The Real Cost of Semaglutide Without Insurance: What You Need to Know

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Semaglutide is a drug that could help with weight loss and diabetes control. The potential benefits of medications like semaglutide have been observed in clinical trials conducted under specific, controlled conditions. These benefits are not guaranteed for all individuals, as responses to medications can vary widely based on factors such as individual health conditions, concurrent medications, and adherence to prescribed dosages. Additionally, the outcomes seen in clinical trials may not always translate to real-world scenarios. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits of any medication and to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific situation.

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For many people who don't have insurance, the actual price of semaglutide can be expensive. When thinking about using this treatment to augment health, it's important to understand how much it might cost. There are several elements that influence the price of semaglutide for those without insurance, including the typical retail cost and how prices differ between online and brick-and-mortar pharmacies. People can look at ways to budget and explore the different choices for people who can't afford semaglutide to compare the possible advantages to the expense. When considering semaglutide as a potential medical treatment, people should be wary of the dangers of buying from unapproved sellers.

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Key Takeaways

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• Clinical trials have observed weight loss in participants using semaglutide under medical supervision, with some reporting an average weight loss of 14.9% after 68 weeks at a 2.4 mg dose. Individual results may vary, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to understand if this treatment is suitable for your needs ^[1].

• Semaglutide works by mimicking GLP-1, a hormone that suppresses appetite, enhances insulin secretion, and slows digestion ^[2].

• The medication has demonstrated significant blood glucose control compared to other diabetes treatments in clinical trials ^[2].

• Without insurance, the retail cost of semaglutide can exceed $1,000 per dose, making it unaffordable for many ^[3].

• Some employers cover GLP-1 medications for obesity, and coverage may expand as new indications are approved ^[4].

• Medicare recently announced it will allow coverage of Wegovy^® (semaglutide) for beneficiaries at high risk of cardiovascular events, but implementation may be slow ^[4].

• While some pharmacies offer compounded versions of semaglutide, it is important to note that these are not FDA-approved, and their safety and efficacy may differ from the original brand-name medications. Patients should consult with their healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits ^[3].

• It's important to complete the prescribed semaglutide regimen, as premature termination can result in weight regain ^[2].

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What Factors Affect The Cost Of Semaglutide Without Insurance?

Several factors impact the cost of semaglutide for people without insurance. Understanding these factors is important if this medicine is needed to lose weight or control diabetes.

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Dosage and Frequency

The amount and how often semaglutide is taken will affect the monthly cost. Higher doses or taking it more often leads to higher expenses. For weight loss, doctors might often prescribe higher doses of semaglutide. This can make the monthly costs range from $1,200 to $1,500 if paying without insurance coverage [5]. It's essential to understand semaglutide dosages and guidelines. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may experience while using semaglutide.

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Brand vs. Generic Options

The decision to choose brand-name products like Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® or compounded semaglutide impacts costs. Brand-name drugs usually cost more, with Ozempic's^® monthly supply priced at about $935 if people don't have insurance [6]. Currently, there aren’t any FDA-approved generic versions of semaglutide [7].

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Pharmacy Choice

Semaglutide prices can vary between pharmacies. Looking around or using online pharmacy services might lead to cost savings. For instance, websites like GoodRx find coupons from different retailers, which could help patients cut down on Ozempic^® expenses [6].

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Insurance Coverage and Assistance Programs

Insurance coverage can significantly cut the costs of what patients pay for treatment. Some people with insurance might spend $25 a month [8]. If people don't have insurance, programs like Novo Nordisk's Patient Assistance Program can help. They might give patients the medicine for free or at a low cost if they qualify [7].

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Average Retail Price Of Semaglutide Without Insurance

People can get semaglutide online through telehealth services, making it possible for you to get a prescription for semaglutide online from a healthcare provider. Getting semaglutide from sources like Eden ensures accessibility and affordable options as determined by a healthcare professional.

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The average retail price of semaglutide significantly impacts consumers without insurance, with brand-name products being more costly. A 30-day supply of Ozempic^® or Rybelsus^® can cost about $935, while Wegovy^® can cost $1,349 [2]. These prices show what manufacturers charge direct buyers or wholesalers, but people might pay more due to seller markups [2].

