how GLP-1 medications work, what to expect, and what the risks are

• We build a plan that includes lifestyle modifications — nutrition, activity, and behavioral changes — because medication alone is never the whole answer

• We monitor your progress and adjust as needed

A consultation with one of our providers does not guarantee a prescription. GLP-1 treatment is not right for everyone, and we take that seriously. Our job is to figure out what's right for you — not to simply write a script because you requested one.

Why Your Primary Care Team Should Be Leading This Conversation

Here's something we see too often: patients getting GLP-1 prescriptions from online platforms or med spas with little more than a quick questionnaire and a credit card. No full health history. No follow-up plan. No conversation about what happens if side effects kick in — or what comes next.

That's not the kind of care we provide.

At Sisselman Medical Group, GLP-1 consultations are conducted by our full clinical team — including Dr. Stephen Sisselman, Dr. Jill Sisselman, and our experienced midlevel providers: Sabrina, Erin, Lauren, and Danielle. Every one of them brings the same commitment to personalized, thoughtful care, and every consultation is grounded in your complete medical picture — your other medications, your lab results over time, your history with blood pressure, cholesterol, or blood sugar.

That context matters enormously when making any prescribing decision — but especially for a medication class as powerful and nuanced as GLP-1s. We're also here for the long game. Weight management isn't a six-week sprint. It's an ongoing part of your overall health, and we want to be your partner through it.

Who Might Be a Candidate?

FDA-approved GLP-1 medications are indicated for several conditions — not just weight loss. While your individual consultation will determine eligibility, here is a look at the broader landscape of approved uses:

Obesity or Overweight (BMI criteria).

The foundational indication. Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol may qualify.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

The FDA has approved certain GLP-1 medications as an adjunct treatment for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. If you've been told you need a CPAP — or you've struggled to tolerate one — this is a conversation worth having. Meaningful weight reduction has been shown to significantly reduce sleep apnea severity.

Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD).

Excess weight and metabolic dysfunction are closely tied to fat accumulation in the liver. GLP-1 medications have demonstrated benefit in reducing liver fat and improving metabolic markers in patients with MAFLD, and FDA approvals have expanded to reflect this. If you've been told your liver enzymes are elevated or that you have fatty liver disease, this may be relevant to your care.

Cardiovascular Risk Reduction.

For patients with established cardiovascular disease and either obesity or type 2 diabetes, certain GLP-1 medications have received FDA approval specifically to reduce the risk of serious cardiac events — including heart attack and stroke. If you have a history of heart disease, this indication alone may make GLP-1 therapy worth discussing with your care team.

Across all of these indications, a commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes remains an essential part of the plan. There are also patients for whom GLP-1 medications are not appropriate — including those with certain personal or family histories of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or other conditions. This is exactly why a real, individualized medical consultation matters.

What About the Lifestyle Changes?

We want to be honest with you: GLP-1 medications work best when they're part of a bigger picture. The patients who see the most meaningful, lasting results are the ones who use the reduced appetite these medications provide as a runway to build healthier habits — not as a substitute for them.

That means working with you on what you're eating, how you're moving, how you're managing stress, and how all of it connects to your overall health. We're not here to hand you a prescription and send you on your way. We're here to help you build something sustainable.

Ready to Have the Conversation?

If you've been wondering whether GLP-1 treatment might be right for you, the best next step is simple: come in and talk to us. No pressure, no assumptions, and no judgment. Just an honest conversation between you and your care team about where you are and where you want to be.

Sisselman Medical Group has two convenient locations on Long Island — Massapequa and Commack. Same-day appointments are often available, and we'd love the chance to take care of you like family.

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What to Bring to Your Annual Physical: A Simple Checklist for a More Productive Visit

August 28, 2026

Annual physicals are a key part of preventive healthcare, even if you feel well. Regular checkups help your provider monitor your health, identify concerns early, and discuss any changes. Arriving prepared makes your visit more productive and ensures important topics are addressed. Bring an Updated Medication List List all medications you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Note the dosage and frequency for each. Bring the medications or an updated list, either on paper or your phone. Your provider will review your medications for interactions, assess whether changes are needed, and ensure your medical record is accurate. Write Down Your Health Concerns It is easy to forget questions during your appointment. Before your physical, list any symptoms, concerns, or changes you have noticed. Include changes in sleep, energy, appetite, weight, digestion, mood, menstrual health, or pain. Even minor issues are worth mentioning so your provider can decide whether you need further evaluation. Know Your Family Medical History Family history helps assess your risk for certain conditions. Before your appointment, note major medical issues in your parents, siblings, and children, such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure, or other hereditary conditions. If your family’s medical history has changed, inform your provider. Bring Pertinent Medical Records If you recently visited another healthcare provider, had tests, or received treatment elsewhere, bring any records not already in your chart. This includes lab results, imaging reports, vaccination records, specialist notes, and hospital discharge papers. Complete information helps your provider make informed decisions about your preventive care. Be Ready to Discuss Your Lifestyle Your annual physical covers more than vital signs and lab tests. Your provider may ask about nutrition, activity, sleep, stress, tobacco or alcohol use, and other daily habits. Be honest about your habits and challenges. This helps your provider offer recommendations customized to your needs and goals. Prepare a Few Questions Write down two or three questions you want answered. You might ask about recommended screenings, vaccines, lifestyle changes, recent health changes, or timing for your next follow-up. The Bottom Line A little preparation can make your annual physical more productive. Preparing in advance makes your annual physical more productive and helps you take an active role in your care. Bring an updated medication list, relevant records, family history, health concerns, and questions so your provider has a complete view of your health. Stay up to date on your health and address concerns early. Talk with your medical professional about the screenings, tests, and wellness recommendations that are appropriate for you.

