Recent updates to weight loss plans: Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide plans are now available in 1, 4, 6, and 12-month commitment tiers with flat-rate dosing. Name-brand GLP-1 medications (Wegovy, Zepbound, Foundayo, and others) are launching June 11, 2026 as an additional option alongside compounded.
The Maximus Weight Loss Protocol uses clinician-guided GLP-1 medications to support sustainable weight loss by influencing appetite, blood glucose, and energy balance. For details on labs, refills, and shipping, see Weight Loss Protocol: Labs, Refills, and Shipping.
Compounded and name-brand options
Maximus offers both compounded and name-brand GLP-1 medications. Name brand is an additional choice — not a replacement for compounded. Both programs use the same active medications (semaglutide or tirzepatide) and carry the same expected side-effect profile.
Compounded — prepared by licensed 503A pharmacies, available in 1, 4, 6, and 12-month plans. More affordable per month, especially on longer-commitment plans.
Name brand — Wegovy, Zepbound, Foundayo, and others sourced through The Pharmacy Hub (TPH). Monthly plans only. Includes oral options (Wegovy tablets and Foundayo). Launching June 11, 2026.
Your clinician determines which option is appropriate based on your history, goals, and preferences. For pricing on both, see Weight Loss Plan Pricing and Name-Brand GLP-1 Pricing.
How the protocol works
The protocol uses two GLP-1 medications:
Semaglutide — a GLP-1 receptor agonist
Tirzepatide — a dual GLP-1 + GIP receptor agonist (often described as a "step up" from semaglutide because it acts on two pathways instead of one)
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are never taken simultaneously. Your clinician determines which medication is appropriate based on your medical history, lab results, and goals, and may adjust the choice over time. In some cases, GLP-1 therapy may be combined with sermorelin or enclomiphene to support body composition goals.
Who the protocol may be for
The Weight Loss Protocol may be appropriate if you:
Are seeking clinician-guided weight management support
Are interested in GLP-1 or GLP-1 + GIP medications
Have goals related to metabolic health, appetite regulation, or blood glucose
Eligibility is determined by your clinician based on labs, symptoms, and health history.
Who it may not be for
Some individuals are better suited to a different approach depending on:
Medical history
Current medications
Specific health conditions
Your clinician determines whether the protocol is appropriate for you during intake.
What to expect
Results vary based on individual health history, habits, and goals. GLP-1 medications work gradually — most changes build over weeks and months, not days.
Early weeks — most individuals notice changes in appetite first: feeling full sooner, fewer cravings, less interest in snacking.
Ongoing progress — as appetite stabilizes, individuals often find it easier to eat smaller portions and feel satisfied with less food. Weight-loss pace varies based on starting point, lifestyle, consistency with medication, and individual metabolic response.
If you're not seeing changes yet — a slower start does not mean the protocol isn't working. GLP-1 medications act on hormonal pathways that take time to influence appetite, behavior, and body composition. Your clinician evaluates both your reported experience and overall progress.
Side effects
GLP-1 medications are well-studied. Like all medications, they can cause side effects. Most are temporary and improve as your body adjusts.
Common side effects (often resolve within the first few weeks of starting or after a dose increase):
Mild nausea
Diarrhea or loose stools
Constipation
Reduced appetite
Occasional stomach discomfort
When to seek urgent or emergency care:
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Signs of dehydration
Shortness of breath or chest pain
Any severe or rapidly worsening symptom
For non-urgent concerns, message your clinician through your Maximus dashboard.
Medication quality
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are prepared by licensed 503A compounding pharmacies that source active pharmaceutical ingredients matching those used in clinical studies. Name-brand medications are sourced directly from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly through The Pharmacy Hub (TPH). All Maximus partner pharmacies and suppliers meet appropriate accreditation and clinical standards.
Plan and pricing details
For compounded pricing — including the new 1, 4, 6, and 12-month plan tiers — see Weight Loss Plan Pricing.
For name-brand pricing (Wegovy, Zepbound, Foundayo, and others), see Name-Brand GLP-1 Pricing.
For state-specific availability of GLP-1 medications, see GLP-1 Availability by State.
To view your specific monthly rate, log in and visit Manage Account in your dashboard.
FAQ
How long until I see results? Appetite changes often appear within the first one to two weeks. Weight changes typically build over weeks to months.
Can I drink alcohol on GLP-1 therapy? GLP-1 medications can change how your body processes alcohol — some members report feeling effects more quickly or experiencing nausea with smaller amounts. If you choose to drink, moderation is generally recommended.
Should I change my diet? You don't have to follow a specific diet, but balanced nutrition, hydration, and adequate protein support how you feel on the protocol. For more guidance, see Nutrition & Lifestyle Basics on the Weight Loss Protocol.
What if I miss a dose? Do not double up. If you miss a dose, contact your clinician for guidance — the right next step depends on how late you are and your current dose. For product-specific missed dose guidance (name-brand medications), see Name-Brand GLP-1 Medications at Maximus.
Can I switch between semaglutide and tirzepatide? Switching is possible and is determined by your clinician based on your response, side effects, and goals.
Can I switch between compounded and name brand? Yes. Go to Manage Orders & Plans in the app, or message support for help with a mid-plan switch.
Still have questions? For questions about your symptoms, dosing, or progress, message your clinician through your Maximus dashboard. For questions about scheduling, labs, refills, or shipping, see Weight Loss Protocol: Labs, Refills, and Shipping.