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Doctor visits · 2 min read

What labs to ask about on a GLP-1

Which blood tests might your doctor check while you are on Wegovy, Ozempic or Zepbound? Here is a plain-language list of common labs and why they matter.

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Sourced from FDA labels and professional guidelinesChecked by the evenwell team, not a clinician · Updated

Key points

Labs your doctor may consider

TestWhy it might be checked
A1c / fasting glucoseBlood sugar, especially with diabetes or prediabetes
Kidney function (creatinine, eGFR)Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can affect kidneys
Lipid panelCholesterol often changes with weight
Liver testsFatty liver and gallbladder concerns
Ferritin / ironHair shedding, heavy periods, fatigue
Thyroid (TSH)Tiredness, feeling cold, cycle changes
Vitamin B12Especially if you also take metformin
Vitamin DBone health in midlife
Pregnancy testBefore starting, if you could be pregnant

This is a conversation starter, not a recommended panel. There is no guideline that sets a standard set of blood tests for being on a GLP-1 — which tests make sense depends on your history, your other medicines and what you’re being treated for. Your prescriber decides, and may well order none of these.

Questions to ask

Track your results

Log key numbers over time, like A1c, cholesterol and ferritin. Seeing trends next to your dose history makes follow-ups more useful.

Common questions

Do I need blood tests before starting a GLP-1?

Your prescriber decides based on your history. Many check a baseline.

Can a GLP-1 affect my kidneys?

Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can. Staying hydrated helps protect them.

Why check B12?

Low B12 is a known effect of metformin, which some people take with GLP-1s.

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If this applies to you, it's worth asking your prescriber about. evenwell doesn't replace medical advice.

Sources

verified Zepbound and Wegovy prescribing information, §5 (FDA) open_in_new
verified American Diabetes Association Standards of Care
Track this alongside every dose.
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