Lauren Pescarus

Lauren Pescarus is a team member with GLP Winner where she works on marketing, content creation, and operations. She has over 10 years experience in the content creation space, including in the GLP-1 space where she works to stay on top of access news, research updates, and lifestyle tips guided by science.

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211 articles

Showing the 100 most recent.

Walking Gets You Most of the Longevity Benefit, and Tops Out Sooner Than You Think

The longevity benefit of walking plateaus at 6,000 to 8,000 steps after 60. See what the research says and why strength gets mentioned on a GLP-1.

Sep 1, 2026

Welcome to the Age of "Temu Telehealth"

Turnkey platforms let almost anyone launch a GLP-1 clinic, one vendor says daily. See why prices fell, where the risk sits, and the 3 names to ask for

Aug 31, 2026

Blocking GLP-1 for 16 Weeks Caused No Weight Regain for Those with Post-Bariatric Hypoglycemia

Avexitide blocks the GLP-1 receptor and cut severe blood sugar crashes 55%, with no weight change in either group. What that means if you take a GLP-1

Aug 27, 2026

You Don't Owe Anyone an Explanation, With Three Medical Exceptions

Deciding who to tell about your GLP-1? See the 3 people who need to know for safety, plus short scripts for everyone else who asks.

Aug 25, 2026

Is My GLP-1 Actually Working? Answers to the Questions New Users Ask at Week Six

Stalled on a GLP-1? See the real trial averages, what a plateau looks like, and why no US label has a rule for when the medication isn't working.

Aug 23, 2026

People Are Injecting 'Barbie Peptides' to Tan. Here's What the FDA Actually Says About Melanotan

Melanotan II is sold as a tanning shortcut. See the FDA's own safety language, the published case reports, and where the 2026 peptide review stands.

Aug 21, 2026

GLP-1s and Drinking Less: What the Research Actually Shows

Do GLP-1s reduce drinking? A 2026 trial says yes for people with obesity, but two trials missed their goal. What the evidence really shows.

Aug 17, 2026

GLP-1s Before Endoscopy or Colonoscopy: Why the Advice You Get Conflicts

Told to stop your GLP-1 before surgery, or to continue? Five guidance documents disagree. See what each says and what to ask your team.

Aug 15, 2026

The FTC Sued Hims & Hers: What GLP-1 Subscribers Should Check

The FTC sued Hims & Hers over subscription billing and health data. See what it alleges, the company's response, and what to check on your account.

Aug 13, 2026

GLP-1s Are Now Most Obesity Care for Teens: What to Ask

GLP-1s are now 96% of obesity treatment for ages 13 to 25. See which are approved for teens, which are not, and what to ask a pediatrician.

Aug 12, 2026

The New Federal Protein Target and What It Means on a GLP-1

Federal guidance now recommends 1.2 to 1.6 g of protein per kg daily. See what that means in grams and why it matters on a GLP-1.

Aug 9, 2026

2027 Open Enrollment Runs November 1 to January 15.

2027 marketplace enrollment runs November 1 to January 15. December 15 is the cutoff for coverage that starts January 1.

Aug 8, 2026

The FDA Wants to Limit Where Compounded GLP-1s Come From

The FDA proposed limiting large-scale compounded GLP-1s. See what is actually being decided and which pathway stays open.

Aug 7, 2026

Your Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Claim Was Rejected. What Now?

A rejected Medicare GLP-1 Bridge claim is usually a paperwork step, not a denial. See the four reasons and what to ask your pharmacy.

Aug 5, 2026

Split Dosing a GLP-1: Two Shots a Week Instead of One

Some people split a weekly GLP-1 into two injections. See why, what the pharmacology suggests, the dosing risk, and what to ask your prescriber.

Aug 1, 2026

Why Isn't My Pharmacy Licensed in My State? What to Check

Your vial says one company but your provider lists another pharmacy. See why, what an outsourcing facility is, and how to check your state license.

Jul 30, 2026

FDA Panel Backs 6 Peptides for Compounding: What's Next

An FDA panel backed 6 of 7 peptides for the compounding list. See the votes, what each was proposed to treat, and what has to happen next.

Jul 28, 2026

PCOS Is Now PMOS: What the Name Change Means for You

PCOS has been renamed PMOS. See what the new name means, why it changed, and what the research shows about GLP-1s for this common condition.

Jul 27, 2026

GLP-1s and Lower Breast Cancer Risk: What a Study Found

A Penn Medicine study of 110,000+ women links GLP-1 use to about 30% lower breast cancer risk. See what it found, its limits, and what it means.

