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The gold rush is upon us! With many pop up telehealth companies selling weight loss injections our social media is chocked full of ads and pricing that varies quite a bit. It can be very confusing to know what these medications are much less which one to choose and then there's the cost. Most people find themselves asking is it covered by insurance and if so how much is it? If you can't get it through insurance how much does it cost to cash pay and do you choose name brand or compounded versions? The pharmaceutical industry has witnessed significant advancements in weight loss medications and the popularity of glp/glp-1 injections sky-rocketing with Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and Tirzepatide emerging as notable options. As efficacy and cost are pivotal factors in selecting the right treatment, this article explores the effectiveness, affordability, and body fat loss percentages associated with these medications. By analyzing these aspects, individuals can make informed decisions tailored to their weight loss journey.
Effectiveness Comparison: Liraglutide, Semaglutide (GLP), and Tirzepatide, belonging to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, mimic the action of GLP-1, a hormone regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. By activating GLP-1 receptors, these medications induce satiety, slow gastric emptying, and reduce food intake, leading to weight loss.
Liraglutide (Brand name: Saxenda):
FDA-approved for weight management, Liraglutide demonstrates significant efficacy in reducing body fat.
Clinical trials reveal an average body fat loss of approximately 5-10% when combined with diet and exercise.
Administered via subcutaneous injection, typically taken once daily.
Semaglutide (Brand name: Wegovy):
A newer medication when compared to Liraglutide. Semaglutide showed promising results in clinical trials for weight management.
Studies indicate a higher body fat loss percentage compared to other GLP-1 receptor agonists, averaging around 10-15%.
Administered via subcutaneous injection once weekly.
Tirzepatide (Brand name: Mounjaro or Zepbound):
A popular medication combining GLP-1 receptor agonist with GIP receptor agonism for weight management.
Clinical trials suggest substantial body fat loss, with an average percentage ranging from 10-15%.
Available in compounding pharmacies and branded for weight loss as Zepbound.
Cost Comparison: Besides efficacy, the cost factor significantly influences treatment decisions. Here's a comparative cost analysis of Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and Tirzepatide:
Liraglutide (Saxenda):
Monthly cost ranges from $800 to $1200 without insurance, depending on dosage strength and coverage. If obtained from a compounding pharmacy pricing can range from $200 -$400 a month.
Semaglutide (Wegovy):
If you can get a prescription from your doctor and if you can find a pharmacy that has it in stock cost ranges from $1000 to $1500 without insurance, possibly higher due to its novelty. A compounding pharmacy averages $150-$400 a month for Semaglutide.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro or Zepbound):
Again if you can get approved for Zepbound for weight loss. Meaning you have a BMI over 30 or more or a BMI of 27 if combined with other weight related medications/conditions. If your insurance covers it you can get the Zepbound for $25 with a coupon. If you cash pay it starts at $550 for starter doses. Then you have to find a pharmacy that has it. Compounding pharmacy prices range between $170 - $850 a month depending on where you get it.
Some tele-health providers charge monthly membership fees and medical consulting fees.
See this comprehensive chart for a list of the best legitimate telehealth companies that offer these compounded weight loss injections.
Liraglutide, Semaglutide, and Tirzepatide offer promising solutions for weight loss, with varying efficacy and costs. While Semaglutide and Tirzepatide demonstrate higher body fat loss percentages compared to Liraglutide, the cost factor remains a crucial consideration. By weighing effectiveness, cost, and individual preferences, individuals can choose the most suitable medication for achieving their weight loss goals. Consulting with healthcare providers is essential for personalized guidance and treatment optimization. We have done extensive homework on which providers are the best based on several factors. If you missed it check out our top picks for Telehealth providers offering compounded glp and glp-1 medications here.