Independent guidance
on GLP-1 medications.
Compare costs, providers,
and how to get started.Independent guidance on GLP-1 medications. Compare costs, providers, and how to get started.
GLP-1 medications help with weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing digestion. There are two main active ingredients: Tirzepatide (Zepbound, Mounjaro) and Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic). Tirzepatide generally leads to more weight loss (about 15–22%) than semaglutide (12–15%). Newer "Triple-G" agonists like Retatrutide are showing even higher results (~30%) in clinical trials.
Brand vs. Compounded: Brand-name GLP-1s cost $1,000+ per month without insurance. Compounded versions use the same active ingredient and typically cost $175–$450 per month, which is why most telehealth providers offer them.
FDA-Approved vs. Off-Label: Zepbound, Wegovy, and Saxenda are FDA-approved for weight loss. Mounjaro and Ozempic are FDA-approved for diabetes but are commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss.
Explore the three main GLP-1 medication types, learn how they work, and find the best providers and savings for each.
Tirzepatide is a dual-action medication that targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors to improve blood sugar control and support significant weight loss. Approved as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes, it's now also used under Zepbound for long-term obesity management.
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Semaglutide is a medication originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. It has gained popularity for its effectiveness in promoting weight loss by reducing hunger and calorie intake, making it a promising option for obesity management.
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Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that was the first in its class approved for weight management. Sold as Saxenda for obesity and Victoza for diabetes, it requires daily injections but offers a proven option for those beginning their weight loss journey.
LEARN MORE →We cite FDA approvals, clinical trials, and verified provider data. No sponsored rankings. All affiliate relationships disclosed.
See Our MethodologyEvery week, our research team analyzes thousands of real user experiences from Reddit and across the web, cross-referenced with clinical data to bring you the most accurate medication comparisons.
Jan 9, 2026
The Trump administration just announced a deal that could dramatically cut what you pay for weight-loss medications—but one major state is heading in the opposite direction.
Read More
Jan 8, 2026
The first GLP-1 weight loss pill just hit pharmacy shelves across America—and it costs less than the injection. But if you're on Medi-Cal, there's some bad news coming.
Read More
Jan 7, 2026
No more needles, no more refrigerators, no more waiting lists. The oral version of Wegovy just landed at 70,000+ pharmacies—but the coverage picture is getting complicated.
Read MoreLive availability data from the FDA Drug Shortage Database, updated automatically.
Ozempic • Wegovy • Rybelsus
No current shortages reported by FDA
Compare ProvidersSaxenda • Victoza
Active shortage reported - check with pharmacy
Compare ProvidersData sourced from FDA Drug Shortage Database • Last updated: February 2026
View Full Shortage TrackerCompare the highest-rated telehealth providers offering GLP-1 medications, ranked by our editorial team.
From $149.99/mo
Patients seeking a comprehensive weight loss program with personalized dosing, unlimited provider access, and clinical accountability - not just medication delivery
From $199/mo
Users seeking multiple GLP-1 format options (injectable, sublingual drops, or tablets), those who prefer needle-free alternatives, budget-conscious customers wanting competitive pricing with transparent subscription options, and people who value responsive customer service
From $179/mo
Budget-conscious users who want affordable GLP-1 access with real human support from named representatives and included nurse care
From $25/mo
Employer-sponsored members with patient temperaments and excellent commercial insurance
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Quick answers to help you navigate weight loss treatment options
Tirzepatide (Zepbound) shows superior weight loss in clinical trials like SURMOUNT-1, with participants achieving up to 22.5% average body weight reduction at the 15 mg dose, compared to semaglutide (Wegovy) at around 15% in similar studies. Head-to-head data from SURMOUNT-5 confirms tirzepatide's edge, with 20.2% vs. 13.7% loss at 72 weeks. Effectiveness varies by individual factors like adherence, comorbidities, and side effects.
Brand-name GLP-1s like Wegovy and Zepbound have list prices exceeding $1,000 monthly (Wegovy ~$1,349, Zepbound ~$1,086), but manufacturers now offer self-pay options at $349–$499 per month depending on dose. Compounded versions from licensed telehealth pharmacies range $149–$399 monthly, though availability has decreased post-shortage resolution. Prices fluctuate; check savings cards or programs like NovoCare for eligibility.
Brand-name GLP-1s (e.g., Zepbound from Eli Lilly, Wegovy from Novo Nordisk) are FDA-approved with rigorous testing for purity, efficacy, and safety. Compounded GLP-1s use identical active ingredients (tirzepatide, semaglutide) from state-licensed pharmacies, often cheaper but with potential variability in quality and no FDA approval. Compounding was allowed during shortages (resolved for semaglutide by 2025), but now faces stricter limits.
Use US telehealth platforms like Ro Body, Calibrate, or Henry Meds: complete an online health questionnaire, undergo a virtual consult with a licensed provider reviewing history/labs, and receive a prescription shipped home if eligible. No in-person visits needed for most; expect follow-ups and state-specific availability. Verify provider licensing and pair with programs offering semaglutide/tirzepatide.
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GLP-1s aren't just about weight loss — they're shaping the future of chronic disease care. We help people understand how these therapies are evolving, what the real-world evidence shows, and what it means for long-term health and quality of life. By combining clinical research with large-scale patient experience data, we aim to bring clarity to a fast-moving space — without hype, and without hidden incentives.
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