Semaglutide Weight Loss in Philadelphia
Philadelphia’s gold-standard choice for medical weight management
Discover the city’s premier independent alternative to online weight loss apps. Face-to-face metabolic expertise, advanced body composition tracking, and a real doctor-patient relationship..
Dr. Fortino is a board-certified Internal Medicine physician, Lt. Col. and Flight Surgeon in the New Jersey Air National Guard. His perspective brings together internal medicine, fitness, nutrition and military medicine. His Strong, Not Skinny philosophy puts strength, daily habits and whole-person wellness at the heart of the conversation.
Dr. Fortino, the “Philly Diet Doc”
Voted the 2026 Philly Favorites Gold Winner for Weight Loss Center, Dr. Fortino has spent nearly three decades helping our community achieve lasting wellness. We understand that sustainable health is never a one-size-fits-all solution. That is why specialized options like once-weekly GLP-1 protocols are just one component of a much larger, comprehensive strategy. Dr. Fortino and his clinical team focus on the habits that help you keep your results, including quality sleep, regular exercise and healthy daily routines.
Prescription medical options, including Semaglutide, are subject to a full clinical evaluation and are provided only when medically appropriate.
Physician-Supervised Medical Weight Loss in South Philadelphia.
Since 1999, Philadelphia has Trusted Us to Guide the Way.
Dr. Fortino combines state-of-the-art biological therapies with an old-school clinical approach. During your dedicated 30-minute face-to-face initial evaluation, our team maps your biological data—analyzing your unique metabolism, lifestyle, and health history to determine if once-weekly GLP-1 protocol options are the right choice for your body.
Expect a thorough, unrushed evaluation,
including:
- Comprehensive Medical Consultation: A careful review of your overall well-being.
- Medical History & Medication Review: Making sure your weight loss plan works with your current treatments.
- Vital Signs: Blood pressure, heart rate and other key measurements.
- seca Body Composition Analysis: Measuring body fat, muscle mass and visceral fat.
- Diet & Lifestyle Review: Getting to know your daily habits, routines and eating patterns.
- Personalized Discussion: Addressing your challenges, setting realistic goals and answering your questions.
Whether you’re preparing for a wedding or simply working toward a healthier lifestyle, we create plans focused on sustainable progress, so you can feel your best for the moments that matter and beyond.
Here, you’re not just another patient. You’re a person with a unique story, and we’re here to help you write a healthier next chapter.
A personalized path
to better health.
Your medical history, previous efforts and day-to-day life help shape your care. Nutrition guidance, body composition assessment and physician supervision bring the pieces together.
Modern Food Changed. Your Strategy Needs To.
Break Free from the Cycle of Dieting
Achieving sustainable weight loss can be challenging, but medical advances have made it more attainable than ever. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the brand-name medications Wegovy® and Ozempic®, has changed the way many people approach weight loss.
By quieting “food noise,” these GLP-1 weight loss medications reduce appetite and cravings, making it easier to adopt healthier eating habits and potentially lowering the risk of obesity-related health conditions.
But here’s the real challenge: the American food system is designed for overconsumption. Our diets are dominated by cheap, oversized, highly processed and nutrient-poor foods that fuel obesity and metabolic disorders.
As weight loss science evolves, GLP-1 medications offer a way to fight back, helping people regain control, break the cycle of processed-food dependence and work toward better long-term health.
“This can be a game-changer. These medications allow patients to break free from the cycle of hunger and weight gain. Seeing my patients regain energy, improve their health and feel good about themselves again is incredibly rewarding.” – Robert Fortino, DO
MEET DR. FORTINO
Medical expertise.
Old-school bedside manner.
Semaglutide Medical Evaluation & Qualification
Before any medication is prescribed, you undergo a thorough clinical assessment to determine if Semaglutide is the right fit for your health profile.
When medically appropriate, Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly, subcutaneous injection using a small, fine needle. At Dr. Fortino’s South Broad Street office, your structured treatment plan works like this:
- Start low. To minimize common gastrointestinal side effects (such as mild nausea), you start on a very low, introductory dose.
