For semaglutide and tirzepatide
Understand the bloodwork done before and during GLP-1 treatment
Plain-language guides to the lab tests commonly ordered around GLP-1 treatment, what each one costs without insurance, and where to order it.
- Sourced from FDA labels, ADA guidelines, and NIH resources
- Prices checked September 23, 2026 on each company's own site
- No health data collected, ever
The tests most often ordered
There is no single required panel. These come up most often at a baseline visit, and the prescribing clinician decides which ones are needed. The kidney urine test is mainly for people with diabetes. The five blood tests, ordered separately, cost $164 to $267 online.
Hemoglobin A1c
Shows average blood sugar over the past two to three months. No fasting needed.
$29 to $50Fasting: not needed
Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP)
Fourteen measurements covering kidney and liver function, glucose, and electrolytes.
$36 to $50.10Fasting: often needed, several hours
Lipid panel
Measures LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Fasting is often required.
$29 to $59.10Fasting: often 9 to 12 hours
TSH (thyroid)
Checks overall thyroid function. It does not screen for the C-cell tumors in the GLP-1 warning.
$39 to $78Fasting: not usually needed
Complete blood count (CBC)
Counts red cells, white cells, and platelets, and measures hemoglobin.
$28 to $44Fasting: not usually needed
Kidney urine test (UACR)
Checks urine for albumin, an early sign of kidney damage. Listed by the ADA for people with diabetes.
$55 to $94Fasting: not needed
Common questions
How this site works
- We explain, you decide with your clinician. We describe what each test measures and why it is commonly ordered. We never tell anyone which tests to get or what results mean.
- We cite and date everything. Clinical statements link to FDA labels, professional guidelines, NIH resources, or peer-reviewed research. Prices come from each company's own website on a stated date.
- We earn money from some links. Links to some lab testing companies are affiliate links. If you order through one, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.