Jul 26, 2026

Do You Need a Denied Claim First for the GLP-1 Bridge?

Do you need a rejected claim before the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge prior authorization? What CMS actually says, and how the process really works.

Jul 24, 2026

Michigan Medicaid's New GLP-1 Coverage Limits Explained

Michigan Medicaid now limits GLP-1 weight-loss coverage to BMI 40+ with strict rules. See who still qualifies, what changed, and your options.

Jul 23, 2026

The FDA Peptide Panel: Could These 7 Be Compounded?

An FDA panel meets July 23-24 to weigh whether 7 peptides can be compounded. See which peptides, what the FDA recommends, and what it means.

Jul 21, 2026

Who's Using GLP-1s Now? The 2026 Numbers, Explained

GLP-1 use hit a new high in 2026: about 11% of US adults now take one. See who is using them, the brand vs compounded split, and what it means.

Jul 19, 2026

MariTide: The Once-Monthly Weight-Loss Shot in Testing

MariTide is an experimental once-monthly weight-loss shot in Phase 3. See how it works, what trials showed, and how it compares to weekly shots.

Jul 17, 2026

The GLP-1 Price War: What Cheaper Options Mean for You

Brand GLP-1 cash prices are falling fast. See what Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound cost now, why, and whether your own bill will drop.

Jul 15, 2026

Gallbladder Problems on GLP-1s: Why They Happen and the Warning Signs

GLP-1 medicines slightly raise gallstone and gallbladder risk from fast weight loss. See how common it is, how to lower risk, and warning signs.

Jul 13, 2026

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Retatrutide Grey Market: What's Legal, What's Risky?

Retatrutide is not FDA approved. Learn why buying it online or in stores is not legal or safe, and how licensed pharmacy compounding is different.

Jul 10, 2026

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Wegovy Pill Hits 3 Million Scripts: Is $149 a Good Deal?

The Wegovy Pill passed 3 million prescriptions. What $149 self-pay covers, what the 25 mg dose costs, and how the pill compares to the shot.

Jul 8, 2026

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The 2026 FDA Peptide Reclassification: What It Means for You

The FDA moved 12 peptides off its restricted list and reviews 7 in July 2026. See what it could mean for compounding, your GLP-1, and peptide safety.

Jul 6, 2026

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Additives in Compounded GLP-1s: What They Do and Allergy Risks

B12, B6, niacinamide, glycine, benzyl alcohol: see what each GLP-1 additive does, the allergy risks, and how to search providers by additive.

Jul 4, 2026

A man in his 40s kayaks on a still river

GLP-1s in Summer: Heat, Hydration, and Storage Tips

Staying on a GLP-1 this summer? See how to avoid dehydration, store your pen below 86°F, travel safely, and what's true about sun sensitivity.

Jul 3, 2026

woman in her 50s stands at a sunlit community greenhouse table

GLP-1 Coverage Dropped Mid-Year? What You Can Do Next

Insurers and employers are cutting GLP-1 coverage mid-year. See why, how to tell if your plan changed, cash-pay options from $299, and how to appeal.

Jul 1, 2026

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CagriSema and the October 2026 FDA Decision: What to Know

CagriSema is under FDA review with a decision expected in 2026. See what the trials showed and how it compares to Wegovy and Zepbound.

Jun 29, 2026

woman in her 30s riding a bicycle on a riverfront path

PCOS and GLP-1s: What the Research Shows and Its Limits

What the research shows about GLP-1 medications for PCOS, including weight, testosterone, periods, and why it is still an off-label use.

Jun 28, 2026

Medicare GLP-1 Bridge: Your Step-by-Step July 1 Guide

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge starts July 1, 2026. See who qualifies, which drugs cost $50, and how the prior authorization works step by step.

Jun 26, 2026

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GLP-1s and Menopause: Weight, Muscle, and Bone Health

How GLP-1 medications affect weight, muscle, and bone in menopause, plus steps midlife women can take to protect lean mass and bone health.

Jun 24, 2026

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Elecoglipron: The Oral GLP-1 Pill Heading to Phase 3

AstraZeneca's elecoglipron, an experimental once-daily GLP-1 pill, is heading to Phase 3. See what the early results show and what is still unproven.

Jun 22, 2026

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The Antitrust Lawsuit Over Compounded GLP-1 Access

A pharmacy is suing Lilly and Novo over compounded GLP-1 access. See what the lawsuit claims, what the companies say, and what it means for you.

Jun 20, 2026

The Oral GLP-1 Race: Why Pills Could Change Who Gets Treated

Two GLP-1 pills are now FDA approved, with more coming. See how oral options could change access, what they cost, and how they compare to shots.

