Can a naturopathic doctor prescribe semaglutide or tirzepatide?
It depends entirely on your state. Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are licensed in roughly two dozen states plus Washington, DC, and only some of those give NDs prescriptive authority that can reach a prescription drug like semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Where NDs can prescribe
As of the most recent state survey, around 15 licensing jurisdictions grant NDs some prescriptive authority. States such as Arizona, Idaho, Montana, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, and Washington give licensed NDs broad authority over non-controlled prescription drugs. Maine expanded its ND scope in April 2026. Kansas and Maryland had bills pending in 2026. Our state guide lists every state with the date we last verified it. Scope laws change often, so confirm with your state board.
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are not controlled substances, which is why they can fall inside an ND’s formulary in states with broad authority.
Where they cannot
In states that license NDs without prescriptive authority, or that do not license NDs at all, an MD, DO, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant must write the prescription. That does not push your ND out of the picture. Many people keep their ND as the architect of the protocol (nutrition, gut support, muscle preservation, labs) while a telehealth clinician handles the prescription itself.
How telehealth fits
Licensed telehealth providers use clinicians licensed in the state where you are located at the time of the visit. Prefer providers that use a live video visit rather than a questionnaire alone, and that name the pharmacy dispensing your medication.
What to know before any prescription
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are prescription drugs with real risks, including nausea, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and a boxed warning for thyroid C-cell tumors seen in rodents. Compounded versions are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated by FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality. Only a licensed clinician who knows your history can decide whether either is appropriate.
Sources
- prdext3.cga.ct.gov/2023/rpt/pdf/2023-R-0240.pdf
- naturopathic.org/news/725481/Maine-Expands-Authority-of-Naturopathic-Doctors.htm
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