- Increase gradually. Your dose is raised step by step, usually every few weeks, based on your progress and how well you tolerate it.
- Monthly Progress Checks: Regular follow-up appointments allow your provider to track your weight loss progress, assess vital signs, and adjust your prescription as needed. At follow-up visits, Dr. Fortino and his clinical team review your weight, side effects and SECA body composition, making sure you’re losing fat, not muscle.
- Adjust as you go. We closely manage any symptoms, offering guidance on hydration, nutrition, or supplemental care if you experience discomfort.Your dose and nutrition plan change as your body does, so you keep making progress.
- Planning for your maintenance phase. As you near your target goal, our team provides the nutritional support needed to build high-protein, nutrient-dense eating habits that preserve lean muscle mass while losing fat.
Looking to explore other medical options? Ask Dr. Fortino about Tirzepatide. This once-weekly, prescription-only dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist is available for qualified patients as part of our medically supervised weight management framework.
Weight Loss Care close to home.
Philadelphia
On South Broad Street in South Philadelphia,
minutes from the stadiums.1822 S. Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Weight Loss Services in Philadelphia when medically appropriate
Both are once-weekly injections for medical weight loss. Semaglutide acts on the GLP-1 pathway, while Tirzepatide acts on both GIP and GLP-1. In the SURMOUNT-5 clinical trial, Tirzepatide produced greater average weight loss than Semaglutide; results come from the brand-name medications and vary by person.
The right choice depends on your health history, goals, how you tolerate treatment and cost. At our South Broad Street office, Dr. Fortino and his clinical team help you decide. Read the full comparison in Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide for Weight Loss: What’s the Difference?
Ready for a weight loss strategy that actually fits your lifestyle?
Let’s look at the data together. Map out your long-term goals with Dr. Fortino right here in South Philadelphia, review personalized medical options, and find out if Semaglutide fits your health profile.
How do I get started
Getting started with Semaglutide at Dr. Fortino’s Philadelphia office takes four steps:
- Call or book online. Call 215-336-8000 or complete our online form. A patient care coordinator will answer your questions in a free phone consultation and schedule your first visit.
- Bring your health information. Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, and any recent blood work.
- Meet Dr. Fortino and his clinical team. Your first visit includes a medical exam, a review of your health history and goals, vital signs and a SECA body composition analysis.
- Start your plan, if appropriate. If Semaglutide is medically right for you, you may be able to start at your first visit.
South Philadelphia office: 1822 S Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19145
Get Stronger, Not Just Smaller | Dr. Robert Fortino
Looking for a realistic way to manage your weight near home or work? At our South Broad Street clinic, we focus on protecting your muscle while you burn fat. Discover a tailored, physician-led approach right here in South Philadelphia—available when medically appropriate.
As an alternative to FDA-approved branded products, where appropriate, a provider may prescribe a compounded drug, which is prepared by a state-licensed sterile compounding pharmacy partner. Although compounded drugs are permitted to be prescribed under federal law, they are not FDA-approved and do not undergo safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing review.
Weight Loss with Dr. Fortino
Frequently Asked Semaglutide Questions
How Do I Get Approved for Semaglutide in Philadelphia?
Getting approved starts with a 30-minute medical exam with Dr. Fortino. If Semaglutide is medically appropriate, you may be able to start at your first visit. Compounded Semaglutide is self-pay, so no insurance approval is needed. Contact our office. Call 215-336-8000 or complete our online form. A Patient Care Coordinator will set up a free phone consultation to answer your questions and explain pricing. .
Why do so many people chose Dr. Fortino for GLP-1 treatment in Philadelphia?
Dr. Fortino’s Philadelphia weight loss clinic offers physician-supervised Semaglutide treatment to help you lose weight and build healthy habits that last. See why readers of The Philadelphia Inquirer voted his practice the 2026 Philly Favorites Gold Winner for Weight Loss Center.
Does Dr. Fortino Prescribe Phentermine?
