Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist — a weekly injection that works on two hormonal pathways simultaneously to reduce appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote fat loss. It was originally developed for type 2 diabetes and has shown significant weight loss outcomes in large-scale clinical trials. At Rho, tirzepatide is prescribed as part of a full medical protocol, not in isolation.

Tirzepatide has an established safety profile based on extensive clinical data. Like all medications, it has potential side effects — most commonly nausea, constipation, and reduced appetite during dose escalation. These typically resolve within two to three weeks. Serious side effects are rare and are screened for during your consultation. All Rho patients are medically cleared before starting and monitored throughout their programme.

Tirzepatide is not appropriate for patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2), those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning pregnancy, patients with a history of severe pancreatitis or thyroid cancer, or those with a known allergy to tirzepatide. Your doctor will conduct a full screening at your consultation.

Most patients notice reduced appetite within the first one to two weeks. Meaningful weight loss typically begins in weeks two to four and builds progressively as the dose is escalated. Clinical trials show an average of 15–20% body weight reduction over 72 weeks. Individual results vary based on adherence, diet, exercise, and metabolic factors — which is precisely why we monitor your progress monthly.

All three programmes include tirzepatide, full doctor oversight, and WhatsApp access. Foundation includes monthly check-ins and protocol reviews. Elevate adds weekly check-ins, monthly inBody body composition scans, and full Nutrition House dietitian support. Longevity includes everything in Elevate plus custom peptide stacks, quarterly lab reviews, and advanced metabolic optimisation. We recommend booking a consultation to determine the right fit for your goals.

Yes. There is no long-term lock-in. Consultations are cancelled with 24 hours' notice. Programme subscriptions require one month's notice to cancel. Please note that the first month of any programme is non-refundable, as this covers your prescription, compounding, and initial protocol setup costs.

No. Rho is a physical medical practice in Sandton Gate, Johannesburg. Your consultations are in-person with an HPCSA-registered doctor. WhatsApp support between appointments is a supplement to in-person care — not a replacement for it. We believe that real medical weight loss requires a real doctor who has actually examined you.

Book your initial consultation through our Bookem booking link. Payment of R1,677 is processed securely via PayFast at the time of booking. Programme fees are billed monthly via PayFast recurring billing after your consultation. We do not accept medical aid for this service at this time.