Medical weight loss · Hillcrest, San Diego
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Weight Loss in San Diego
Prescription GLP-1 weight loss medicine after a medical evaluation with Dr. James Veltmeyer, MD. Your first dose is with a registered nurse, with check-ins as your dose steps up and a plan for your face and skin as the weight comes off.
- Semaglutide
- Tirzepatide
- Face & skin plan
12-week starter from $1,250. Quote CONJURE1 when you reach out.
Starting or on treatment? GLP-1 before and after care guide (PDF) · See care steps
How it works
What Is GLP-1 Weight Loss?
GLP-1 is a gut hormone that helps regulate appetite. Semaglutide and tirzepatide are once-weekly injectable medicines that act on its receptors, which sit in parts of the brain that control hunger. Tirzepatide also acts on a second hormone receptor, GIP. Both slow how quickly your stomach empties, so you feel full on less food. They work alongside a reduced-calorie diet and more physical activity, not instead of them.
- 1
Less hunger
Appetite signals quiet down, so smaller portions feel like enough.
- 2
Full for longer
Food leaves the stomach more slowly after each meal.
- 3
Steadier sugar
The pancreas releases insulin when blood sugar rises.
Two prescription options
Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide
Both are once-weekly injections. Pricing for each is in the price list below. Average results from the large trials behind each FDA-approved weight-management version are below.
GLP-1
Semaglutide
The active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®. Acts on GLP-1 receptors only.
- Once-weekly injection
- Dose steps up every 4 weeks at the start
- 12-week starter: $1,250, then $1,500 per 12 weeks
STEP 1 trial, adults with obesity or overweight, with diet and exercise. Source: Wegovy® FDA label.
GIP + GLP-1
Tirzepatide
The active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®. A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor medicine.
- Once-weekly injection
- Dose steps up in stages of at least 4 weeks
- 12-week starter: $1,500, then $2,000 per 12 weeks
SURMOUNT-1 trial, adults with obesity or overweight without diabetes, with diet and exercise. Source: Zepbound® FDA label.
These are averages from separate trials, not a promise or a head-to-head comparison. Some people lose more, some less, and a few do not respond. Individual results vary.
Your first 12 weeks
Start Low, Step Up Slowly
Both medicines start at a low dose that steps up gradually, which helps your stomach adjust. Your provider sets every dose change based on how you feel.
- Weeks 1–4
Starting dose
First injection with your nurse at Conjure, then once a week at home.
- Weeks 5–8
First step up
If you are tolerating it, the dose may increase. Stomach side effects are most likely around increases.
- Weeks 9–12
Check in
Another step up if appropriate, then a review of progress, side effects and what comes next.
Weight usually comes off gradually. NIH guidance notes that if you have not lost at least 5% of your weight after 12 weeks on the full dose, your provider will probably advise stopping it or may suggest a different plan.
Side effects
GLP-1 Side Effects, Honestly
Most side effects are mild and settle with time. These come from the FDA labels for both medicines.
- Most common
Stomach
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and stomach pain.
- When
Dosage increases
Stomach effects happen most while the dose steps up and tend to ease over time.
- Also reported
Other effects
Indigestion, reflux, belching, bloating, fatigue, headache, dizziness and hair loss.
- Easing them
Small meals
Eat slowly, stop when full, and tell your nurse early so your dose plan can adjust.
Call your provider right away for
- Severe stomach pain that will not go away, with or without vomiting (possible pancreatitis)
- Pain in the upper stomach, fever, yellow skin or eyes, or clay-colored stools (possible gallbladder problems)
- A lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing (allergic reaction)
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or very little urine, after ongoing vomiting or diarrhea
Both FDA labels carry a boxed warning: these medicines caused thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents, and whether they do in people is unknown.
How to start
Your GLP-1 Program, Step by Step
Consult
Start by text or FaceTime with a Satori nurse to talk through goals and history.
Evaluate
Dr. Veltmeyer reviews your health history and orders labs when required.