Jun 19, 2026

Why You Start Moving Less on a GLP-1 and How to Fix It

A 2026 study found people take fewer steps after starting a GLP-1. Learn why it happens and easy ways to stay active and protect muscle.

Jun 17, 2026

Honey, Stevia, and Sugar: Which Is Healthier?

Honey, agave, stevia, and monk fruit get marketed as better than sugar. See which are natural sugars and what the research really shows.

Jun 15, 2026

GLP-1 Step Therapy: Real Rule or Extra Step?

Some insurers make you try other drugs before covering a GLP-1. Learn how step therapy works, when it is required, and how to ask for an exception.

Jun 15, 2026

Retatrutide Before FDA Approval: What You Should Know

Retatrutide is not FDA approved, but some clinics sell it anyway. See what the science shows and why approval status matters for you.

Jun 14, 2026

Foundayo and Thyroid Tumor Risk: What to Know

Foundayo has an FDA boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors. See what it means, what the research shows, and what it means for you.

Jun 10, 2026

Can GLP-1 Medications Help People With Cancer? What a New Study Shows

A study found about 60% lower mortality among women with breast cancer who used GLP-1 medications. What the research shows, and what it doesn't prove.

Jun 8, 2026

Are Peptides Safe? A Plain-Language Guide to What's Legitimate and What's Risky

Some peptides are FDA-approved medicines and some "research" peptides are risky. A plain-language guide to telling safe sources from unsafe ones.

Jun 6, 2026

How LillyDirect Works, and Where the "Deals" Can Cost You

LillyDirect offers self-pay prices and easy access, but a Senate report raises questions about steering + cost. See how it works and what to watch.

Jun 4, 2026

How to Order at Restaurants on a GLP-1: A Practical Guide

How to order at restaurants on Ozempic, Wegovy, or Zepbound. What to eat, what triggers nausea, portion tactics, alcohol, and the social side.

May 31, 2026

Why "Just Eat Less" Rarely Works: The Biology Behind the Shame Cycle

Why is it so hard to eat less? Hunger hormones, brain reward, and why a theory explain what's actually happening, and why willpower is not the issue.

May 30, 2026

Medicaid GLP-1 Coverage Through 2031: What the BALANCE Model Means for You

Medicaid coverage for GLP-1s expands through December 2031 under the BALANCE Model. Eligibility, pricing, and what to ask your state Medicaid agency.

May 29, 2026

AB 1990 Just Cleared Appropriations: Where the California GLP-1 Bill Stands Now

California AB 1990 cleared Appropriations 13-0 and heads to the Assembly floor. Latest amendments, opposition, and what it means for GLP-1 patients.

May 27, 2026

Why Is Lilly Suing the FDA Over Retatrutide? The Biologic Lawsuit and OFA Amicus Brief, Explained

Lilly wants retatrutide classified as a biologic, but the FDA is not agreeing, now there is a lawsuit. What the lawsuit and OFA brief actually say.

May 25, 2026

Can I Stay on a GLP-1 After Reaching My Goal Weight?

Lost weight on a GLP-1 and worried a new provider won’t approve? Here is what the FDA labels, the research, and Medicare’s $50 program actually say.

May 23, 2026

Why Your GLP-1 Might Feel Like It’s Not Working: What the Research Says

GLP-1 patients say their medication can feels weaker. Research points to body adaptation, sleep, stress, and hormonal shifts as the usual culprits.

May 22, 2026

Ozempic Personality: What the Research Actually Says About GLP-1s and Your Mood

Worried about “Ozempic personality”? The FDA’s 2026 review of 107,910 patients tells a more reassuring story than the headlines do.

May 20, 2026

The Hidden Cost of Taking a Break from Your GLP-1 Medication

A new mouse study suggests pausing a GLP-1 makes restarts less effective. Here is how strong the evidence is and what to think about before a break.

May 18, 2026

What Canada's Generic Ozempic Approval Tells Us About the Future of GLP-1 Pricing

Canada is approving generic Ozempic, India already has. Here is what it means for US prices, when patents expire, and what you can actually do today.

May 17, 2026

Are GLP-1 Medications Changing What Foods People Crave?

GLP-1 users are buying more hot sauce & ketchup, and the food industry is moving fast. Here is what the science says about taste changes on GLP-1s.

May 15, 2026

How to Tell If Your Peptide Provider Is Legitimate

How to vet a peptide provider in 2026: licensed pharmacy, named clinician, honest labeling, plus free tools and red flags to know before you buy.

