Quel Health Launches Telehealth Platform for Addiction Treatment Using GLP-1 Medications
Santa Fe, N.M.-based startup Quel Health has launched a new telehealth platform designed for addiction treatment, notably incorporating GLP-1 medications. The company asserts this is the first national telehealth service of its kind to utilize GLP-1s for this purpose. The platform offers patients video evaluations, individualized treatment plans, and ongoing care support from affiliated providers. While providers may prescribe GLP-1s off-label when clinically appropriate, it's important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved these medications for substance use indications. Over 50 clinical trials are currently registered on ClinicalTrials.gov to examine the use of GLP-1s for addiction. Quel Health was co-founded by epidemiologist Marlene C. Lira and physician-scientist Steven D. Klein, M.D., Ph.D., aiming to provide an accessible, private, and human-centered approach to what they term 'dopamine health.' The platform is currently available in 41 states and Washington, ... 
