What You Need to Know About GLP-1 for Weight Loss Program
What is GLP-1?
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. GLP-1-based medications are commonly used for diabetes management and medical weight management under clinical supervision.
GLP-1 medications are also known as:
Ozempic, Mounjaro, Semaglutide, Wegovy, Zepbound/Tirzepatide.
Eligibility & Requirements
Who Can Join the Program?
You may be a suitable candidate if:
- Your BMI is 30 or higher, or
- Your BMI is 27 or higher with a weight-related condition (high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea)
A physician will review your overall health and medications to ensure GLP-1 treatment is safe and appropriate.
Does OHIP cover GLP-1?
- OHIP covers consultations.
- OHIP does not cover GLP-1 medications, but private insurance coverage may be available. Check with your provider for eligibility and authorization requirements.
Do GLP-1 Benefits Last?
Yes! GLP-1 medications can provide meaningful, lasting improvements when combined with ongoing support:
- Reduce appetite
- Improve blood sugar
- Support steady, sustainable weight loss
Important: Benefits may decline if medication or lifestyle support is stopped suddenly. With continued healthy habits and follow-up, weight is easier to maintain, metabolic improvements are more likely to last, and cravings and hunger remain manageable.
How Can I Access This Service?
Referral Required
Book an appointment to consult with a family doctor to receive a referral.
Contact Us
In-Clinic
This service is available at select Appletree Medical Centres. Appointments are required.
Today’s Wait-Times & ClinicsWhat to Expect During Your Appointment
During your visit, you will receive:
- Assessment of your weight management goals
- Review of your medical history
- Discussion of treatment options
- Education on how GLP-1 medications work
- Ongoing follow-up to track progress and adjust treatment
Ongoing Support Matters
Regular follow-up visits are key to long-term success. These check-ins help:
- Adjust your plan as needed
- Monitor your progress and well-being
- Support lasting, sustainable weight management
Weight-Loss Specialists
Dr. Camille Clark
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
Dr. Camille Clark
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
- Patients ages 18 +
- Weight Loss
- Hypertension
- Lipids
- General Internal Medicine
- Female physician
- Speaks English
A referral is required to book with this specialist. Please consult a family doctor first to obtain a referral.
Available via Virtual Care and in-person at the following location:
368 Slater St. in Ottawa
Send Referrals to:
Fax: (613) 604-0277
Dr. Rajpal Dayal
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
Dr. Rajpal Dayal
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
- General Internal Medicine
- Geriatrics
- Respirology
- Asthma
- COPD
- Acne
- Diabetes
- Male physician
A referral is required to book with this specialist. Please first consult with a family doctor to obtain a referral.
Available in-clinic at:
1595 Merivale Rd.
Send Referrals to:
Fax: (613) 604-0277
Dr. Saad Hussain
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
Dr. Saad Hussain
Internist (In-Clinic, Ottawa)
- No patients under the age of 18
- General Internal Medicine
- Geriatrics
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Male Physician
A referral is required to book with this specialist. Please consult a family doctor first to obtain a referral.
Available in-clinic at:
225 Preston St. and 240 Sparks St in Ottawa
Send Referrals to:
Fax: (613) 604-0277
Dr. Adil Farooqui
Internist (Virtual Care, GTA)
Dr. Adil Farooqui
Internist (Virtual Care, GTA)
- Cardiometabolic diseases
- Hypertension
- Diabetes
- Hyperlipidemia
- Thyroids
- Headaches & Migraines
- Asthma & COPD
- Liver
- Male physician
- Speaks English & Urdu
A referral is required to book with this specialist. Please first consult with a family doctor to obtain a referral.
Available via Virtual Care.
Send Referrals to:
Fax: (647) 490-6330
Dr. Hamad Al-Mutairi
Internist (In-Clinic, GTA)
Dr. Hamad Al-Mutairi
Internist (In-Clinic, GTA)
- Patients ages 18+ only
- No walk-in accepted
- Cardiovascular-related issues
- Palpitations
- Chest Pain
- COPD & Asthma
- Stroke
- Dyslipidemia
- Diabetes
- Cholesterol
- HTN
- Shortness of breath
- Weight Management
- Obesity
- Kidney
- Anemia
- General Internal Medicine
- No Headaches, Allergies, Rashes, Skin-related issues or Visual Changes
- Male physician
- Speaks English & Arabic
A referral is required to book with this specialist. Please first consult with a family doctor to obtain a referral.
Available for in-person visits at the following clinics:
545 Steeles Ave in Brampton
Send Referrals to:
Fax: (647) 490-6330
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly will I see results?
Most patients notice changes within a few weeks, with meaningful weight loss over several months.
Do I need to diet or exercise?
Small, consistent improvements in healthy habits make treatment more effective—extreme dieting isn’t required.
Are there side effects?
Some patients experience mild nausea, bloating, or digestive symptoms early on, which usually improve over time.
Can I stop the medication once I reach my goal?
Some patients transition off with support, while others benefit from ongoing treatment. Your care team will guide you.
Is this program only for people with diabetes?
No. GLP-1 therapy supports metabolic health and weight management for all eligible patients.
What if GLP-1 isn’t right for me?
Alternative treatment options and lifestyle guidance are available, with a plan customized to your needs.