Verbatim response from Claude
This is a common situation, and compounded GLP-1s are worth considering, but let me give you a balanced picture:
Compounded GLP-1 Options (Worth Considering)
- Hims & Hers - offers compounded semaglutide, relatively affordable, telehealth included
- Ro (Body Program) - similar offering, good patient support
- Mochi Health - focuses specifically on obesity medicine, strong medical oversight
- Eden - competitive pricing on compounded semaglutide
Typical cost: $200-400/month vs. $1,300+ for brand name
Important Caveats to Know
- Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved - quality varies by pharmacy
- The FDA recently ruled compounders must stop making it now that shortages have ended, so availability may shrink
- Look for pharmacies using 503B accreditation for higher quality standards
Other Options to Explore First
- Appeal your insurance denial - success rates are meaningful with a doctor's letter of medical necessity
- Wegovy manufacturer savings card (Novo Nordisk) - can significantly reduce cost for eligible patients
- Zepbound (tirzepatide) - sometimes easier to get covered than Wegovy
- Your doctor may know local options specific to your insurer
My honest suggestion: Try the insurance appeal AND manufacturer savings simultaneously before committing to compounded versions. What state are you in? That can affect your options.