Frequently asked questions

Yes. We run a physician-led pediatric weight management program for teens in the Los Angeles area — including Encino, Tarzana, and the San Fernando Valley — and by telehealth across California. It combines a specialist evaluation, GLP-1 treatment when appropriate, and five included dietitian visits. See the program →

Yes. Our program provides medical care for adolescent obesity, led by two board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists. We treat weight as a medical condition, with weight-loss support that pairs medication and nutrition under a physician's supervision. GLP-1 medication is FDA-approved for adolescents ages 12 to 18.

We are contracted with most PPO plans and accept many HMO plans (some HMO plans require a referral or prior authorization). What your plan covers for specific visits and medications depends on your individual policy — we'll help you understand your benefits when you book. See insurance details →

Adolescent obesity is a medical condition — not a willpower problem — and it carries real health risks over time. For some teens, when diet and lifestyle changes alone haven't been enough, GLP-1 medications under a physician's care can help.

Whether it's right for your child is a decision made by a board-certified physician after an individual evaluation. We'll be honest with you either way.

Usually not. This is medical treatment for adolescent obesity — not a program for cosmetic or minor weight loss. GLP-1 medication is considered only when a teen's weight is a medical concern and lifestyle changes alone haven't been enough, and a physician always decides after an individual evaluation.

If your teen wants to lose a small amount of weight and isn't in that category, we'll tell you honestly — and time with our registered dietitian may be a better fit than medication.

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone your body naturally makes that helps regulate appetite and blood sugar. GLP-1 medications act like that hormone — helping a person feel full sooner and eat less. Some are FDA-approved for weight management in adolescents. A physician determines whether one is appropriate for your teen.

Medication works best alongside better nutrition. A registered dietitian helps your teen build sustainable eating habits so the results last beyond the prescription. That's why five dietitian visits are included at no additional cost.

Teens are still growing, and GLP-1 treatment needs real medical supervision: a proper evaluation, correct dosing for a young person, monitoring for side effects, and nutrition support. Mail-order prescriptions skip the physician who actually knows your child.

Here, board-certified doctors oversee every step — and a dietitian supports the plan.

Right now, GLP-1 treatment for teens is available only as an injection — the pill (oral) version isn't yet approved for adolescents. The encouraging news: an oral option is expected to become available within about a year. In the meantime, the injections use a very small needle, and we'll help your teen — and you — get comfortable with it.

When an injectable is used, we teach both your teen and you exactly how to use it. The pens are designed to be simple, with a small needle — and depending on age and comfort, a parent can give the injection instead. We make sure your family feels confident before anyone starts.