Consultation
Keely reviews your health history, current medications, and weight loss goals during a comprehensive $75 evaluation.
GLP-1 Weight Loss in Indianapolis, IN
How It Works
Consultation:$75
Medications:Semaglutide & Tirzepatide
Monitoring:Ongoing clinical oversight
Lab Review:Health history & eligibility
Why Traditional Weight Loss Falls Short
Biology Works Against You
For many people in Indianapolis, weight loss is not simply a matter of willpower. When you reduce calories or increase exercise, your body responds by slowing metabolism and increasing hunger hormones like ghrelin. This biological pushback makes sustained weight loss incredibly difficult, and studies show most people regain lost weight within two to five years. The cycle of losing and regaining takes a toll on both physical health and emotional well-being, leaving many feeling frustrated and defeated despite their best efforts.
GLP-1 medications change the equation by working with your biology instead of against it. These injectable medications mimic a natural hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar, helping you feel satisfied with less food while reducing cravings. At Mint Aesthetics & Skin, Keely Phelps PA develops a personalized GLP-1 program that includes health screening, lab work, eligibility assessment, and ongoing monitoring. This medically supervised approach addresses the root hormonal factors behind resistant weight, giving you a realistic and sustainable path to a healthier body.
What Is GLP-1 Weight Loss?
The Science of Incretin Hormones
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonists are a class of injectable medications that mimic a naturally occurring incretin hormone in your body. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes management, these medications have been FDA-approved for chronic weight management after landmark clinical trials demonstrated significant and sustained weight loss. The two primary GLP-1 medications available at Mint Aesthetics & Skin are semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound), which is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist.
GLP-1 medications work through several complementary mechanisms. They slow gastric emptying so food stays in your stomach longer, creating a natural feeling of fullness. They act on appetite centers in the brain to reduce hunger signals and cravings. They also improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation, which helps reduce fat storage. Tirzepatide adds a second mechanism by also activating GIP receptors, which may contribute to its slightly greater average weight loss in clinical trials. Both medications are administered as a simple weekly subcutaneous injection.
Treatment Timeline
Initial Consult
Health screening, labs, eligibility review
First Results
4-8 weeks (appetite changes within days)
Significant Loss
3-6 months (10-15% body weight typical)
Peak Results
12-18 months on maintenance dose
Benefits of GLP-1 Weight Loss
Proven Clinical Results
- 01
Significant Weight Loss
Clinical trials show 15-22% body weight reduction with GLP-1 medications
- 02
Reduced Appetite
Natural hunger suppression without stimulants or crash dieting
- 03
Once-Weekly Dosing
Simple subcutaneous injection just once per week for easy compliance
- 04
Metabolic Improvement
Better blood sugar regulation, reduced inflammation, and cardiovascular benefits
- 05
Medically Supervised
Keely Phelps PA monitors your progress with lab reviews and dose adjustments
GLP-1 vs Other Weight Loss Methods
Compare Your Options
| Treatment | Mechanism | Time Commitment | Average Weight Loss | Duration | Downtime | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLP-1 Medications | Hormone-based appetite regulation | Weekly injection | 15-22% body weight | Ongoing | None | BMI 27+ with comorbidities or BMI 30+ |
| Surgical Weight Loss | Stomach restriction/bypass | Major surgery + recovery | 25-35% body weight | Permanent | 2-6 weeks | BMI 40+ or BMI 35+ with comorbidities |
| Diet Programs | Caloric restriction | Daily meal planning | 5-10% body weight | Varies | None | Mild to moderate weight management |
Who Is a Good Candidate for GLP-1 Weight Loss?
Eligibility and Considerations
GLP-1 medications are designed for adults who have struggled with weight management despite lifestyle modifications. During your consultation, Keely Phelps PA conducts a thorough health history review and lab evaluation to determine if GLP-1 therapy is appropriate for you.
Ideal Candidates for GLP-1 Weight Loss
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol)
- Individuals who have not achieved lasting results with diet and exercise alone
- Those committed to making concurrent lifestyle changes alongside medication
- Patients in overall stable health without contraindicated conditions
Who Should Wait or Avoid GLP-1 Medications
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- History of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Active or recent pancreatitis
- Pregnancy, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Known hypersensitivity to semaglutide, tirzepatide, or excipients
- Severe gastrointestinal disease (gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease)
Keely Phelps PA reviews your complete medical history, current medications, and lab results before recommending a specific GLP-1 medication and dosing protocol. Certain conditions require careful evaluation but are not absolute contraindications.
What Your GLP-1 Journey Looks Like
Lab Work
Keely orders baseline labs including metabolic panel, thyroid function, and A1C to confirm eligibility and safety.
Medication Selection
Based on your labs and health profile, Keely recommends semaglutide or tirzepatide and creates your titration schedule.
Injection Training
Keely demonstrates proper subcutaneous injection technique so you can confidently self-administer at home weekly.
Ongoing Monitoring
Keely tracks your weight, side effects, and labs at regular follow-ups, adjusting dosing as needed for optimal results.
Side Effects & Safety
What to Know
GLP-1 medications are generally well-tolerated, but side effects can occur, particularly during the initial dose titration phase. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and decreased appetite. These are typically mild to moderate and tend to improve over the first few weeks as your body adjusts to each dose level.
