How long does it take to prepare for GLP-1?

Allow 2-4 weeks for preparation: medical appointments, insurance authorization, getting supplies, and mentally preparing.

Should I tell people I'm starting GLP-1?

Your choice. Tell close family/friends for support. You don't owe casual acquaintances explanation. See our dining out guide for handling social situations.

What if I forget something on the checklist?

It's okay — most things can be addressed after starting. Focus on medical prep, basic supplies, and stocking your kitchen before first dose.

GLP-1 Starting Checklist: Everything to Do Before Your First Dose

Starting GLP-1 medications? This complete checklist covers medical preparation, kitchen stocking, supplies to buy, and lifestyle adjustments to make before your first dose.

Medical preparation

Get comprehensive bloodwork — see our lab tests guide
Discuss medical history with provider — especially thyroid, pancreas, kidney issues
Review all medications — see our interactions guide
Discuss pregnancy plans — see our pregnancy guide
Set realistic expectations — see our goals guide
Schedule follow-up appointments — typically 4-8 weeks after starting
Get insurance pre-authorization if needed
Apply for manufacturer savings card

Kitchen preparation

Stock GLP-1 friendly foods

Protein shakes ({pchip("premier_protein_chocolate", "Premier Protein")} or {pchip("fairlife_chocolate", "Fairlife")})
Greek yogurt (plain, 2%)
Cottage cheese (low-fat)
Eggs
Lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu)
White rice, sourdough bread, oatmeal
Bananas, berries, peaches
Cucumbers, spinach, cooked vegetables
{pchip("kettle_fire_broth", "Bone broth")} for low-appetite days
{pchip("ginger_chews", "Ginger chews")} for nausea

Clear out trigger foods

Fried foods
Sugary drinks
High-fat processed foods
Sugar alcohols (in protein bars)
Carbonated beverages

Get your supplies

Injection supplies

{pchip("alcohol_pads", "Alcohol prep pads")} (200-count)
Sharps container
Small notebook or app for injection logging

Side effect kit

{pchip("ginger_chews", "Ginger chews")} for nausea
{pchip("sea_band", "Sea-Band wristbands")} for drug-free nausea relief
{pchip("peppermint_oil", "Peppermint oil capsules")} for digestion
{pchip("liquid_iv", "Liquid I.V.")} or {pchip("lmnt_variety", "LMNT")} for hydration
{pchip("miralax", "MiraLAX")} for constipation
{pchip("magnesium_glycinate", "Magnesium glycinate")} for sleep and digestion

Hydration gear

{pchip("hydro_flask_32", "Insulated water bottle")} (32 oz)
Electrolyte sticks (Liquid I.V. or LMNT)

Tracking gear

{pchip("renpho_scale", "Smart scale")} for body composition
{pchip("nicewell_food_scale", "Food scale")} for protein tracking
Notebook or app for food/symptom tracking

Lifestyle preparation

Plan your injection day

Pick a day with no major obligations the next day
Friday evening is most popular (weekend to recover)
Be consistent week to week

Adjust your schedule

Plan for potential fatigue in first week
Don't schedule major events during titration
Arrange backup help if needed (childcare, etc.)

Tell close family/friends

So they can support you
So they understand if you have side effects
So they know it's a private matter (or not)