Do I need to try diet and exercise before getting GLP-1 medications?

Insurance companies often require documented attempts at lifestyle modification before approving GLP-1 medications. Typical requirements include 3-6 months of documented weight management efforts through your medical records. These may include: primary care visits addressing weight, nutritionist consultations, commercial weight loss program participation (Weight Watchers, Noom, etc.), documented exercise programs, or previous weight loss medication trials. However, if you have significant obesity-related comorbidities like uncontrolled diabetes or severe sleep apnea, some plans waive lifestyle trial requirements. The FDA approval doesn't require prior lifestyle attempts, but insurance prior authorization processes often do. For cash-pay patients, no documentation is required. Document your efforts starting now - keep food diaries, exercise logs, and appointment records. Some providers can backdate documentation if you've discussed weight in previous visits, but explicit weight management documentation strengthens appeals.