Congrats josh_phd_bmore!! Keep going — you're doing incredible. 🎉

Slightly tangential to Thrift store but Admin reminded me — has the insurance landscape changed recently?

I know it is not exactly on-topic but it seems related enough to ask here rather than starting a new thread. Apologies if this has been covered — I did search first.

100%. My provider said the same thing about Thrift store.

Reading this thread on Thrift store hits close to home. Dad of 2 checking in — I started at 293 lbs and felt like I would tried everything.

9 months on tirz and I am a different person. Not just the 68 lbs lost — my energy, my mood, my relationship with food. All transformed.

If you are on the fence about Thrift store — take the leap. It was the best health decision I have ever made. ❤️

As a healthcare provider, I want to add some clinical context to this discussion on Thrift store transformation what worked.

Building on what RickReta_CO said — the evidence base here is well-established. The key publications to reference are from the FLOW program[1].

Key clinical points:

1. Efficacy is dose-dependent and typically requires 4-5 weeks to reach steady state
2. Side effect profile is predictable and usually manageable with standard protocols
3. Monitoring should include baseline labs and follow-up at 3-month intervals
4. Patient education significantly improves outcomes and adherence

Standard disclaimer: this is educational, not individualized medical advice.