Cheaper Alternatives to Wegovy: How to Save on Semaglutide

At $1,000+ per month, brand-name Wegovy is out of reach for many Americans. But effective weight loss treatment doesn't have to be unaffordable. Here are legitimate ways to get semaglutide and other GLP-1 medications at lower costs.

Why Wegovy Is So Expensive

Understanding the cost helps you explore alternatives:

• No generic available: Patent protection keeps prices high
• High demand: Millions want these medications
• Research costs: Drug development is expensive
• Insurance gaps: Many plans don't cover weight loss drugs

Option 1: Compounded Semaglutide

The most popular affordable alternative:

What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

• Same active ingredient as Wegovy/Ozempic
• Made by compounding pharmacies (legal and regulated)
• Available because brand-name is on FDA shortage list
• Typically 60-80% cheaper than brand-name

Typical Pricing

• Compounded semaglutide: $200-500/month (vs $1,350 for Wegovy)
• Price varies by provider and pharmacy
• Often includes medical supervision

How to Get It

• Through telehealth weight loss providers
• Requires prescription from licensed provider
• Provider handles pharmacy relationship

Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?

• Legal: Yes, when from licensed US compounding pharmacies
• Regulated: By state pharmacy boards
• Same molecule: Semaglutide is semaglutide
• Caveats: Not FDA-approved; quality depends on pharmacy

Option 2: Ozempic Instead of Wegovy

The same medication, different indication:

How This Works

• Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide
• Ozempic is approved for diabetes (but causes weight loss)
• Doctors can prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss
• Ozempic max is 2mg; Wegovy goes to 2.4mg

Why Ozempic May Be Cheaper

• Better insurance coverage (diabetes indication)
• More pharmacy coupons and savings programs
• Generally easier to obtain

Limitations

• Lower max dose than Wegovy (2mg vs 2.4mg)
• Your doctor must be willing to prescribe off-label
• Insurance may not cover for weight loss

Option 3: Manufacturer Savings Programs

Novo Nordisk offers programs to reduce costs:

Wegovy Savings Card

• For insured patients: May reduce copay to as low as $0
• Requirements: Commercial insurance that covers Wegovy
• Limits: Max savings per month; expires annually
• How to get: Wegovy.com

Patient Assistance Programs

• For uninsured or underinsured patients
• Income requirements apply
• May provide free or reduced-cost medication
• Apply through Novo Nordisk

Option 4: Different Medications

Other weight loss options cost less (though may be less effective):

Qsymia (Phentermine/Topiramate)

• Cost: $150-250/month
• Effectiveness: ~8-10% body weight loss
• Pros: Much cheaper, daily pill
• Cons: Less effective than GLP-1s, side effects

Contrave (Bupropion/Naltrexone)

• Cost: $100-250/month
• Effectiveness: ~5-8% body weight loss
• Pros: Affordable, helps with cravings
• Cons: Less effective than GLP-1s

Generic Phentermine

• Cost: $30-75/month
• Effectiveness: ~5-10% body weight (short-term)
• Pros: Very affordable
• Cons: Short-term use only, stimulant effects

Option 5: Insurance Navigation

Don't assume coverage isn't possible:

Steps to Take

1. Check your formulary: See if GLP-1s are covered at all
2. Prior authorization: Your doctor can request approval
3. Appeal denials: First denial isn't always final
4. Employer pressure: Ask HR about adding coverage
5. Plan shopping: Some marketplace plans cover these drugs

Documentation That Helps

• BMI 30+ or BMI 27+ with comorbidities
• Failed previous weight loss attempts
• Obesity-related health conditions
• Medical necessity letter from your doctor

Option 6: HSA/FSA

Tax-advantaged accounts can help:

• HSA/FSA eligible: Weight loss medications when prescribed
• Tax savings: Pay with pre-tax dollars
• Effective discount: 20-30% depending on tax bracket

Where to Find Compounded Semaglutide

Many telehealth providers offer compounded options:

• Check our provider reviews for pricing
• Look for providers using accredited pharmacies
• Compare all-in costs (medication + consultation)
• Verify medical oversight is included

Frequently Asked Questions

Is compounded semaglutide as effective as Wegovy?

It should be—it's the same molecule. However, compounded medications aren't subject to the same testing as FDA-approved drugs. Most people report similar results, but individual responses may vary.

Will compounded semaglutide always be available?

It's available because brand-name is on the FDA shortage list. If/when the shortage ends, compounding may no longer be legal. The timeline is uncertain.

Can my regular doctor prescribe compounded semaglutide?

Yes, any licensed provider can prescribe it. However, many use telehealth services that handle both the prescription and pharmacy relationship for convenience.

What about buying Wegovy from Canada or overseas?

Importing prescription drugs is technically illegal for individuals, though enforcement is rare. More importantly, you can't verify quality, storage conditions, or authenticity. We recommend domestic compounded options instead.

Is the generic semaglutide coming soon?

Not for several years. Novo Nordisk's patents extend into the late 2020s/early 2030s. Until then, compounded versions are the main affordable option.

Making Your Decision

Consider these factors:

1. Budget: What can you actually afford monthly?
2. Insurance: Is any coverage possible?
3. Comfort level: How do you feel about compounded medications?
4. Goals: How important is maximum effectiveness?
5. Timeline: How long will you need medication?

Compare Providers

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