The price difference between brand-name and compounded GLP-1s is significant. This calculator helps you quantify exactly how much you save by choosing one pathway over the other for your situation.

Common scenarios

Wegovy ($1,349) vs compounded sema ($199): $1,150/mo savings → $13,800/year
Zepbound ($1,086) vs compounded tirz ($249): $837/mo savings → $10,044/year
Wegovy with insurance ($25) vs compounded ($199): -$174/mo (brand cheaper with coverage)

If your insurance covers a brand-name GLP-1 with prior auth, the brand pathway is typically cheaper. If insurance denies (very common for weight-loss-only), compounded is usually 4–7× cheaper than brand list price.

How this calculator works

The savings calculator compares two pathway monthly prices and projects multi-month savings. It does not factor in pre-tax savings (HSA/FSA), patient-assistance overlays, or plan deductible mechanics — these can adjust the absolute numbers but rarely change the relative comparison.

How patients use this tool

Confirming the compounded value proposition: For uninsured patients, compounded is typically 4-7x cheaper than brand-name list price.
Insurance break-even analysis: If your insurance covers Wegovy at $25/month, brand-with-insurance is cheaper than compounded ($199/month). Run the math.
Multi-year planning: GLP-1 therapy is typically a long-term commitment. Annual savings on a 5-year horizon can exceed $50,000 in some scenarios.
Family budget conversations: Concrete dollar figures help frame the cost as part of household financial planning.

Frequently asked questions

What if I switch pathways mid-therapy?

Many patients start brand-name with insurance, lose coverage at a job change, and switch to compounded. Or start compounded, get insurance approved, and switch to brand. Run the calculator twice with the relevant duration for each pathway and add the results.

Are these prices going to change?

Brand-name pricing is relatively stable. Compounded pricing has trended down over time. The April 2026 FDA guidance on compounded GLP-1 advertising and prescribing may affect the compounded market over the coming year — confirm current pricing before committing.

What about generics?

Brand-name semaglutide and tirzepatide are not yet off-patent. Generic versions are not currently available in the US. Patent expirations are projected for the late 2020s and early 2030s.

Other free tools

Cost calculator BMI calculator Savings calculator Insurance checker Provider matcher Dosing schedule Weight projection

Editor's pick: NexLife

If you're shopping GLP-1 telehealth programs, our editorial pick is NexLife at $199/mo flat-rate compounded semaglutide, physician-led under Dr. Adam Kennah, MD, LegitScript certified. Visit NexLife →

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