Preventive Screenings Women Shouldn’t Skip in Their 30s, 40s, and 50s

July 29, 2026

Many women prioritize work, family, and daily responsibilities, often putting their own health needs aside. Feeling healthy is a good sign but does not always mean everything inside the body functions properly. Preventive screenings find potential health concerns early, when they are easier to manage and treat. Your 30s: Building a Strong Foundation Your 30s are the ideal time to establish healthy habits and stay consistent with preventive care. Annual physicals let your healthcare provider monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall wellness and discuss nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Routine gynecological visits should continue to be a priority. These appointments cover more than reproductive health—they provide a chance to discuss menstrual changes, family planning, breast health, sexual wellness, and any concerns. Depending on your age and health history, your provider may recommend a Pap smear, HPV testing, or both to screen for cervical cancer. Your 40s: Expanding Preventive Care As women enter their 40s, additional screenings become more important. Many begin routine mammograms based on age, family history, and personal risk factors. Diabetes screening, skin cancer checks, and discussions about colorectal cancer screening should also be part of regular preventive care. Gynecological visits continue to play an essential role during this stage of life. As hormonal changes and perimenopause begin, your provider is able to help manage symptoms, monitor reproductive and pelvic health, perform recommended exams, and ensure cervical cancer screenings remain up to date. Your 50s: Remaining Proactive In your 50s, preventive care focuses on maintaining well-being and lowering age-related risks. Colorectal cancer screening becomes especially important. Bone density testing helps evaluate osteoporosis risk after menopause. Regular mammograms, blood pressure checks, and cholesterol monitoring also remain key parts of a healthy aging plan. A common misconception is that women no longer need to see a gynecologist after menopause. Annual gynecological visits remain an important part of preventive healthcare. These appointments let providers address postmenopausal concerns, monitor pelvic and breast health, discuss urinary or vaginal symptoms, and determine if continued cervical cancer screening is appropriate based on your medical history. Don’t Skip Your Annual Gynecological Visit Regardless of your age, routine gynecological care should remain part of your overall wellness plan. These visits offer important opportunities to detect health concerns early, discuss changing symptoms, and receive personal guidance through every stage of life. Preventive care doesn’t end after childbearing years—it changes with your health needs. The Bottom Line Preventive screenings are one of the best ways to protect your long-term health. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, keeping up with recommended screenings—including annual gynecological visits—can help detect problems early and support lifelong wellness. Talk with your healthcare provider about the screenings that are right for you and make preventive care a priority at every stage of life.

When Is Fatigue More Than Just Being Tired? Understanding the Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

June 30, 2026

Everyone feels tired sometimes. A late night, a stressful week, or a busy schedule can leave you dragging through the day. But there’s a difference between ordinary tiredness and persistent fatigue, and knowing that difference matters more than most people realize. Fatigue isn’t just “feeling sleepy.” It’s a deeper, ongoing lack of energy that can affect your physical strength, mental clarity, and ability to function normally. If you’ve been wondering, “Why am I always exhausted even when I sleep?” it may be time to look a little closer. What Is Normal Tiredness vs. Chronic Fatigue? Normal tiredness usually has a clear cause. You stay up late, skip a meal, push through a long workday, or recover after physical activity. Once you rest, your energy returns. Fatigue is different. It tends to linger, often lasting weeks or longer, and does not fully improve with sleep or rest. You might feel: Constant low energy, even after a full night’s sleep Difficulty concentrating or “brain fog” Muscle weakness or heaviness Reduced motivation or slowed thinking Headaches or irritability When these symptoms persist, fatigue may signal a fundamental health issue rather than simple exhaustion. Common Medical Causes of Persistent Fatigue Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms patients report in primary care — and it can have many causes. Some of the most frequent include: 1. Sleep Disorders Conditions can greatly reduce sleep quality, even if you are in bed for 7–9 hours. People often wake up feeling unrefreshed, unaware that they had disrupted their sleep throughout the night. 2. Thyroid Imbalance An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow metabolism and lead to persistent fatigue, weight changes, and cold intolerance. 3. Anemia or Nutritional Deficiencies Low iron, vitamin B12, or vitamin D levels may all contribute to low energy and weakness. 4. Blood Sugar or Metabolic Conditions Diabetes, prediabetes, and insulin resistance can affect how your body naturally makes and uses energy throughout the day. 5. Chronic Stress or Mental Health Conditions Anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can present physically as exhaustion, even when sleep appears adequate. 6. Medication Side Effects or Medical Conditions Certain prescriptions and chronic illnesses may also contribute to ongoing fatigue. When Fatigue Becomes a Red Flag You should consider speaking with a medical provider if fatigue: Interferes with your daily activities or work Occurs alongside unexplained weight changes, fever, or pain It is often accompanied by shortness of breath, dizziness, or heart palpitations Feels progressively worse over time These signs do not necessarily point to something serious, but they suggest your body is asking for a closer look. Why Evaluation Matters At Sisselman Medical Group, fatigue is never dismissed as “just being tired.” It is considered a symptom that warrants a full evaluation. A proper workup may include a detailed history and physical exam, along with targeted lab testing to detect underlying causes. In many cases, fatigue is reversible once the root issue is found. This may mean addressing a sleep disorder, correcting a deficiency, adjusting medications, or managing metabolic health. The key is not guessing — it’s investigating. The Bottom Line Feeling tired now and then is part of life. But ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest is not something you should ignore or push through. It is your body’s way of signaling that something deeper may be going on. If you’ve been running on empty for longer than you can remember, it may be time to stop asking how to “get more energy” and start asking why your energy is being drained in the first place. A discussion with your healthcare provider is the first step toward getting real answers — and getting back to feeling like yourself again.