The GLP-1 Starter Checklist: Everything to Have Ready

3 min read Updated Dec 2025

Before You Start

Getting prepared before your first dose makes the whole process smoother. Here's everything you need to have ready.

Government-issued photo ID Driver's license, passport, or state ID for verification

Current weight Weigh yourself the day you fill out the intake form

Height For BMI calculation—be accurate

List of current medications Include dosages and how long you've been taking them

Medical history summary Surgeries, chronic conditions, hospitalizations

Weight-related conditions (if any) Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, PCOS, etc.

Family medical history Especially thyroid cancer or MEN2 syndrome

What's the titration schedule? How quickly will you increase doses?
How do I contact you if I have side effects? Know the process before you need it
What should I do if I miss a dose? Get clear instructions upfront
Do I need any lab work? Some providers require baseline labs
How will refills work? Auto-ship? Monthly check-ins?

When your medication arrives:

Check the package immediately. Ensure ice packs are still cold and medication isn't frozen.
Refrigerate right away. Don't leave it sitting on the counter.
Read the instructions. Vials and pens have different procedures.
Pick your injection day. Choose a consistent day each week. Many people pick a day they're home and relaxed.
Watch a video. If you've never self-injected, YouTube tutorials help—just make sure they're from legitimate sources.

Pro tip: Take your first injection in the evening. If you experience nausea (common early on), you can sleep through the worst of it.

Beyond the physical supplies, set expectations:

Week 1-4 are adjustment. Don't expect dramatic results on the starter dose.
Side effects are temporary. Nausea and fatigue typically improve as your body adapts.
This is a tool, not magic. You still need to make good food choices—the medication just makes it easier.
Track what you eat. Not obsessively, but enough to notice patterns in what makes you feel good vs. bad.

Ready to find a provider?