WeightWatchers Launches $129 Ozempic Alternative Amid Shortages

In response to rising demand for weight loss medications, WeightWatchers has launched a low-cost alternative to Ozempic—called compounded semaglutide. With a price of $129 per month, this WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative aims to address both cost and availability issues.

While the WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative offers a lower-cost option for those looking for GLP-1 treatments, it’s not without controversy. Here’s what to know about the WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative, how to get it and what the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said in response.

WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative: what you need to know

On Tuesday, October 10, WeightWatchers said it would begin selling compounded semaglutide, a custom weight loss medication made through specialized pharmacies. The company claims the medication has the same active ingredient as FDA-approved Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic and Wegovy. It is also produced by an FDA-registered outsourcing facility, which provides a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for every quality batch of the medication.

Would you try WeightWatchers’ Ozempic alternative?

“We know that compounded semaglutide can be an important option for those seeking weight loss support, given its greater availability and affordability,” said Dr. Jamil Alkhaddo, Medical Director of WeightWatchers, in a press release . “In fact, over 50 percent of current WeightWatchers members have expressed consideration of a compounded GLP-1 for their journey.”

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Compound semaglutide typically works like name-brand GLP-1 injections but with a few differences. Besides a lower cost, they are tailored to fit individual needs and offer various dosage forms. They can be particularly beneficial in times of shortage for commercial drugs.

Addressing insurance and shortage challenges

In creating this new alternative to prescription weight loss medications, WeightWatchers aims to increase access to GLP-1s, citing the significant shortages that have plagued the market. Over the past year, the company conducted over three million stock checks at pharmacies nationwide, finding GLP-1 medications in stock only 4.5 percent of the time.

Currently, federal law allows companies to sell compounded versions of drugs that are on the FDA’s shortages list. As of October 2, 2024, this list includes semaglutide, dulaglutide and liraglutide injections. On Wednesday, the agency determined that the shortage of the tirzepatide injection, used in Eli Lilly’s Zepbound and Mounjaro , was resolved.

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If you’ve been trying to reach a healthier weight, you may be considering semaglutide medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Semaglutide mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), which plays a role in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. But because these medications can be pricy and are intended for long-term use, cost can be a […]

Additionally, insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications remains limited, with less than 40 percent of insurers covering them for weight loss. The company also claims its own WeightWatchers Clinic members who were prescribed a GLP-1 were denied coverage “after three prior authorization requests.”

How to get the WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative

The compounded semaglutide is available exclusively through the WeightWatchers Clinic Membership. Just as with branded weight loss medications, only patients meeting clinical eligibility requirements will be prescribed. Members can receive their compounded semaglutide within one to three business days directly from a licensed pharmacy.

The initial clinical consultation is free. During the first month, members pay a nonrefundable $49 to meet their clinician for a personalized treatment plan and see if they’re eligible for a prescription. For ongoing treatment with the compounded semaglutide, the first month of the 12-month commitment is billed at $129, and each additional month is $189. Importantly, compounded semaglutide is not covered by insurance so customers are required to pay out-of-pocket for the medication.

By comparison, Ozepmic costs nearly $1,000 a monthand Wegovy more than $1,300 a month out-of-pocket.

Compounded semaglutide is not yet FDA-approved

While the launch of the new WeightWatchers Ozempic alternative is a promising development, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

The FDA stated last week that “compounded drugs are not FDA approved.” While the agency recognized the potential benefits in the face of shortages, it also highlighted several concerns, including dosage, salt compounded forms and illegal versions. By being custom-made, “[compounded drugs] can be risky for patients, as unapproved versions do not undergo FDA’s review for safety, effectiveness and quality before they are marketed,” the issue said.

Additionally, the FDA reminded compounders of the legal restrictions in “copying” FDA-approved drugs. To qualify for exemptions from the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic (FD&C) Act, compounded drugs must meet specific conditions, including:

• No copies of commercially available drugs (drugs that aren’t in shortage)
• No identical or nearly identical copies of FDA-approved drugs unless in shortage

Always consult with your healthcare provider first to determine if a compounded drug is appropriate for you.

For more on Ozempic and its alternatives:

These Ozempic Alternatives Help You Lose Weight and Steady Blood Sugar

Can You Drink on Ozempic? Find out How Alcohol Can Affect Weight Loss

What Ozempic Does to Your Brain: It May Reduce the Risk of Dementia 48 percent

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan .