GLP-1 Medications Online: Common Questions Answered

GLP-1 medications are prescription treatments in Singapore that help with weight management and diabetes by reducing appetite, delaying stomach emptying, and improving blood sugar control. Approved options include Saxenda, Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, and Mounjaro. These medications are only available with a doctor's prescription and are offered via telehealth platforms like Trimly, which provide consultations, medication delivery, and regular follow-ups.

Key Points:

Who qualifies? Adults with a BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related health conditions.
How they work: Reduce appetite, slow digestion, and improve insulin sensitivity.
Results: 5–15% weight loss over 6–12 months with lifestyle changes.
Costs: Start at S$350/month, varying by dosage and brand.
Side effects: Common ones include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea; serious risks like pancreatitis are rare.
Access: Requires teleconsultation with a Singapore-registered doctor and compliance with MOH regulations.

Quick Overview:

Eligibility: Based on BMI and health history.
Process: Online screening, video consultation, prescription, and home delivery.
Treatment Duration: Typically 6–12 months; stopping abruptly may cause weight regain.
Lifestyle Pairing: Diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management are necessary for long-term success.

GLP-1 treatments are not a quick fix but a medical solution for managing obesity and diabetes, requiring commitment to healthier habits for sustainable outcomes.

Eligibility and Safety Considerations

Who Can Use GLP-1 Medications?

In Singapore, GLP-1 medications for weight management are generally prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher. Those with a BMI between 27 and 29.9 kg/m² may also qualify if they have at least one weight-related health condition. Doctors will evaluate factors like your past efforts with diet and exercise, family history of obesity or diabetes, and your willingness to commit to lifestyle changes alongside medication. This approach highlights the importance of combining medication with broader lifestyle adjustments.

These medications are specifically intended for individuals facing obesity or significant metabolic risks. If someone falls below the obesity thresholds and lacks clear weight-related health issues, doctors usually recommend structured lifestyle interventions first, reserving GLP-1 medications for cases that meet established medical criteria.

Side Effects and Health Risks

Once eligibility is established, it’s essential to understand the potential side effects. Commonly reported issues include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. To minimise discomfort, doctors may suggest gradually increasing the dose, eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding very oily or spicy foods, staying hydrated, or temporarily lowering the dose if symptoms become severe.

However, there are rare but serious risks to be aware of. These include acute pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney issues (often linked to dehydration from vomiting), and thyroid concerns observed in animal studies. If you experience any of the following warning signs, seek immediate medical help: sudden, severe abdominal pain; yellowing of the eyes or skin; very dark urine; persistent nausea or vomiting; difficulty swallowing; neck swelling; or signs of severe dehydration, such as dizziness or minimal urine output.

Medical Screening and Doctor Oversight

Before prescribing GLP-1 medications, doctors conduct a thorough review of your medical history, current medications, allergies, family history of endocrine cancers, and past weight loss attempts. They calculate your BMI using height and weight measurements and often request baseline blood tests to ensure the medication is safe for you. Conditions that may make GLP-1 use unsuitable include previous pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disorders, a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

In Singapore, the Ministry of Health (MOH) requires two-way audiovisual teleconsultations where both the doctor and patient can see and hear each other, ensuring safe and regulated access to these medications. For first-time prescriptions, some platforms may require an in-person consultation or baseline tests before proceeding. Regular follow-ups, typically every 4 to 12 weeks, allow doctors to monitor side effects, weight changes, blood sugar levels (if relevant), and blood test results, adjusting the dose as needed. Platforms like Trimly provide free, unlimited follow-ups and structured programmes that combine GLP-1 medication with lifestyle coaching, promoting safer and more effective long-term outcomes.

For women of reproductive age, doctors discuss effective contraception during treatment, as GLP-1 medications are not recommended during pregnancy due to limited safety data. Telehealth providers will specifically ask about menstrual cycles, pregnancy plans, and current contraception to ensure ongoing safety throughout the treatment process.

GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss – FAQs Answered by a Primary Care Provider

How to Access GLP-1 Medications Online in Singapore

If you're considering GLP-1 medications for weight management, it's essential to understand the strict regulations and clinical protocols that govern their access in Singapore.

Singapore's Regulatory Requirements

In Singapore, GLP-1 medications can only be obtained with a valid prescription issued by a Singapore-registered doctor. These are classified as prescription-only drugs, and the Ministry of Health (MOH) has specific requirements for how they can be prescribed.

Teleconsultations for prescription medications must include two-way audiovisual communication. Be cautious of platforms that bypass this requirement by relying solely on online forms or offering guaranteed prescriptions without real-time consultations. Similarly, avoid unverified sellers - often found on social media or online marketplaces - who may sell these medications at suspiciously low prices, in unlabelled packaging, or without clear manufacturer details. Such practices raise serious concerns about the authenticity and quality of the drugs. To ensure safety and compliance, always choose MOH-registered telehealth providers.

The Telehealth Process for GLP-1 Medications

Accessing GLP-1 medications through telehealth involves several steps designed to ensure safety and suitability:

Initial Registration and Screening: Start by filling out an online form with details like your age, weight, height, weight-loss goals, medical history, and current medications. This helps the clinic determine if you're eligible for a teleconsultation.
Doctor Consultation: You'll have a 10–20 minute video consultation with a doctor. During this session, the doctor will confirm your BMI, discuss your lifestyle habits, check for contraindications, and explain how GLP-1 medications work. They’ll also outline realistic expectations, potential side effects (such as nausea or vomiting), and what to monitor during treatment. Blood tests may be requested to evaluate your kidney and liver function.
Personalised Treatment Plan: If GLP-1 treatment is deemed appropriate, the doctor will provide a personalised plan. This plan typically includes the specific type of GLP-1 medication, starting dose, titration schedule, and follow-up guidelines. It often comes with recommendations for diet and exercise to complement the medication.
Medication Delivery: Once payment is completed, the medication is dispensed by a licensed pharmacy and delivered to your address in Singapore. Injectable medications are usually handled with cold-chain delivery to maintain their integrity and come with detailed instructions for use.
Ongoing Monitoring: Scheduled teleconsultations allow the doctor to track your progress, adjust dosages, and address any concerns. Regular follow-ups ensure the treatment remains effective and safe.

Before your consultation, prepare key information such as your recent weight, height, relevant blood test results, a list of medications and allergies, and details of any chronic conditions. This preparation helps streamline the process and ensures the doctor has all the necessary information to make informed recommendations.

Trimly: Doctor-Led Telehealth for GLP-1 Medications

Trimly

Trimly is one of the MOH-approved telehealth platforms offering a convenient and doctor-led approach to weight management in Singapore. Their process aligns with the telehealth steps mentioned earlier, ensuring safety and compliance.

Here’s how Trimly works:

Medical Questionnaire and Consultation: Start with an online medical questionnaire, followed by a video consultation with a Singapore-registered doctor. The doctor will assess your eligibility, discuss your weight-loss goals, and design a customised treatment plan that may include oral or injectable GLP-1 medications, tailored to your needs.
Medication Delivery: Once prescribed, your medication is dispensed through approved channels and delivered directly to your doorstep with clear usage instructions. Pricing for GLP-1 plans at Trimly starts at $350 per month, though costs may vary based on dosage, brand, and individual requirements.
Ongoing Support: Trimly provides free, unlimited follow-ups, allowing you to regularly check in with their medical team. These follow-ups help manage side effects, adjust doses, and support sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle. This comprehensive, doctor-led approach ensures that GLP-1 treatment becomes part of a long-term weight management strategy rather than a short-term solution.

Costs and Treatment Experience

Cost of GLP-1 Medications in Singapore

The cost of GLP-1 medications in Singapore is structured to ensure clarity and ease for patients. Monthly telehealth GLP-1 treatment starts at S$350, with the exact price depending on the type, dosage, and brand of medication. As treatment progresses and doses increase - such as moving from 0.25mg to 1mg or 2.4mg of semaglutide - monthly costs may rise by S$100 to S$200.

