Why "Starting at $149" Is Misleading
GLP-1 medications use dose titration — you start low and increase over weeks or months. The starting dose is the cheapest and the one you'll use for the shortest time. Most patients reach maintenance dose within 2–3 months and stay there. That's the price that matters.
When a provider advertises "$149/month," they mean the 0.25 mg starting dose. At maintenance (typically 1.0–2.4 mg semaglutide or 10–15 mg tirzepatide), prices can double or triple.
Brand-Name Pricing (Self-Pay)
| Medication | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (injection) | $349/mo | $349/mo | Flat pricing via Novo Nordisk direct |
| Wegovy (pill) | ~$349/mo | ~$349/mo | Same flat structure |
| Zepbound | $349–399/mo | $349–399/mo | Via LillyDirect |
| Foundayo (orforglipron) | TBD | Expected approval June 2026 | |
| Medicare Bridge | $50/mo | $50/mo | Brand-name only, starts July 2026 |
Compounded Pricing (Telehealth)
This is where dose-dependent pricing gets tricky. Some providers charge flat rates at any dose. Others increase prices as your dose increases. We verified these as of May 2026:
Flat-Rate Providers (Price Stays the Same at Any Dose)
These providers charge the same monthly fee regardless of your titration step. This is the most transparent pricing model and protects you from surprise cost increases.
Embody
Injectable semaglutide. The price you see is the price you pay at every dose level. Custom metabolic report included.
Compare Now →Oak Longevity
Oral and injectable options. No dose escalation pricing — your cost stays the same from 0.25mg to maintenance.
Compare Now →Dose-Escalating Providers (Watch the Fine Print)
Some providers advertise low starting prices but charge more at higher doses. Always ask: "What will I pay at maintenance dose?"
SHED
Comprehensive GLP-1 programs with clinical support and quick onboarding.
Compare Now →How to Actually Compare
When evaluating GLP-1 providers, always ask three questions:
- What's the maintenance dose price? Not the starting dose. The one you'll be on for months or years.
- Are there hidden fees? Some providers charge separate consultation fees, lab fees, or shipping charges.
- What happens when you titrate up? Does the price change at each dose level, or stay flat?
The cheapest starting price often isn't the cheapest treatment. A provider charging $199/month flat at any dose is almost always a better deal than one charging $99 to start but $399 at maintenance.
Wellorithm
Wellorithm offers physician-guided GLP-1 treatment with transparent pricing and ongoing clinical support.
Compare Now →