Less common side effects include injection site reactions (redness, itching, or mild swelling), headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and potential thyroid concerns. GLP-1 medications carry a boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors observed in rodent studies, though this has not been confirmed in humans.
Keely Phelps PA manages side effects proactively by starting at low doses and gradually titrating upward. If GI symptoms are bothersome, she may slow the titration schedule, adjust timing, or recommend dietary modifications. Regular lab monitoring helps detect any metabolic changes early. Always contact Mint Aesthetics & Skin promptly if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction.
GLP-1 Weight Loss Cost in Indianapolis
Transparent Medical Weight Loss Pricing
Your GLP-1 weight loss journey at Mint Aesthetics & Skin begins with a $75 consultation, which includes a comprehensive health history review and eligibility assessment. This initial visit ensures GLP-1 therapy is safe and appropriate for your individual health profile.
GLP-1 medication costs vary depending on the specific medication prescribed (semaglutide or tirzepatide), your current dose level, and whether brand-name or compounded formulations are used. Keely Phelps PA discusses all pricing transparently during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
What's Included
- Initial consultation and health screening: $75
- Lab review and eligibility determination
- Personalized medication selection and dosing protocol
- Injection training and technique guidance
- Ongoing monitoring and dose adjustments
- Side effect management and support
Mint Aesthetics & Skin accepts financing through Cherry to make your weight loss program more accessible. Many patients find that the health improvements from GLP-1 therapy reduce other medical costs over time.
Why Choose Mint Aesthetics & Skin
Indianapolis Weight Loss Experts
PA-Led Medical Oversight
Licensed Physician Assistant managing your care from consultation through maintenance
Comprehensive Screening
Full health history review and lab work before starting any medication
Personalized Protocols
Customized medication selection, dosing, and titration schedules for your body
Side Effect Management
Proactive monitoring and dose adjustments to minimize GI and other side effects
Related Services
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Related Treatments
Complement your weight loss journey with these services.
Medical Weight Loss
Advanced Skin Technology
Facials & Skin Treatments
GLP-1 Weight Loss FAQ
Answers From Keely Phelps PA
01 What is a GLP-1 agonist?
A GLP-1 agonist is an injectable medication that mimics the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone in your body. This hormone regulates appetite, slows gastric emptying, and improves insulin sensitivity. Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are GLP-1 agonists prescribed for chronic weight management under medical supervision.
02 How does GLP-1 cause weight loss?
GLP-1 medications work through multiple mechanisms: they slow stomach emptying so you feel full longer, reduce hunger signals in the brain, decrease food cravings, and improve how your body processes blood sugar. This combination leads to naturally reduced caloric intake without the constant hunger associated with traditional dieting.
03 Who is a candidate for GLP-1 weight loss?
GLP-1 medications are appropriate for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes. Keely Phelps PA evaluates your complete health history and lab results during a $75 consultation to determine your eligibility.
04 What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Both are GLP-1 agonists, but tirzepatide is a dual-action medication that also activates GIP receptors. In clinical trials, tirzepatide showed slightly greater average weight loss (up to 22% body weight) compared to semaglutide (up to 15%). Keely recommends the best option based on your health profile, goals, and response during treatment.
05 How long until I see results with GLP-1 medications?
Most patients notice reduced appetite within the first one to two weeks. Visible weight loss typically appears by 4-8 weeks, with significant results at 3-6 months. Peak results are generally achieved at 12-18 months on maintenance dosing. Your rate of loss depends on starting weight, medication type, dose, and lifestyle factors.
06 Are GLP-1 medications safe?
GLP-1 medications have been extensively studied in large clinical trials and are FDA-approved for weight management. Common side effects include mild nausea and GI symptoms that typically improve over time. Keely Phelps PA conducts thorough health screening, monitors labs regularly, and manages your dosing to minimize side effects and ensure safety throughout treatment.
07 Do I need to diet and exercise while taking GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications work best when combined with healthy lifestyle changes including balanced nutrition and regular physical activity. While the medication significantly reduces appetite and cravings, sustainable results come from building healthy habits alongside your medical treatment. Keely provides guidance on complementary lifestyle modifications during your check-ins.
08 What happens if I stop taking GLP-1 medication?
Studies show that weight regain can occur after discontinuing GLP-1 medications, similar to other chronic conditions that require ongoing management. Keely Phelps PA works with you to develop a long-term maintenance strategy, which may include a reduced maintenance dose, transition to lifestyle management, or combination approaches.
Location2015 Broad Ripple Avenue
Indianapolis, IN, 46220
Indianapolis, IN, 46220
Phone(317) 748-3169
Schedule Your GLP-1 Weight Loss Consultation
References
- PubMed (PMID: 33567185) - Wilding JPH et al. Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 1 trial): 14.9% mean body weight reduction at 68 weeks.
- PubMed (PMID: 35658024) - Jastreboff AM et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1 trial): up to 22.5% body weight reduction at 72 weeks.
- PubMed (PMID: 34170647) - Davies M et al. Semaglutide 2.4 mg once weekly in adults with overweight or obesity and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2): 9.6% weight reduction with glycemic improvement.
- PubMed (PMID: 35441470) - Rubino DM et al. Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs placebo on weight loss maintenance (STEP 4): sustained weight loss with continued treatment.
- PubMed (PMID: 37385275) - Garvey WT et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity in people with type 2 diabetes (SURMOUNT-2): 14.7% mean weight reduction.