Most telehealth programmes provide bundled pricing, which includes several services in the monthly fee. For instance, Trimly’s pricing starts at S$350 per month, covering medication, video consultations, doorstep delivery in climate-controlled packaging, and unlimited follow-ups. This all-inclusive approach ensures there are no unexpected fees for check-ins or dose adjustments.

"The pricing was clear and affordable, and I liked having options instead of a one-size-fits-all package." - Natalie (Trimly patient)

With transparent pricing in place, understanding the dosing schedule and treatment timeline is the next step.

Dosing Schedule and Treatment Duration

GLP-1 medications are introduced gradually to reduce side effects like nausea. For injectable semaglutide, the treatment starts at 0.25mg weekly for four weeks, then increases to 0.5mg and may go up to 2.4mg, depending on how you respond. Oral Rybelsus begins at 3mg daily for 30 days, followed by an increase to 7mg, with a maximum dose of 14mg. Your doctor will create a customised dosing plan to ensure a smooth transition through these stages.

The initial treatment period typically lasts 6 to 12 months, with many programmes offering structured 6-month plans that include regular check-ins and medication refills. Patients generally see a 5% to 10% reduction in body weight within 3 to 6 months, and about 10% to 15% over 12 months when combining medication with lifestyle changes.

To get the most out of your treatment, proper medication storage and administration are crucial.

Practical Tips for Using GLP-1 Medications

Singapore’s warm, humid climate makes proper storage essential. Injectable GLP-1 pens should be refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C before their first use. After opening, they can be stored at room temperature (up to 30°C) for 28 to 56 days, depending on the medication. Avoid freezing them or exposing them to direct sunlight. Using an insulated pouch can help maintain the correct temperature. For oral Rybelsus, store it below 30°C in a dry location.

When deciding between self-injection or oral medication, consider your lifestyle. Weekly injectable pens (such as those containing semaglutide or Saxenda) offer the convenience of once-a-week administration using a fine needle injected into the abdomen or thigh. On the other hand, oral Rybelsus provides a needle-free option but requires strict adherence to fasting rules and daily dosing. Trimly’s programmes include pharmacist-led video guidance for your first injection and ongoing support via unlimited messaging, making either choice manageable.

"Being able to chat with the clinic online and adjust my plan when I hit plateaus made a lot of the difference in staying consistent." - Adam (Trimly patient)

Long-Term Use and Lifestyle Considerations

Why Long-Term Use May Be Needed

GLP-1 medications are designed to treat obesity as a chronic condition, not as a quick fix. Many telehealth programmes in Singapore recommend using GLP-1 medications for at least 6 to 12 months. With consistent use and lifestyle changes, patients typically see around 5% weight loss by the 6-month mark and up to 10–15% by the end of a year.

Stopping these medications abruptly often leads to significant weight regain within a year. This isn't due to a lack of willpower but rather the way our bodies naturally regulate weight. Experts strongly discourage using GLP-1 medications for cosmetic purposes, stressing that they are medical treatments for chronic conditions and not shortcuts for appearance-based goals.

To achieve lasting results, these medications must be paired with consistent lifestyle adjustments.

Combining GLP-1 Treatment with Lifestyle Changes

GLP-1 medications work by curbing appetite, making it easier to adopt healthier eating habits. In Singapore, this might involve choosing more balanced local meals - like vegetable-heavy cai png, cutting back on sugary drinks in favour of water or unsweetened beverages, and saving deep-fried hawker fare for special occasions. Feeling less hungry can help with portion control and encourage smaller, more frequent meals.

Exercise is equally important. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, such as brisk walking, light jogging, or cycling. Add muscle-strengthening exercises twice a week for well-rounded fitness. If your schedule is tight, break it into manageable chunks - a 10- to 20-minute walk during lunch or quick home workouts like squats and push-ups can make a difference.

Don’t overlook the role of sleep and stress management. Poor sleep and chronic stress can increase hunger hormones, triggering cravings for high-calorie foods - even when on GLP-1 medications. Target 7 to 9 hours of sleep nightly, stick to a regular bedtime, and reduce screen time before sleeping. To manage stress, simple practices like deep breathing, short walks, or mindfulness exercises can help. Telehealth providers may also check for signs of burnout or mood-related concerns and connect you with further support if needed.

