GLP-1 Therapy · Michigan Weight Loss Institute
GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications in Michigan
FDA-approved therapies. Physician-supervised care. Real, lasting results.
Michigan Weight Loss Institute offers semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) — two of the most clinically proven GLP-1 weight loss medications available — under the direct supervision of Dr. Rita Kathawa, MD, double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine. We serve Metro Detroit patients at our Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms locations.
What Are GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications?
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1 — a hormone your body naturally releases after eating. GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of FDA-approved medications that mimic this hormone, producing three powerful effects:
- Appetite suppression — signals your brain that you’re full sooner and for longer
- Slowed gastric emptying — food moves through your stomach more slowly, reducing hunger spikes
- Blood sugar regulation — stimulates insulin release in response to meals, supporting metabolic health
Originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, GLP-1 medications have since been FDA-approved specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and related health conditions. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15–22% of body weight — results far exceeding those of older weight loss medications.
The Two FDA-Approved GLP-1 Medications We Offer
At MWLI, we prescribe both available FDA-approved GLP-1 therapies for weight management. Your physician will recommend the right option based on your medical history, metabolic health, and personal goals.
Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Semaglutide is a weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist. The brand name Wegovy is FDA-approved for chronic weight management. In the landmark STEP 1 clinical trial, patients lost an average of 14.9% of body weight over 68 weeks — compared to 2.4% with placebo.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound)
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist — activating two separate hormone pathways simultaneously. The brand name Zepbound is FDA-approved for chronic weight management. In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, patients lost an average of 22.5% of body weight over 72 weeks.
Who Is a Candidate for GLP-1 Therapy?
GLP-1 medications for weight management are FDA-approved for adults who meet one of the following criteria:
- BMI ≥ 30 (obesity), or
- BMI ≥ 27 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition: Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, cardiovascular disease, or MASLD/NAFLD
A complete medical evaluation is required before starting any GLP-1 therapy at MWLI.
Benefits Beyond Weight Loss: Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health
- Cardiovascular risk reduction — semaglutide reduced major cardiovascular events by 20% in the SELECT trial
- Blood sugar control — significant HbA1c reductions in patients with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- Reduced liver fat — growing evidence supports GLP-1 therapy for NAFLD and MASLD
- Sleep apnea improvement — tirzepatide demonstrated 63% reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (2024 NEJM trial)
Patients with NAFLD/MASLD may see significant improvement with GLP-1 treatment. Michigan Weight Loss Institute’s NAFLD Clinic integrates GLP-1 therapy into a comprehensive metabolic health plan.
Why Physician Supervision Matters for GLP-1 Weight Loss
At Michigan Weight Loss Institute, every GLP-1 prescription is part of a structured Medical Weight Loss Program — not a standalone telehealth prescription.
- Comprehensive initial evaluation — labs, physical exam, and body composition analysis
- Personalized treatment plan — medication selection and dosing tailored to you
- Dose titration support — gradual increases to minimize side effects
- Ongoing monitoring — regular follow-up visits tracking weight, labs, and metabolic markers
- Nutritional and behavioral guidance — evidence-based lifestyle support
Dr. Kathawa is double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine — one of the few physician-led obesity medicine practices in Metro Detroit offering this level of specialized care.
What to Expect: Your GLP-1 Treatment Journey
- Initial Consultation — Full medical evaluation with Dr. Kathawa: labs, vitals, body composition, health history.
- Medication Selection & Prescription — Dr. Kathawa recommends semaglutide or tirzepatide based on your profile. Insurance prior authorization assistance included.
- Start Low, Go Slow — Dose increased gradually over several weeks to minimize side effects.
- Regular Follow-Up Visits — Progress reviews, dose adjustments, and behavioral support.
- Sustained Results — Most patients reach meaningful milestones within 3–6 months.
Now accepting new patients at Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kathawa and find out if GLP-1 weight loss medications are right for you. Locations in Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms.
Frequently Asked Questions: GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications in Michigan
What are GLP-1 weight loss medications?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are FDA-approved medications that mimic a hormone your body produces after eating. They reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and regulate blood sugar. The two approved for weight management are semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound).
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide targets the GLP-1 receptor only. Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, generally producing greater average weight loss (up to 22.5% vs. 14.9% for semaglutide). The right choice depends on your health profile — Dr. Kathawa will guide you.
Are GLP-1 medications available in Michigan?
Yes. MWLI offers FDA-approved semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound) at our Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms locations, under Dr. Kathawa’s direct supervision.
Who is a candidate for GLP-1 weight loss medication?
Adults with BMI ≥ 30, or BMI ≥ 27 with a weight-related condition (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease). A full medical evaluation is required.
How long does it take to see results?
Most patients notice reduced appetite within the first few weeks. Meaningful weight loss (5–10%) is typically visible within 3 months. Maximum results are generally seen after 12–18 months through our Medical Weight Loss Program.
Do you prescribe compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide?
No. MWLI prescribes only FDA-approved branded medications — Wegovy and Zepbound. We do not offer compounded versions.
Does insurance cover GLP-1 weight loss medications?
Coverage varies by plan. Some commercial plans cover Wegovy or Zepbound with prior authorization. Medicare Part D does not currently cover these for weight loss alone. Our team helps with benefits verification and manufacturer assistance programs. Contact us for guidance.
Can GLP-1 medications help with fatty liver disease?
Yes. Emerging evidence supports GLP-1 therapy for reducing liver fat in NAFLD/MASLD. Our NAFLD Clinic integrates GLP-1 therapy into a comprehensive metabolic plan.
What are the most common side effects?
Nausea, constipation, or diarrhea — most common during dose escalation and typically temporary. We titrate doses slowly to minimize discomfort.
Where can I get GLP-1 weight loss medications near me in Michigan?
At Michigan Weight Loss Institute in Sterling Heights (Macomb County) and Bingham Farms (Oakland County). Request a consultation to get started.
Start Your GLP-1 Weight Loss Journey in Michigan
Michigan Weight Loss Institute accepts new patients at our Sterling Heights and Bingham Farms locations. Board-certified physician care. FDA-approved medications. Individualized treatment plans.
