One of the most common questions we get: "Do I qualify for semaglutide?" The honest answer is that only a physician can make that determination — but we can walk you through what they actually evaluate so you know what to expect going into the process.
The Core Eligibility Criteria
For the FDA-approved brand product (Wegovy), labeling specifies these criteria. Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved and has no FDA labeling; our physician uses clinical judgment, often guided by similar criteria:
- BMI ≥ 30 (obesity), OR
- BMI ≥ 27 with at least one weight-related health condition, such as:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- High cholesterol (dyslipidemia)
- Sleep apnea
- Cardiovascular disease
These are not rigid rules — they're clinical guidelines. A physician reviews your full picture, not just your BMI number. Someone with a BMI of 28 and significant metabolic complications may be a stronger candidate than someone with a BMI of 31 and no health concerns.
Who Cannot Take Semaglutide
Semaglutide is not appropriate for everyone. Physicians screen for these contraindications:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- History of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
- History of pancreatitis
- Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
- Certain kidney or gallbladder conditions
- Some medication interactions (your physician reviews your current medications)
If any of these apply to you, GLP-1 therapy may not be appropriate. Your physician will tell you directly — and may suggest alternatives.
What the Intake Process Actually Looks Like
At Southern Vitality, the process is fully online and typically takes about 10 minutes:
- Complete the intake form. You'll answer questions about your health history, current medications, weight history, and goals. Be thorough — the more accurate your answers, the better the physician can evaluate your candidacy.
- Physician review. A licensed physician (not an algorithm) reviews your submission. This is not automated approval. If there are concerns or follow-up questions, they'll reach out.
- Approval and prescription. If approved, a prescription is written and your medication is compounded for you by Rx Compounding Store, a state-licensed pharmacy. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved or reviewed by FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality.
- Medication ships to your door. Most patients receive their first shipment within a few business days of approval.
Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, are not reviewed by FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality, and are not FDA-approved generic versions of brand-name drugs.
Will I Definitely Be Approved?
Not everyone who applies is approved — and that's by design. GLP-1 therapy is a prescription treatment that requires individual medical evaluation. Approving everyone who applies without clinical review isn't medicine; it's a liability.
If your application is not approved, your physician will explain why and may suggest other options. If there's missing information, they'll follow up.
Do I Need Labs Before Starting?
It depends on your health history. Baseline labs (blood work) are commonly recommended — especially if you have diabetes, are on other medications, or have a history of kidney or liver conditions. Your physician will let you know if labs are needed as part of your evaluation.
Ready to Find Out?
The fastest way to know if you qualify is to complete the intake. It takes about 10 minutes, and a licensed physician reviews every submission personally.