May 13, 2026

What Medicare's $50 GLP-1 Plan Actually Means for You

Starting July 1, 2026, Medicare Part D patients could get GLP-1s for $50/month. Here's who qualifies, what's covered, and what's still in motion.

May 11, 2026

Grey-Market Peptide Quality: What Lab Testing Found

Lab testing finds many grey-market peptides miss their purity claims, with heavy metals and bacterial contamination in samples. Here is what to know.

May 9, 2026

Compounded GLP-1 Pharmacy Additive Search: What to Know

Search compounded GLP-1 pharmacy additives by state. Filter 503A or 503B, compare ingredients, and find a telehealth that works with your pharmacy.

May 8, 2026

Why GLP-1 Costs Tend to Go Up After You Start Taking It

Wegovy and Zepbound coverage is dropping for millions. Learn why GLP-1 prices often jump after you start, and what to do when your costs change.

May 6, 2026

What Food Noise Actually Is and Why GLP-1s Reveal It

Food noise is the constant background chatter about food some people live with. Here is what it is, what science shows, and why GLP-1s revealed it.

May 4, 2026

5 Things to Know Before Your First GLP-1 Conversation

Wondering about GLP-1s? Here are five basics on candidacy, dosing, food noise, and compounded options to know before your first appointment.

May 2, 2026

What the Zealthy Lawsuit Means for Telehealth Patients

The DOJ is suing Zealthy and seeking to freeze its assets. See what is alleged, what is not yet proven, and what to ask any telehealth provider.

May 1, 2026

Can You Take Peptides and GLP-1 Medications Together?

Wondering about adding peptides to your GLP-1? Here is what is safe, what is not yet legal, and what your doctor needs to know.

Apr 29, 2026

The Medvi Story and What It Says About Telehealth Shopping

A plain-language look at the Medvi story, what the FDA warning and lawsuits are actually about, and the questions to ask any telehealth provider.

Apr 27, 2026

What the Recent Peptide Reclassification Means for You

The FDA removed 12 peptides from a restricted category in April 2026. What that means for access, safety, and your GLP-1 care.

Apr 27, 2026

The Hidden GLP-1 Side Effects People Are Talking About

Mood, libido, taste, sleep, hair, and body changes on GLP-1 medications are real, common, and often missed. What the newest research shows.

Apr 26, 2026

California AB-1990 and Access to Compounded GLP-1s

California AB-1990 would raise ingredient, record-keeping, and advertising rules for compounded GLP-1 medications. What it could mean for you.

Apr 22, 2026

Do GLP-1 Medications Cause Hair Loss, Cancer, or Fatigue?

A plain-language look at what peer-reviewed studies actually show about hair loss, thyroid and pancreatic cancer, and fatigue on GLP-1 medications.

Apr 20, 2026

GLP-1 Weight Loss and Divorce: What's the Connection?

A plain-language look at what the research shows about GLP-1 weight loss, divorce rates, and how relationships really change on the medication.

Apr 18, 2026

What Are Peptides? How They Differ from GLP-1 Medications

What are peptides and how do they differ from GLP-1 medications? A plain-language guide to BPC-157, CJC-1295, ipamorelin, and more.

Apr 17, 2026

GLP-1 Genetics: Why Do They Work Better for Some People

New 2026 genetics research explains why GLP-1s work better for some people than others, plus what to do if your response feels slower than expected.

Apr 16, 2026

What Is SNAC? A Key Ingredient in Oral GLP-1 Pills

A calm, plain-language explainer on SNAC, the absorption helper in oral semaglutide pills, and what the new 2026 study actually found.

Apr 14, 2026

Foundayo vs. the Wegovy Pill: GLP-1 Pill Comparison

A plain-language side-by-side of Foundayo and the Wegovy pill. Dosing, weight loss, side effects, and cost compared for 2026.

Apr 13, 2026

What Really Makes a Drug a GLP-1? GLP-1s vs. Peptides

A plain-language refresh on the difference between a GLP-1 medication and a peptide, updated for 2026 and the arrival of non-peptide GLP-1 pills.

Apr 11, 2026

Are Compounded GLP-1s Going Away? FDA Statement Explained

FDA statements, tariffs, and lawsuits have compounded GLP-1 patients' worries. Here is what is changing, what is not, and what it means for your price

Apr 10, 2026

GLP-1 Dose vs. Units: What Those Syringe Numbers Really Mean

Your GLP-1 dose is in mg. Syringes shows units. Learn why they differ, how concentration changes your count, and what to do when your vial changes.

Apr 10, 2026

FDA Approves Foundayo: The New GLP-1 Pill Explained

The FDA approved Foundayo (orforglipron) on April 1, 2026. Here is what the new once-daily GLP-1 pill actually changes for patients.

