GEM SLEEP’s GLP-1 THERAPY PROGRAM

GLP‑1s (glucagon‑like peptide‑1 medications) are a type of medication that mimics a natural hormone your gut (stomach and intestines) produces. The GLP-1 hormone helps regulate blood sugar after eating, ensures healthy digestion, and helps controlling appetite.

GLP‑1 medications activate the brain in the same way your natural GLP‑1 hormones do. This offers you several benefits:

• Improves blood sugar (glucose) control
  • Helps the pancreas release more insulin when blood sugar is high (like after eating), while lowering glucagon (the hormone that raises blood sugar.)
• Slows digestion
  • Helps your food move slowly through the stomach to prevent blood sugar spikes and keep you full longer.
• Reduces appetite and cravings
  • GLP‑1s can help people eat less and often promotes weight loss because they affect appetite regulation signals in the gut and brain.

GEM SLEEP offers Zepbound®, the only GLP–1 FDA approved for OSA, to eligible patients participating in the GLP-1 Therapy program.

Zepbound® prescriptions are fulfilled through the LillyDirect® pharmacy.

Excess weight, especially if it is around the neck and airway, can increase the likelihood of an airway collapse while sleeping. This in turn increases the severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – the collapse of your airway that causes you to gasp to breathe or pauses breathing while sleeping.

Losing just 5-10% of your body weight is shown to significantly improve OSA symptoms like snoring, gasping for air, and for some, healthy sustained weight loss may even resolve the condition. In addition, people sleep better when at a healthy weight which improves:

• Hormone balance,
• Stabilizes your appetite, and
• Provides you with more energy for exercise and better long-term health.

Weight loss can reduce sleep apnea severity and improve CPAP outcomes, making coordination important.

The GEM SLEEP GLP-1 Therapy program supports current GEM SLEEP patients who:

• Have been diagnosed with moderate or severe OSA,
• Have started CPAP therapy and maintain 30-days compliance with their CPAP
• Have a BMI > 30, and
• Meet additional GLP-1 eligibility criteria assessed during the GLP-1 evaluation visit.

The GEM SLEEP GLP-1 Therapy Program is a dual treatment approach to OSA. It utilizes GLP-1 medication in conjunction with CPAP therapy to improve overall health. The GLP-1 Therapy program includes initial GLP-1 consultation, a monthly medication management and support, and periodic clinical check-in visits. Zepbound® medication is paid separately to the fulfilling pharmacy.

A clinical visit with a GEM licensed clinician is required to evaluate if GLP-1s are appropriate for you. The clinician reviews your health history, including medications and other health factors, to determine if you are eligible for GLP-1 medication. In some cases lab work is needed before beginning GLP-1s.

The GLP-1 Support Program provides ongoing medication management and support. You receive access to your entire care team including a dedicated coach. The care team is available to help with any questions or issues on the medication. You also receive access to educational materials for making the most of your GLP-1 therapy. The GEM Support Program also focuses on maintaining the effectiveness of CPAP therapy while on GLP-1 medications.

No. It supports weight loss but must be paired with nutrition, hydration, and physical activity.

Possibly. Risk is much lower when medication is tapered slowly and lifestyle habits are strong.

Most are GI related: nausea, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, or heartburn. Some patients experience none.

Low appetite can cause patients to undereat, risking muscle loss. Protein preserves lean mass and metabolic health.

Every four weeks if needed. Dose stays stable if weight loss is on track and side effects are minimal.

Patients pregnant, breastfeeding, or with certain cancers or pancreatitis may not be eligible.

Use prescribed Zofran if needed. Severe symptoms after hours require ER care.

No. Providers handle initial visits; follow-ups can be managed by trained coaches with clear escalation pathways.

GEM SLEEP’s GLP-1 Therapy Program pricing varies depending on factors including insurance coverage and frequency of visits required. GEM SLEEP will submit claims to your health plan on your behalf for the initial evaluation and ongoing virtual visits. Patient responsibility applies. There is also a self-pay option for virtual visits.

The GLP-1 Support Program is $79/month and is paid for using your desired cash payment option.

The medication cost is paid directly to the fulfilling pharmacy. Costs vary based on your prescription and dosage.