Frequently Asked Questions

We keep communications secure and simple.

• Email: Encrypted and HIPAA-compliant via Paubox
• Text: Encrypted and HIPAA-compliant via iPlum
• Video visits: Encrypted and HIPAA-compliant via Doxy.me or Doximity

Your data is never sold or shared without your written consent.

Yes. Everything you share is confidential. The only exceptions, required by law, are:

• Threats of self-harm or harm to others
• Evidence of child or elder abuse or neglect

No. GLP-1 medications are often prescribed off-label for other conditions such as PCOS, fatty liver, sleep apnea, or alcohol use. We also support patients pursuing aesthetic or preventive goals.

They slow digestion, reduce appetite, and rebalance hunger hormones. They also improve inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health.

Tirzepatide acts on two receptors (GLP-1 + GIP), while semaglutide acts on one (GLP-1). That dual action makes tirzepatide more potent, often with fewer side effects.

No. GLP-1s don’t cause tolerance, withdrawal, or compulsive use. In fact, studies show they may reduce cravings for alcohol, nicotine, and opioids.

Yes—but it takes a plan. Only ~20% of people maintain significant weight loss long-term without medication. We taper gradually and may add oral medications like metformin, bupropion, or topiramate for maintenance.

Not necessarily to lose weight—these medications naturally reduce appetite. But lifestyle change is key for keeping the weight off. Aim for 1 lb/week of fat loss and add resistance training.

• Mild nausea after dosing (usually transient)
• Constipation (most common—treat early!)
• Occasional reflux if eating large/fatty meals late

Eat ≥ 30 g fiber daily, hydrate well, and use osmotic laxatives (MiraLAX / PEG-3350) if needed. Add Senna or bisacodyl only if you go > 3 days without a bowel movement.

Rule of thumb: if you haven’t pooped in 7 days, call us—or go to the ER.

Protein prevents hair loss, muscle wasting, and “Ozempic face.” Aim for 1 gram of protein per pound of goal body weight and consider collagen + hyaluronic acid supplements for skin and joints.

Most people start with 6–8 sessions over 4–6 weeks (the induction phase). Maintenance sessions follow every few weeks or months depending on response.

Unlike SSRIs, which take 6–8 weeks, ketamine can lift mood within hours to days.

Yes. Ketamine has been used safely for decades. We monitor your vitals throughout each session in a calming, supportive environment.

Usually yes. We’ll review your meds and coordinate care with your prescriber if needed.

Ketamine isn’t a permanent cure, but it can provide rapid relief and open a “neuroplasticity window” that makes therapy and healthy habits stick. Some need periodic boosters; others stay well for months.

For 72 hours after treatment, your brain is more adaptable.

• Do: journal, connect with people, go outside, create something
• Avoid: alcohol, heavy cannabis use, isolation, or skipping sleep
• Goal: reinforce positive habits while your brain’s wiring is flexible

Yes. You cannot drive until the next day after IV ketamine or Spravato®.

KASI is a cutting-edge, evidence-based way to transition off opioids and onto buprenorphine without triggering precipitated withdrawal.

Ketamine reduces pain, anxiety, and distress during buprenorphine initiation. It helps reset reward circuits and decreases cravings. Ketamine also resensitizes opioid receptors that have become desensitized by fentanyl use.

Yes—when done under medical supervision. Dosing is carefully titrated and patients are closely monitored.

Anyone with opioid use disorder who has struggled with prior buprenorphine inductions or fears precipitated withdrawal.

Yes. We provide structured interviews, validated screening tools, and functional assessments before starting treatment.

Yes, when clinically appropriate and safe. We also offer non-stimulant and adjunctive treatments that address focus, mood, and sleep.

Absolutely. ADHD often overlaps with mood and anxiety disorders. We tailor treatment to rebalance executive, salience, and default-mode brain networks.

• Opioids (fentanyl, heroin, oxycodone)
• Alcohol
• Nicotine / vaping
• Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine)
• Behavioral addictions (gambling, overeating, etc.)

Yes. We use both traditional and micro-induction (“Bernese”) methods and offer long-acting options like Brixadi® or Sublocade® when appropriate.

We combine medical therapy with neuroscience-based recovery, targeting brain circuits of craving, reward, and control. Treatments may include ketamine, GLP-1s, or bupropion to restore balance and reduce relapse risk.

Yes. Most follow-ups can be virtual as long as you are physically in New York State during the visit.

For most weight-loss, labs are optional but encouraged—labs can make it easier for your insurance to cover your treatment, and they help us track your success in improving your health. For hormone therapy, labs are required. For mental health, they may sometimes be required. We usually send our patients to Quest Diagnostics, but we can sometimes arrange in-office phlebotomy at Happy Healthy New York’s Ridgewood, Queens headquarters.

Yes—any pharmacy, including Capsule, Amazon, or your neighborhood pharmacy.

Yes. We currently accept NYSHIP, Cigna, Anthem BCBS, MVP, Medicare, and Medicaid. Spravato® and some GLP-1s may require prior authorization—we handle that for you. Compounded medications are not covered by insurance.

Yes. HSA/FSA, debit, credit, cash, and check are all accepted.

No. The provision of healthcare is not a service area where refunds take place.

On rare occasions, housecalls can be arranged in Brooklyn, Western Queens, and Manhattan.

Text 833-HAPPY-NY or email info@happyhealthyny.com anytime. Texts and emails inquiries will be answered during business hours.

BMI = (weight in lbs ÷ [height in inches]²) × 703

Men: 50 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches – 60)
Women: 45.5 kg + 2.3 kg × (height in inches – 60)

Examples include type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, GERD, arthritis, fatty liver, infertility, depression, and many others.