Monitoring and Dose Adjustments Over Time

Ongoing monitoring is key to success. Telehealth programmes often include regular video consultations and track metrics like weight, BMI, waist circumference, and side effects. Follow-ups are typically scheduled every few weeks or months to review progress, adjust medication doses, and reinforce lifestyle habits. For instance, clinics like Trimly offer free unlimited follow-ups, ensuring continuous support without extra charges.

Doctors fine-tune GLP-1 doses based on factors such as weight loss progress, side effects, blood sugar levels (for diabetic patients), and individual preferences. If significant side effects arise, your doctor may lower the dose, switch to a different medication, or explore alternatives. On the other hand, if weight loss stalls despite good adherence to lifestyle changes, the dose might be adjusted, or underlying medical factors could be reassessed.

When it’s time to consider stopping GLP-1 treatment, doctors evaluate factors like the amount of weight lost, how stable that loss is, improvements in related health conditions, and your ability to maintain healthy habits. If you’ve reached a stable, healthier weight with strong lifestyle practices, your doctor might gradually reduce the dose instead of stopping it outright, while closely monitoring any changes. If significant weight regain occurs, you and your doctor may decide to resume treatment, understanding that managing obesity is a long-term journey rather than a one-time solution.

Conclusion

GLP-1 medications offer an effective, evidence-supported approach to managing weight for individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes. When paired with lifestyle adjustments, these treatments can lead to approximately 5% weight loss by the sixth month and as much as 10–15% by the end of the first year. By regulating appetite, slowing digestion, and improving blood sugar levels, they tackle key metabolic challenges, promoting both weight loss and better overall metabolic health.

In Singapore, accessing GLP-1 treatments has become easier through MOH-approved telehealth platforms like Trimly. These platforms allow you to consult licensed doctors via video calls from the comfort of your home. Based on your needs, doctors can provide personalised treatment plans and have medication delivered directly to your doorstep. This tailored approach ensures that the treatment aligns with your goals and preferences.

Safety is a top priority. Comprehensive medical screenings, detailed consultations, and continuous monitoring ensure that GLP-1 medications are prescribed appropriately. Regular follow-ups enable doctors to fine-tune dosages, address any side effects, and track progress, making the process both safe and effective.

GLP-1 treatments are designed for long-term weight management. To maximise their benefits, combine your prescription with healthier eating habits, consistent exercise, sufficient sleep, and stress management. This holistic approach increases your chances of achieving sustainable results for both weight and metabolic health.

If you're thinking about starting GLP-1 treatment, consult a licensed doctor through a registered telehealth platform. They’ll evaluate your medical history, determine your eligibility, and craft a plan tailored to your lifestyle and goals. Take the first step today and begin your journey toward lasting weight management.

FAQs

How do GLP-1 medications support weight loss?

GLP-1 medications play a role in weight loss by curbing appetite and enhancing feelings of fullness, which can make it simpler to consume fewer calories. They achieve this by mimicking a natural hormone in the body responsible for managing hunger and digestion.

Beyond appetite regulation, these medications help stabilise blood sugar levels and support metabolic functions, contributing to healthier weight loss over time. When incorporated into a doctor-supervised treatment plan, they can serve as a helpful option for managing weight and improving overall health.

What side effects can occur with GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 medications can sometimes lead to side effects like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, or abdominal discomfort. Some people might also feel dizzy, tired, or experience low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), especially if these medications are combined with other diabetes treatments.

Although these side effects are usually manageable, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about any issues you face. Regular check-ups can help keep your treatment both safe and effective.

How do I get GLP-1 medications through telehealth in Singapore?

Accessing GLP-1 medications via telehealth in Singapore is straightforward and convenient. Begin by scheduling an online consultation with a licensed doctor. During the video call, the doctor will go over your medical history, discuss your weight management goals, and assess whether GLP-1 medications are a suitable option for you. If prescribed, the medication will be delivered directly to your doorstep, saving you the trouble of visiting a clinic or pharmacy.

This entirely online process allows you to take care of your health and well-being without ever leaving the comfort of your home.