Setmelanotide (Imcivree) for Rare Genetic Obesity in Illinois
Setmelanotide is a daily injection for rare genetic causes of obesity. It is not a treatment for common obesity, and most people with obesity do not qualify.
Important safety information. This page is general education, not medical advice. Only a licensed clinician who knows your history can decide whether a medication is right for you. Do not start, stop or change a prescription without talking to your clinician. If you have severe abdominal pain, trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or thoughts of harming yourself, seek emergency care or call 988.
What It Is
Imcivree activates the MC4R pathway in the brain, which helps regulate hunger and energy balance.
FDA-Approved Uses
Imcivree is approved for chronic weight management in patients (age 2 and older per the current label) with obesity caused by POMC, PCSK1 or LEPR deficiency confirmed by genetic testing, or with Bardet-Biedl syndrome.
Common Side Effects
Skin darkening, injection-site reactions, nausea, headache, diarrhea, stomach pain, vomiting, depression and spontaneous erections.
Serious Warnings
Warnings include sexual adverse reactions, depression and suicidal thoughts, and skin changes. A full-body skin exam is advised before and during treatment.
Is This Relevant to Me?
If you or your clinician suspect a rare genetic cause of obesity, genetic testing can help clarify. Dr. Katie Rosenfeld, DO can tell you whether this medication applies to you, or whether further testing or a specialist referral is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for Imcivree?
Only people with specific, genetically confirmed conditions or Bardet-Biedl syndrome, as described on the FDA label.
Is it for common obesity?
No. It is approved only for the rare genetic conditions listed above.
How TeleSlim Clinic Can Help
A TeleSlim Clinic physician can review your health history and goals by secure video visit and discuss whether prescription weight loss treatment is appropriate for you. Prescribing is always at the clinician's discretion, and not every medication is right for every person. See our Cost & Insurance guides and Illinois locations.
Cost & Insurance guides
TeleSlim Clinic visits are self-pay, and we do not bill insurance for our own services. We do handle prior authorization for your medication, provide a superbill you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement, and send your medication and lab orders to the pharmacy or lab you choose, where your insurance can be used. We do not see patients with Medicare.
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Medications & Decision Guides
Learn about the prescription options and how to choose:
Weight Loss Guides by Health Condition
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Cost, Coverage and Illinois Care
- Weight Loss Medication Cost in Illinois
- Does Insurance Cover Weight Loss Medication?
- Illinois Medicaid and Weight Loss Medication
- TeleSlim Clinic Pricing and Plans
- HSA/FSA and Weight Loss Medication
- Cash Pay vs Insurance
TeleSlim Clinic serves patients across Illinois, including Naperville, Aurora, Joliet, Evanston, Peoria, Springfield, Champaign, Schaumburg, Oak Lawn. See all Illinois locations.
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If you are considering bariatric surgery, learn about surgical options with Dr. Jihad Kudsi at DoctorKudsi.com (https://www.doctorkudsi.com).
Sources: FDA prescribing information for Imcivree (setmelanotide).
This page is general information, not medical advice. Prescribing information changes; confirm current details with your clinician or pharmacist. Last updated: October 7, 2026.