First dose
Your nurse gives your first injection at Conjure and shows you how.
Check in
Weekly doses at home, with check-ins and texts to your nurse between visits.
Is it right for you?
Who GLP-1 Weight Loss Is For
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher
- Or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol
- Ready to pair a weekly injection with eating less and moving more
- Comfortable with check-ins and an honest conversation about the long term
The National Institutes of Health is clear that weight-management medicines are not for changing how you look alone. A prescription is written only after a medical evaluation.
When It Is Not the Right Fit
These medicines are not right for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide or tirzepatide, or anyone who is pregnant. Tell your provider if you are planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, have had pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, have severe gastroparesis (very slow stomach emptying), kidney problems or diabetic eye disease, take insulin or a sulfonylurea, or have surgery or sedation coming up.
On tirzepatide and birth control pills? The label advises adding a barrier method or switching for 4 weeks after starting and after each dose increase.
Beyond the scale
A Plan for Your Face as You Lose Weight
Lose Weight, Keep Your Glow
When weight comes off quickly, the face can lose volume too, the look often called “Ozempic face” or “GLP-1 face.” Because the Satori team works right here at Conjure, your face plan can sit alongside your weight plan.
- Hollowing and lost volume: Sculptra & Radiesse
- Targeted contour for cheeks, chin and lips: dermal fillers
- Loose or crepey skin: Morpheus8 RF microneedling or Forma skin tightening
GLP-1 pricing
Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Cost
Most people start with a 12-week program, usually need a second 12 weeks, then move to maintenance. Pricing varies with dose, so the price steps up as your dose does.
- 01
Start
12-week starter
A low first dose that steps up gradually, with nurse check-ins along the way.
Semaglutide $1,250Tirzepatide $1,500
- 02
Continue
12-week continuation
Most people need a second 12 weeks as the dose reaches the level that works for them.
Semaglutide $1,500Tirzepatide $2,000
- 03
Maintain
4-week maintenance
Smaller 4-week packages to help you hold your progress once you reach your goal.
Semaglutide from $500Tirzepatide from $700
| Program | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide GIP + GLP-1 |
|---|---|---|
| 12-week starterMost start hereYour first 12 weeks | $1,250 | $1,500 |
| 12-week continuationSecond 12 weeks and on | $1,500 | $2,000 |
| 8-week starterYour first 8 weeks | $850 | $1,350 |
| 8-week continuationSecond 8 weeks and on | $1,100 | $1,650 |
| 4-week maintenancePricing varies with dose | Starting at$500$500–$600 | Starting at$700$700–$800 |
Prefer a shorter commitment? The 8-week program follows the same start-then-continue pattern. Maintenance packages are priced by dose: semaglutide $500 to $600 and tirzepatide $700 to $800 per 4 weeks.
Mention CONJURE1 when you call or text.
Satori Medical Aesthetics sets pricing, which is subject to change. Your nurse confirms your dose and total before you start. A medical evaluation is required, and not everyone qualifies.
Ask us anything
GLP-1 Weight Loss FAQ
Cost, side effects, candidacy and what comes after. Compare every option on the med spa menu.
Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. Conjure Skin Therapies and Satori Medical Aesthetics are not affiliated with or endorsed by either company. Trial figures come from each product’s FDA prescribing information.
How much do semaglutide and tirzepatide cost in San Diego?
Pricing varies with dose. With the Satori Medical Aesthetics team at Conjure, semaglutide is $1,250 for your first 12 weeks and $1,500 for each 12 weeks after that. Tirzepatide is $1,500 for your first 12 weeks, then $2,000. The 8-week program is $850, then $1,100, for semaglutide and $1,350, then $1,650, for tirzepatide. Four-week maintenance packages start at $500 for semaglutide ($500 to $600) and $700 for tirzepatide ($700 to $800). Your nurse confirms your dose and total before you start. Call or text 442.655.8617 and mention code CONJURE1.
How long does a GLP-1 program last?