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Brand-name semaglutide products have different prices. A one-month supply of Ozempic^® (0.5mg pen) can cost between $814.30 and $1,012, based on the pharmacy [6]. Right now, no FDA-approved generic versions of semaglutide exist, which leads to high costs [7].

Pharmacy prices can vary greatly. Wegovy^®, for example, can range from $1,328 to $1,460 at different pharmacies [9]. Online platforms may offer better pricing. They can price Ozempic^® at $629 and Wegovy^® at $769 [10].

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If you're looking for tips on how to get semaglutide cheap, consider exploring discount programs, patient assistance initiatives, or opting for compounded versions from specialty pharmacies. People have several options to cut down their expenses:

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1. Manufacturer savings programs: Novo Nordisk has a Diabetes Savings Offer Program for patients with commercial insurance. This program can give savings of up to $450 for each 3-month prescription [6].

2. Patient Assistance Programs: Novo Nordisk's program might provide Ozempic^® at no cost to uninsured people who qualify [7].

3. Prescription discount cards: Optum Perks and similar companies offer free cards that can be used at more than 64,000 pharmacies. These cards can cut medication costs by up to 80% [7].

4. Bulk purchasing: Buying a 90-day supply often costs less per dose [6].

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The semaglutide injection price offered by Eden costs $296 per month, which is one of the cheapest semaglutide without insurance options. This price remains consistent across all dosage levels and doesn't require insurance. Eden provides compounded semaglutide, similar to the active ingredient found in brand name semaglutide products, and it's designed to be administered weekly as a self-injection. Additionally, Eden offers a discount for the first month, bringing the price down to $196.

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Semaglutide Cost Without Insurance: Online vs In-Person Pharmacies

The price of semaglutide without insurance can change between online and physical compounding pharmacies for semaglutide. Brand-name products such as Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®  can have high costs, with a month's supply priced at about $93 and $1,349, respectively [2]. Yet, some online providers may offer better pricing, with Ozempic^® at $629 and Wegovy^® at $769 [10].

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To stay safe and get authentic semaglutide online, customers should:

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1. Make sure the pharmacy asks for a prescription from a doctor [13].

2. Look for a U.S. address and check if the state board of pharmacy has licensed the pharmacy [13].

3. Check if you can talk to a pharmacist licensed by the state [13].

4. Check the FDA's database to make sure the supplier is registered [12].

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People can often perform a web search using the term “compounded semaglutide near me” to find nearby providers. To save money, people without insurance can look into programs that help patients, like Novo Nordisk's Patient Assistance Program. These might offer cheap or free medicine to those who qualify [7].

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Budgeting For Semaglutide Without Insurance Coverage

Tip #1: Look at Prices from Different Pharmacies

The price of semaglutide can vary greatly between drugstores. A month's worth of Ozempic^® can cost about $935 if the patient doesn't have insurance [6]. Patients might pay anywhere from $814 to $1,012, depending on where the drug is purchased [6]. To get the best price, patients should look at different stores. Sites like GoodRx have coupons from many pharmacies, which could help patients save money [6].

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Tip #2: Think About Generic Semaglutide Options

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Right now, there isn’t an FDA-approved generic version of semaglutide [6]. Some compounding pharmacies offer their own generic versions at cheaper prices [3]. This option might save patients money, but they’ll want to make sure these compounded medications are safe and of high quality.

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Tip #3: Check Out Patient Assistance Programs

If patients don't have insurance coverage, they have a few options when it comes to how to get semaglutide without insurance. Novo Nordisk, the company that makes Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®, has programs to help patients afford their medicine:

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1. The Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program offers free medicine to people who meet certain requirements [14].

2. To qualify, patients need to be U.S. citizens or legal residents, have a total household income at or below 400% of the federal poverty level, and not be signed up for or able to get other federal, state, or government programs [14].

