Medically Managed Weight Loss
Medical Weight Management That Works With You
Physician-Guided • Evidence-Based • Built to Last
Lasting weight loss is not about willpower -- it is about biology. We treat weight as the chronic medical condition it is, with FDA-approved medications, metabolic testing, and a care team that stays with you. We accept cash only for this service.
Overview
What We Offer
Kariah Healthcare Solutions offers a medically supervised weight loss program led by licensed clinicians -- not a diet plan and not a prescription mill. Every patient starts with a full metabolic evaluation so we understand what is driving weight gain, from insulin resistance and thyroid function to medications and sleep.
From there, we build a plan that may combine GLP-1 and GIP medications such as semaglutide (Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Zepbound), other FDA-approved anti-obesity medications, nutrition guidance, and behavioral coaching. Because our weight management program sits inside the same practice as your primary and specialty care, your provider sees the full picture -- including diabetes, blood pressure, wound healing, and any other treatment you receive with us.
The Evidence
What the Research Shows
The medications we prescribe are backed by large, randomized, placebo-controlled trials published in the New England Journal of Medicine.
Over 68 weeks, compared with about 2% on placebo, when combined with lifestyle changes.1
At the highest dose over 72 weeks, compared with about 3% on placebo.2
With semaglutide in adults with existing heart disease and overweight or obesity, without diabetes.3
Which is why our program includes a long-term maintenance plan, not just a prescription.4
Results are trial averages; individual results vary. Medication is prescribed only when clinically appropriate, as an addition to nutrition and activity changes.
Program Components
What Is Included
Every element of a complete medical weight program, under one roof.
Comprehensive metabolic workup: A1C, lipids, thyroid, liver and kidney function
GLP-1 / GIP therapy (semaglutide, tirzepatide) with careful dose titration
Other FDA-approved anti-obesity medications when GLP-1s aren't the right fit
Personalized nutrition plans focused on protein, fiber, and sustainable habits
Behavioral and lifestyle coaching, including sleep, stress, and activity
Management of weight-related conditions: diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, fatty liver
Side-effect monitoring and dose adjustments between visits
Progress tracking: weight, waist, blood pressure, and lab trends over time
Long-term maintenance planning to protect your results
Eligibility
Is Medical Weight Loss Right for You?
Your Kariah provider makes the final determination after your evaluation. In general, prescription weight-loss medication may be appropriate if you meet the criteria below.
You may be a candidate if you have
- A BMI of 30 or higher, or
- A BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or prediabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, or heart disease
- Tried diet and exercise on their own without lasting results
- A commitment to regular follow-up visits and lifestyle changes
Medication may not be appropriate if you
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2
- Have a history of pancreatitis or certain gallbladder conditions
- Have an active eating disorder
If medication isn't right for you, we'll still build a medically supervised plan around nutrition, activity, and your other health needs.
Our Advantage
The Kariah Difference
Real Medicine, Not a Subscription
Online weight-loss services often prescribe after a questionnaire. Here, a licensed clinician examines you, reviews your labs, and adjusts your plan in person -- with your full medical history in one record.
Whole-Person Metabolic Care
Losing weight changes blood pressure, blood sugar, and medication needs. Because we also manage your chronic conditions, we can safely reduce or adjust other medications as your health improves.
Prior Authorizations Handled
Insurance approval for weight-loss medication can be complicated. Our team prepares the documentation, submits prior authorizations, and handles appeals so you don't have to.
Built for Maintenance
Obesity is a chronic condition, and research shows weight returns when treatment stops abruptly. We plan for the long term -- including dose tapering, maintenance strategies, and ongoing support.
Coverage & Cost
Insurance and Self-Pay Options
We'll make sure you know your costs before you start.
Using Your Insurance
We accept Maryland Medicaid, Medicare, and most major private insurance plans for visits and labs. Coverage for weight-loss medications varies widely by plan, so our team verifies your benefits and pursues prior authorization before your first prescription.
Self-Pay Program
No insurance, or medication not covered? Our self-pay program offers clear, upfront pricing for visits, labs, and ongoing management, and we'll help you find the most affordable way to access your prescribed medication. Call us for current self-pay rates.
Your Journey
What to Expect
- 1
Consultation and Benefits Check
We review your health history, weight history, current medications, and goals. Our team verifies your insurance coverage or walks you through self-pay options.
- 2
Metabolic Evaluation and Labs
A full exam and baseline lab work help us identify what's driving weight gain and confirm that medication is safe for you.
- 3
Your Personalized Plan
Your provider builds a plan that may include medication, nutrition targets, and activity goals. If medication is prescribed, we start at a low dose and increase gradually to minimize side effects.
- 4
Regular Follow-Up
Check-ins every few weeks during dose adjustments, then less often as you progress. We track your weight, blood pressure, and labs, and our team is reachable by phone between visits.
- 5
Long-Term Maintenance
Once you reach your goal, we transition you to a maintenance plan designed to keep the weight off and protect your health gains.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight can I expect to lose?
In clinical trials, people taking semaglutide lost about 15% of their body weight on average over 68 weeks, and people taking the highest dose of tirzepatide lost about 21% over 72 weeks. Your results depend on your health, the medication, and your lifestyle changes. Even a 5-10% loss can meaningfully improve blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects of GLP-1 medications are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and reduced appetite. They are usually mild to moderate and tend to ease over time. We increase your dose gradually and adjust it if side effects become bothersome.
Will I regain the weight if I stop?
Research shows many people regain a significant portion of lost weight within a year of stopping medication. That's why we treat weight as a long-term condition and build a maintenance plan with you, rather than simply ending treatment.
Do I have to take medication?
No. Medication is one tool, not a requirement. Some patients do well with a medically supervised nutrition and lifestyle program alone. Your provider will recommend what fits your health and preferences.
How often will I need to come in?
Expect visits every 4-6 weeks while your dose is being adjusted, then every 2-3 months once you're stable. Visits are often coordinated with any other care you receive at Kariah.
Does insurance cover weight-loss medication?
It depends on your plan. Some plans cover these medications with prior authorization; others exclude them. We check your specific benefits before prescribing and offer self-pay options if coverage isn't available.
Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?
Join patients across Maryland who are improving their health with physician-guided care -- coordinated with everything else we do for you.
16021 Comprint Cir, Gaithersburg, MD 20877 • Mon-Fri, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
References
- Wilding JPH, et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1). N Engl J Med. 2021;384(11):989-1002. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
- Lincoff AM, et al. Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in obesity without diabetes (SELECT). N Engl J Med. 2023;389(24):2221-2232. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2307563
- Wilding JPH, et al. Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: the STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes Obes Metab. 2022;24(8):1553-1564. doi:10.1111/dom.14725
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Prescription medications are provided only after evaluation by a licensed clinician and when medically appropriate. Individual results vary. Wegovy is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S. Zepbound is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company. Kariah Healthcare is not affiliated with these manufacturers.