Yes. Dr. Fortino offers Phentermine weight loss treatment at our South Philadelphia office. Phentermine is a prescription appetite suppressant taken by mouth, and it may be an option for patients who prefer a pill to a weekly injection, or as part of a broader weight management plan.
Phentermine isn’t right for everyone and is typically prescribed for short-term use. Dr. Fortino decides whether Phentermine, Semaglutide or another option fits your health history and goals, and monitors your response at follow-up visits.
What if I miss a dose of Semaglutide?
If you miss your weekly semaglutide dose, what to do depends on how much time has passed. Always follow Dr. Fortino’s instructions and your prescription label first.
- ✔ Less than 5 days since your missed dose: Take it as soon as you remember, then go back to your usual weekly schedule.
- ✔ More than 5 days since your missed dose: Skip it and take your next dose on your regular day. Never take two doses to make up for a missed one.
- ✔ Missed 2 weeks or more: Don’t restart on your own. Call our office before your next injection. After a longer break, Dr. Fortino may lower your dose to reduce side effects like nausea.
Tip: Take your injection on the same day each week and set a phone reminder so you stay on track.
Questions about your dose? Call our South Philadelphia office at 215-336-8000.
Looking for an Ozempic weight loss injection in Philadelphia?
Dr. Fortino offers physician-supervised Semaglutide weight loss treatment at his South Philadelphia office, with a personalized plan and regular follow-up to support lasting results.
Start your weight loss journey with Dr. Robert Fortino, a board-certified Philadelphia weight loss doctor with nearly 30 years of medical weight loss experience.
Who shouldn’t take Semaglutide for weight loss?
Some individuals should not take Semaglutide for weight loss due to potential risks.
You may NOT be a candidate if you:
- Have a personal or family history of Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)
- Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Are breastfeeding
- Have a history of severe gastrointestinal disorders
- Have a history of pancreatitis
- Have an allergy to Semaglutide or its ingredients
Not sure if Semaglutide is right for you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Fortino, a board-certified Philadelphia weight loss doctor with nearly 30 years of medical weight loss experience. At your visit, he’ll review your health history and goals and help you decide whether Semaglutide, Tirzepatide or another option is the best fit.
His Philadelphia office is at 1822 S. Broad Street in the heart of South Philly, minutes from Center City and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Schedule Your Consultation or call 215-336-8000.
Can I Take a B12 Shot While on Semaglutide If I’m Tired?
Yes. Vitamin B12 injections can be used safely alongside Semaglutide, and there’s no known interaction between the two. Many patients add a B12 shot to support energy while their appetite and food intake are lower.
Feeling tired on Semaglutide is common, especially in the first weeks or after a dose increase. It’s often caused by:
- Eating fewer calories, especially too little protein
- Not drinking enough water
- Missing nutrients when you eat less overall
- Poor sleep or changes in your routine
B12 is most likely to help if your levels are low. Low B12 is more common if you take metformin or acid-reducing medications, follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, or are over 50.
Because B12 injections are a prescription treatment at our practice, Dr. Fortino reviews your health history and symptoms first and may check your labs. If your tiredness is ongoing or severe, let us know. It may mean your dose, your nutrition or another health issue needs attention.
Learn more about our Super B12 shot and other vitamin and amino acid injections, available at our South Philadelphia and Turnersville, NJ offices.
What Are the Side Effects of Semaglutide?
The most common side effects of Semaglutide are nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting and stomach discomfort. They’re usually mild and often improve as your body adjusts. Dr. Fortino starts at a low dose and increases it gradually to help reduce them. Less common but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems and low blood sugar. Call our office at 215-336-8000 if you have severe or ongoing symptoms.
Does Semaglutide help inflammation?
Research suggests that weight loss and improved blood sugar control with GLP-1 medications like Semaglutide may lower some markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP). Semaglutide is not FDA-approved to treat inflammation.
What’s the Difference Between Wegovy and Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is the medication, and Wegovy is a brand name for it. Wegovy is a once-weekly semaglutide injection, FDA-approved for chronic weight management. Ozempic is also semaglutide, but it’s FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. Compounded semaglutide is prepared by a state-licensed compounding pharmacy. It can be legally prescribed, but it isn’t FDA-approved and isn’t the same as Wegovy.