Apr 8, 2026

FDA Approves Wegovy HD: What the New Higher-Dose GLP-1 Injection Means for Weight Loss

Wegovy HD (7.2 mg) is now FDA-approved with 20.7% average weight loss. Learn about results, effects, availability, and how it compares to Zepbound.

Apr 6, 2026

Why GLP-1 Ads Are Changing: What the FDA's New Marketing Rules Mean for You

FDA warned 30 telehealth companies over GLP-1 marketing claims. Learn what changed, why compounding is not going away, and what to look for.

Apr 4, 2026

GLP-1 Medications and Body Image: How to Feel Good About a Decision That Is Yours

64% of Americans say GLP-1 drugs hurt body positivity. Here's what research says about body image, Ozempic face, and making health decisions.

Apr 3, 2026

GLP-1 Medications and Mental Health: What New Research Shows About Depression, Anxiety, and Mood

New research links semaglutide to 42% fewer psychiatric hospitalizations. See what studies show about GLP-1 medications, depression, and anxiety.

Apr 1, 2026

Eli Lilly Says B12 in Compounded GLP-1s Creates an Impurity. Here's What We Actually Know.

Eli Lilly claims B12 in compounded GLP-1s creates an impurity. We break down what the data shows, what's missing, and whether you should worry.

Mar 30, 2026

Medicare Will Cover GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs Starting July 2026: What You Need to Know

Medicare covers Wegovy and Zepbound for $50/month starting July 2026. Learn who qualifies, what it costs, and how to prepare for the GLP-1 Bridge.

Mar 30, 2026

7 Bodyweight Exercises You Can Do at Home to Protect Muscle on a GLP-1

Protect your muscle mass on a GLP-1 medication with these 7 beginner bodyweight exercises you can do at home in 10 minutes.

Mar 28, 2026

Should You Take a GLP-1 for Longevity? What Microdosing Really Means and What the Science Says

GLP-1 microdosing for longevity is trending. We break down the science, what microdosing really means, and whether the evidence supports it.

Mar 27, 2026

8 Small Steps That Help GLP-1 Users Build Healthier Habits, According to Research

A Stanford study of 5,000+ GLP-1 users found that small behavior changes make a real difference. Here are the 8 microsteps and how to start.

Mar 25, 2026

Can GLP-1 Medications Cause Scurvy? What the Research Says About Nutrition and Weight Loss Drugs

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy can reduce appetite and lead to nutritional gaps. Here is what the research says and how to stay protected.

Mar 23, 2026

FDA Sends Warning Letter to Novo Nordisk Over Unreported GLP-1 Deaths and Side Effects

The FDA warned Novo Nordisk for not reporting deaths and serious side effects tied to its GLP-1 medications. Here is what happened.

Mar 21, 2026

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"Natural GLP-1" and Peptide Supplements: What the Science Actually Says

Products marketed as "natural GLP-1s" and peptide supplements are everywhere. Here is what the science says and how to protect yourself.

Mar 20, 2026

Could GLP-1 Medications Help Treat Addiction?

New research links GLP-1 medications to reduced addiction risk. See what the WashU and JAMA studies found and what clinical trials are underway.

Mar 18, 2026

What Happens When You Stop Taking a GLP-1?

Research shows weight regain after stopping Ozempic or Wegovy. See how fast it happens, what else reverses, and what you can do now to keep results.

Mar 16, 2026

What to Eat in a Day on a GLP-1 (With Sample Meals)

See what a full day of eating looks like on a GLP-1 with protein, fiber, and carb targets. Sample meals, macros, and tips for Ozempic users.

Mar 14, 2026

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The Novo Nordisk and Hims Deal: What It Means for GLP-1 Pricing and Access

Novo Nordisk and Hims struck a deal on Ozempic and Wegovy pricing. See what it means for GLP-1 costs, compounded access, and your options.

Mar 13, 2026

If Ozempic Costs $3 to Make, Why Does It Cost $900?

GLP-1 shots cost under $5 to make but sell for $900+. See what drives the price, whether it's justified, and how pricing is changing in 2026.

Mar 11, 2026

What Are the Most Common GLP-1 Side Effects and When Do They Happen?

Worried about GLP-1 side effects? Learn what’s common, how often it happens, and when symptoms usually start.

Mar 9, 2026

Will India’s GLP-1 Patent Expiry Impact the GLP-1 Market in the US?

India’s GLP-1 patent expiry may lower prices there first. Learn what it could mean for US access and affordability.

Mar 7, 2026