What happens before a prescription?

Gather what you already know

A short note can keep the conversation focused.

• List the medicines and supplements you use.
• Write down past treatment and what happened.
• Note which records you already have.
• Name the main thing you hope care will help with.

Expect questions about your health

Before prescribing semaglutide, tirzepatide or liraglutide, the clinician needs to ask about past illnesses and other medicines. These questions relate to warnings in the September 2026 medicine information.

• Mention any family cancer history, especially the rare cancer named medullary thyroid cancer. If you do not know the cancer’s name, bring any records you have and ask the clinician to check.
• Mention past pancreas inflammation, an illness that can cause severe belly pain that does not go away.
• Mention gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or an operation to remove the gallbladder, and any pregnancy plans.
• The semaglutide and tirzepatide labels also address severe stomach problems, diabetes-related eye problems and planned surgery.
• Ask which part of your history matters to the proposed medicine.

Ask what still needs to be checked

The Federation of State Medical Boards advises state boards. It recommends arranging tests or an examination when needed, or referring you to someone who can arrange them. This guidance is not law.

As of September 2026, online prescribers must follow rules set by each state.

• What information is missing?
• Do you need records, a test or an examination?
• What are the care choices if medicine is not offered?
• Can I have the reason for the decision in writing?