Most people start with a 12-week program, usually need a second 12 weeks as the dose steps up, then move to 4-week maintenance packages. An 8-week program is also available. Your provider sets the length and dose based on your progress and how you tolerate the medicine.
What is the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide acts on one gut-hormone receptor, GLP-1. Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 medicine, so it acts on two. Both help regulate appetite, so you feel satisfied with less food. In separate trials of the FDA-approved versions, average weight loss was higher with tirzepatide, but the studies were not head-to-head and the right choice depends on your health history and how you tolerate it.
Is semaglutide the same as Ozempic or Wegovy?
Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, and tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro® and Zepbound®. Ozempic and Mounjaro are approved for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy and Zepbound are approved for weight management. Your provider will explain exactly which medication and form you are prescribed.
How much weight can I lose on a GLP-1?
No one can promise a number. In the 68-week trial behind Wegovy, adults on the 2.4 mg dose lost an average of 14.9% of body weight, compared with 2.4% on placebo. In the 72-week trial behind Zepbound, average loss was 15.0% to 20.9% depending on dose, compared with 3.1% on placebo. Both trials paired the medicine with a reduced-calorie diet and more physical activity. Individual results vary.
Am I a candidate for GLP-1 weight loss?
These medicines are meant for adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. Dr. James Veltmeyer, MD, reviews your health history before anything is prescribed. They are not meant only to change how you look.
Who should not take semaglutide or tirzepatide?
These medicines are not right for anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide or tirzepatide, or anyone who is pregnant. Tell your provider if you are planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding, have had pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, have severe gastroparesis (very slow stomach emptying), kidney problems or diabetic eye disease, take insulin or a sulfonylurea, or have surgery or sedation coming up.
What are the side effects of semaglutide and tirzepatide?
The most common are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and stomach pain. Indigestion, belching, reflux, bloating, fatigue, headache, dizziness and hair loss are also reported, and tirzepatide can cause injection site reactions. Stomach side effects happen most while the dose is being increased and tend to ease over time. The FDA labels also list serious risks, including pancreatitis, gallbladder problems and a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors seen in rodents.
How are the injections given?
Both are once-weekly injections under the skin of the stomach, thigh or upper arm. A Satori registered nurse gives your first dose at Conjure and shows you how to do it, then you inject at home once a week. The dose starts low and steps up gradually to help your stomach adjust.
Do I need labs or a doctor’s visit?
Yes, a medical evaluation is required. Dr. James Veltmeyer, MD, Satori’s medical director, reviews your health history and orders labs when required. A prescription is written only if the medication is appropriate for you.
What happens when I stop taking a GLP-1?
According to the National Institutes of Health, you will probably regain some weight after you stop a weight-management medicine. That is why nutrition, activity and a long-term plan matter. Your provider will talk through what comes after your first 12 weeks, including 4-week maintenance packages.
What is “Ozempic face,” and can you help with it?
“Ozempic face” is a nickname for the hollow, deflated look some people notice when they lose weight quickly, because the face loses fat and volume too. At Conjure, the Satori team can plan Sculptra and Radiesse to rebuild collagen and volume, dermal fillers for targeted contour, and Morpheus8 or Forma to tighten loose skin.
Can I take a GLP-1 if I use birth control pills?
Tirzepatide can make birth control pills less reliable. The FDA label advises switching to a non-oral method or adding a barrier method for 4 weeks after starting and for 4 weeks after each dose increase. Tell your nurse about any birth control you use.
Do I need to tell other doctors I am on a GLP-1?
Yes. These medicines slow stomach emptying, so tell every provider before surgery, sedation or anesthesia. Also share them with whoever prescribes your other medicines, especially insulin or diabetes drugs that can lower blood sugar.
Who prescribes and supervises GLP-1 treatment at Conjure?
Satori Medical Aesthetics provides GLP-1 treatment at Conjure, 1450 Washington St, Hillcrest, under the medical direction of Dr. James Veltmeyer, MD. Satori’s registered nurses give your first dose and stay in touch between check-ins.
How should I prepare before starting semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Tell your provider about any personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2, past pancreatitis or gallbladder problems, kidney or diabetic eye disease, pregnancy plans or breastfeeding, and every medicine you take, especially insulin, a sulfonylurea or birth control pills. If you have surgery or sedation coming up, tell your surgeon and anesthesia team. Your nurse sets your dose and shows you how to store and inject your medicine.
What should I eat while on a GLP-1?
Eat small meals slowly and stop when you feel full. Put protein first, add vegetables, fruit and fiber, and go easy on greasy, fried and very sweet foods if they upset your stomach. Sip water through the day, especially with nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, and add strength training a few times a week to help protect muscle.
When should I call about GLP-1 side effects?
Call or text 442.655.8617 if you cannot keep fluids down, have signs of dehydration, severe constipation, upper stomach pain with fever, yellow skin or eyes or clay-colored stools, a lump or swelling in your neck, or new or worsening depression. Call 911 for severe stomach pain that will not go away, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
Aftercare
GLP-1 Before and After Care
Simple steps to start well and feel your best while on treatment. General guidance; always follow your provider's instructions and call us with concerns.
Before You Start
- Tell your provider about any personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN 2. If so, these medicines are not for you.
- Tell us if you have had pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney problems, diabetic eye disease or severe gastroparesis (very slow stomach emptying).
- Pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding? Tell your provider first. These medicines are not used in pregnancy.
- Using birth control pills? With tirzepatide, the label advises adding a barrier method or switching to a non-oral method for 4 weeks after starting and after each dose increase.
- Share every medicine and supplement, especially insulin or a sulfonylurea, which can raise the risk of low blood sugar. Never stop a prescribed medicine on your own.
- Surgery, sedation or a scope coming up? Tell your surgeon and anesthesia team you take a GLP-1. They will tell you how to prepare. Do not stop it on your own.
- Your nurse will set your dose and show you how to inject. Store your medicine exactly as your pharmacy label says, and never freeze it.
- Plan simple meals with lean protein, vegetables, fruit and whole grains, and keep water handy.
While on Treatment
- Inject once a week on the same day, under the skin of the stomach, thigh or upper arm. Rotate the spot each week. Never share pens or needles.
- Eat small meals slowly and stop as soon as you feel full. Go easy on greasy, fried and very sweet foods if they upset your stomach.
- Sip water through the day, and more if you have nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Losing fluids can strain your kidneys.
- Put protein first at each meal and add strength training, about 2 to 3 times a week, to help protect muscle as you lose weight.
- Constipation? Add fiber, fluids and daily walks. Reflux? Avoid lying down right after eating. Ask your nurse before using any over-the-counter remedy.
- Missed a dose? Text your nurse before taking it. Missed-dose timing is different for each medicine. Never take two doses close together.
- On insulin or a sulfonylurea? Shakiness, sweating, dizziness or confusion can mean low blood sugar. Follow your plan and tell your nurse.
- Keep your check-ins. Tell your nurse early about side effects so your dose plan can be adjusted.
- Right afterA little redness or itch where you injected can happen. Note how you feel.
- Day 1Appetite may start to drop. Eat small meals and sip water often.
- Days 2 to 3Fullness or mild nausea may show up. Go slow and skip greasy food.
- Weeks 2 to 4Stomach effects often ease. Build protein, water and strength habits.
- Month 2 and beyondDose may step up and side effects can return briefly. Keep check-ins.
When to call us
Call or text 442.655.8617 if you cannot keep fluids down, have signs of dehydration (dizziness, very little urine), severe constipation, upper stomach pain with fever, yellow skin or eyes or clay-colored stools, a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, or new or worsening depression or thoughts of self-harm.
Call 911 or go to the ER for severe stomach pain that will not go away, with or without vomiting, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
General guidance. Always follow your provider's instructions, and call us with concerns.
Start With a Conversation
Hillcrest medical room · 1450 Washington St · Mention CONJURE1
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