Do I Qualify for a GLP-1? Eligibility Explained

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide are approved for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 or above with at least one weight-related health condition. These are general criteria — a clinician reviews your full health picture before prescribing. Here's how the process typically works.

What are the general BMI criteria?

The published eligibility criteria for GLP-1 weight-management medications centre on BMI:

• BMI of 30 or above (classified as obesity) — the standard threshold for most approved weight-management GLP-1 prescriptions
• BMI of 27 or above — may qualify if you also have at least one weight-related health condition

BMI is a screening tool, not a complete picture of health. A clinician uses it as a starting point alongside your full medical history, current medications, and individual circumstances. Some people with a BMI just below the threshold are assessed and prescribed; others above it may not qualify if there are contraindications.

What weight-related conditions count?

If your BMI is between 27 and 29.9, you may still qualify if you have at least one weight-related condition. The conditions that commonly count include:

• Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• High cholesterol or abnormal lipid levels
• Cardiovascular disease
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or MASH

This list is not exhaustive. The prescribing clinician makes the final determination based on the full picture. The presence of a qualifying condition is a consideration — not an automatic guarantee of a prescription.

Who tends not to qualify?

GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for everyone. Common reasons a clinician may not prescribe include:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
• Active or history of pancreatitis in some cases
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding — GLP-1s are not recommended
• Severe gastrointestinal conditions
• Certain drug interactions with current medications

This is not a complete list. Only a clinician who knows your full medical history can assess whether a GLP-1 is appropriate for you. Do not rely on general information alone.

What does the assessment with a clinician involve?

A typical assessment for a GLP-1 prescription involves:

• Weight and BMI measurement — with context from your height and build
• Medical history review — current conditions, past diagnoses, family history of relevant conditions
• Medication review — checking for interactions with current prescriptions
• Blood pressure check — and sometimes blood tests (glucose, lipids, kidney function)
• Discussion of goals and expectations — what success looks like and what support you'll have

Many people access GLP-1 assessments through their GP, an endocrinologist, or a specialist telehealth service. Telehealth options have expanded significantly and often involve an online questionnaire followed by a video or phone call with a prescribing clinician.

If you think you might qualify, the best first step is simply to have the conversation. Many people assume they won't qualify and don't ask — which means they don't get the opportunity for a proper assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a BMI of 30 to qualify for a GLP-1?
Not always. A BMI of 27 or above may qualify if you also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea. Your clinician makes the final determination.

Can my GP prescribe a GLP-1, or do I need a specialist?
In many countries, GPs can prescribe approved GLP-1 medications. Specialist telehealth services also offer assessment and prescriptions. Requirements vary by country — check what applies where you live.

Are GLP-1s available if I have type 2 diabetes but don't need to lose weight?
Some GLP-1 medications are approved specifically for type 2 diabetes management at lower doses (e.g. Ozempic). Eligibility and dosing differ from the weight-management indication — speak to your clinician.

What if I don't meet the BMI threshold but feel I need support?
Eligibility criteria are general guidelines. Your clinician considers your full health picture. It's worth having the conversation rather than assuming you won't qualify.