The Two Paths to GLP-1 Access:
Appeal Insurance or Go Direct
Don't let cost stand in your way. Use our AI to fight insurance denials, or compare the most affordable, FDA-regulated telehealth providers.
The Two Paths to Weight Loss
Most patients face a choice: fight for insurance coverage or choose an affordable cash-pay alternative.
Path A: Brand Name
(Wegovy®, Zepbound®)
*If covered by insurance
- Time to Start: 2-4 Months (Prior Auth + Appeals)
- Availability: Frequent National Shortages
- Hurdles: Strict BMI rules, Step Therapy required
Path B: Compounded
(Semaglutide / Tirzepatide)
No Insurance Needed
- Time to Start: 3-5 Days
- Availability: In Stock & Ready to Ship
- Hurdles: Simple Medical Intake
How It Works
Get the right medication—at the right price—in 3 steps.
Choose Your Route
Decide between fighting for insurance coverage (if you have it) or choosing the affordable, stress-free compounded route.
Take Action
Use our Appeal Generator to fight a denial, or use our Provider Comparison Tool to find the best deal.
Start Treatment
Once approved, get your brand-name meds at a licensed pharmacy or have compounded medication shipped to your door.
Do I Qualify for GLP-1 Medication?
Most adults struggling with weight loss are eligible. Our providers generally look for one of the following criteria:
100% Legit Sources
We only list providers that partner with FDA-regulated 503A and 503B compounding pharmacies.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. We break down the monthly costs, membership fees, and medication prices clearly.
Fast Shipping
Get your medication delivered to your door in cold-packed shipping within 2-5 business days.
Real Patient Success
See what others are saying about these providers.
"I've gotten compounded online thru ReflexMD. Will receive my fifth vial tomorrow. So far down 26 lbs. it's been a lifesaver for me... mailed the package straight from Strive Pharmacy."
"I loved how easy the onboarding was. The representative was extremely friendly and thorough. He made me feel comfortable through the whole process. I am 3 weeks in and have already been seeing some weight loss."
"I have tried many appetite control methods in the past and these Gentle GLP-1 patches are very effective in appetite suppression without any side effects. Thank you, so glad I read the article that led me here."
Have questions about GLP-1s?
Our AI assistant is trained on the latest research about Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Chat with it now to get instant answers about side effects, dosing, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your comprehensive guide to GLP-1 medications and telehealth.
What is Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. It mimics a natural hormone in your body that targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. Originally developed for Type 2 diabetes, it has proven highly effective for chronic weight management.
What is Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)?
Tirzepatide is a dual-acting medication that targets both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. By targeting two metabolic pathways instead of one, many clinical studies suggest it may offer even more significant weight loss results than Semaglutide.
How do these medications work?
They work through three primary mechanisms:
- Appetite Suppression: They reduce "food noise"—the constant mental chatter and cravings for food.
- Slowed Gastric Emptying: They slow down how quickly your stomach empties, making you feel fuller for longer.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: They help the body release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high.
What is "Compounded" Semaglutide?
Compounding is the process of creating a custom medication by a licensed pharmacist. When a brand-name drug (like Ozempic) is on the FDA’s official shortage list, licensed compounding pharmacies are legally permitted to produce "essentially copies" of that drug to ensure patient access.
Is it safe?
We only partner with telehealth platforms that utilize FDA-licensed 503A or 503B compounding pharmacies.
- 503A pharmacies are traditional pharmacies that fill individual prescriptions.
- 503B facilities are outsourcing facilities that meet higher manufacturing standards similar to pharmaceutical companies.
Why is the price lower?
Brand-name manufacturers spend billions on marketing and R&D. Compounding pharmacies do not have these overhead costs. Furthermore, because these pharmacies are filling a gap during a shortage, they can provide the medication at a fraction of the list price.
How do I get a prescription?
The process is entirely digital:
- Online Assessment: Fill out a medical history form.
- Medical Review: A US-licensed provider reviews your data.
- Consultation: Brief video or phone call (if required by state).
- Shipping: Meds are shipped directly to your door.
Do I need to see a doctor in person?
No. Our featured partners use telehealth protocols that allow for remote prescribing, provided you meet the medical criteria.
How much does it cost?
Prices vary by provider, but most patients pay between $250 and $450 per month. This usually includes the consultation, medication, and shipping.
Does insurance cover it?
Most insurance companies do not cover compounded medications. However, the cash price is often comparable to or lower than the brand-name copay for many plans.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach pain or bloating
- Fatigue
Who should NOT take it?
Avoid if you have:
- Personal/family history of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- History of pancreatitis
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
How long to see results?
Some feel effects immediately, but significant weight loss usually begins after 2-3 months as you reach therapeutic doses.
Do I still need to diet?
Yes. These meds are a tool to help you stick to a calorie deficit by reducing hunger. They are not a magic wand that works without lifestyle changes.
What if I get denied?
Don't give up! Use our free Appeal Letter Generator to fight the denial. Up to 70% of initial denials are overturned.
What if the appeal fails?
Compounded GLP-1s are a safe, affordable backup plan. Compare providers here.