All forms of semaglutide mimic GLP-1, a hormone that helps reduce appetite and cravings and keeps you full longer. Dr. Fortino can help you decide which option fits your health, goals and budget. Schedule a consultation.
What’s the Difference Between Wegovy and Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide, but they’re FDA-approved for different uses and prescribed at different doses. Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management, at doses up to 2.4 mg weekly. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes, at doses up to 2 mg weekly, though people using it may also lose weight.
In Wegovy’s 68-week STEP 1 clinical trial, adults lost about 15% of their body weight on average, combined with diet and physical activity. Individual results vary.
Ready to start a physician-supervised Semaglutide diet shot program in Philadelphia? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Fortino, a board-certified weight loss doctor with nearly 30 years of experience.
Is Ozempic treatment available in Philadelphia for weight loss?
Dr. Fortino’s medical weight loss clinic in Philly offers Semaglutide (Ozempic), as part of a physician-supervised weight loss program.
While the Ozempic injections in PA are primarily prescribed for diabetes management, they have been shown to promote significant weight loss, making Semaglutide an option for medical weight management.
Still looking for a diet doctor near me who specializes in Semaglutide weight loss treatments?
Dr. Fortino and his well trained nursing team offer GLP-1 weight loss solutions designed for sustainable weight loss and improved overall health.
Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Semaglutide?
Alcohol isn’t strictly off-limits with Semaglutide, but it’s best to limit it. Alcohol can:
- Make side effects worse, including nausea, vomiting and stomach upset
- Raise the risk of low blood sugar, especially if you also take diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas
- Add to dehydration, particularly when you’re eating less
- Raise the risk of pancreatitis with heavy drinking
- Add empty calories that can slow your progress
If you do drink, have small amounts, drink with food and water, and pay attention to how you feel. You may notice alcohol affects you more than it used to.
What Nearby Areas Does Dr. Fortino’s Philadelphia Office Serve?
Dr. Fortino’s medical weight loss office at 1822 S. Broad Street in South Philadelphia sees patients from across the city and the surrounding suburbs, including:
Philadelphia Neighborhoods Served:
- South Philadelphia: East Passyunk, Girard Estate, Packer Park, Point Breeze, Pennsport and Queen Village Center City: Rittenhouse, Washington Square West, Graduate Hospital and Old City, just minutes up Broad Street Northeast Philadelphia: Mayfair, Fox Chase, Bustleton, Somerton and nearby neighborhoods
- Other Philadelphia neighborhoods: Fishtown, Manayunk, Roxborough and West Philadelphia
The office is easy to reach from I-76 and I-95 and is along the Broad Street Line, with convenient access from anywhere in the Greater Philadelphia area. South Jersey patients can also visit our Turnersville, NJ office.
Philadelphia Suburbs Served:
- Main Line & Montgomery County: Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd, Bryn Mawr, Conshohocken, Haverford, King of Prussia, Narberth, Villanova, Wayne, Wynnewood
- Delaware County: Chester, Upper Darby, Lansdowne, Havertown, Springfield, Drexel Hill, Ridley Township, Brookhaven, Swarthmore, Aston, Glen Mills, Concordville, Chadds Ford, Marple Township, Yeadon, Newtown Square
- Chester County: West Chester, Downingtown, Coatesville, Exton, Devon, Paoli, Phoenixville, Kennett Square, Malvern
- Bucks County: Bensalem, Levittown, Doylestown, Warminster, Newtown, Yardley, Langhorne, Bristol
How Much Does Semaglutide Cost in Philadelphia?
At Dr. Fortino’s South Philadelphia office there are no contracts or subscription fees. Visits are self-pay, and you may be able to use FSA or HSA funds. For brand-name Wegovy, your cost depends on your insurance coverage or manufacturer savings programs.
Take the First Step With Dr. Fortino, Voted 2026 Philly Favorites Gold Winner for Weight Loss Center.