3. People with private or commercial insurance can use savings programs to cut costs to as low as $25 per month [15].

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Patients can look into these options to make semaglutide more affordable without insurance coverage. Without insurance, semaglutide can be expensive. Prices can change based on the pharmacy and where patients live, but the cost of semaglutide without insurance can still be costly. Some online coupons or discount programs can help cut the cost of semaglutide

treatments.

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Alternative Options If Semaglutide Is Unaffordable

If considering semaglutide alternatives, options like tirzepatide or other GLP-1 receptor agonists might be effective for weight management and blood sugar control. It's important to discuss these alternatives with a healthcare provider to determine the best fit for a patient’s needs and health goals.

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Tirzepatide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown good results in weight loss research. A recent study compared tirzepatide to semaglutide. It found that tirzepatide worked well, with 82% of people losing 5% or more of their weight, compared to 66.5% for semaglutide [16]. Other drugs like liraglutide (Saxenda^®) and exenatide have also helped with weight management [17].

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Benefits and Drawbacks of Alternative Options

1. Tirzepatide: This drug has more impact on weight loss but might cost about the same as semaglutide [16].

2. Liraglutide: The FDA has approved this drug to help people lose weight. It can lead to weight loss of up to 8% [17].

3. Metformin: Doctors prescribe this drug for type 2 diabetes, and it might help people lose weight [18].

4. Natural options: Some studies have explored the potential of supplements like berberine, magnesium, and aloe vera in supporting general health. These are not substitutes for FDA-approved treatments for blood sugar control. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your treatment plan [18].

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Every choice comes with its own advantages and possible drawbacks. For example, tirzepatide might have a greater effect, but patients could run into the same problems with availability and insurance coverage as semaglutide [16].

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Choosing the best weight loss drug requires a custom plan for each person. A doctor can assess a patient’s needs, consider available drugs and insurance coverage, and devise a plan that works well and doesn't cost too much [16].

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Is The Cost Of Semaglutide Worth It For Weight Loss?

Before considering the medication, many people read semaglutide weight loss reviews to learn about others' experiences, but it's important to consult a healthcare provider for professional guidance. Clinical trials show that semaglutide significantly influences weight loss. People lost about 15% of their body weight (around 35 pounds) over 15 months [19]. This drop in weight makes many think about using semaglutide to manage their weight. While semaglutide before and after pictures can provide visual examples of weight loss results, it's important to remember that individual outcomes can vary and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

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Research has shown promising results when it comes to cost-effectiveness. In Canada, semaglutide 2.4 mg turned out to be the most cost-effective option at a willingness-to-pay threshold of CAD 50,000 for each quality-adjusted life year (QALY) [20]. In the same way, in the United States, semaglutide 2.4 mg proved to be cost-effective compared to other options looked at for adults who were obese or overweight with weight-related health issues [1].

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Still, semaglutide's steep price presents an obstacle for many people. If they don't have insurance, they could pay up to $1,349 per month [19]. This high cost makes it hard for many patients to get the medication, especially since insurance often doesn't cover much for weight loss drugs.

Even though semaglutide can be expensive, its potential health benefits might be worth the money for some people. What's more, losing weight with semaglutide can help improve health issues linked to being overweight, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea [19].

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Risks Associated With Buying Semaglutide From Unauthorized Sources

Buying semaglutide from ambiguous sources can put a patient’s health at risk. The FDA monitors the internet to catch fake or unapproved products. They've sent out warnings to stop people from selling illegal semaglutide [21]. These products might be fake, contain the wrong ingredients in the wrong amounts, or even contain dangerous ingredients [21].

People buying semaglutide from unregistered online pharmacies risk receiving something other than the actual drug [22]. These buyers don't have the safeguards that come with prescribed medicines [22].

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It is cautioned that getting a product with the wrong semaglutide dose poses a danger. This can make the medicine unsafe or useless [23]. Impurities in products can bring more severe risks, such as infections [23].

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To keep people safe, the FDA tells patients to buy prescription drugs from pharmacies in the U.S. that have state licenses [21]. People should stay away from any company that says it sells semaglutide without a prescription and ongoing doctor supervision [23]. The FDA's BeSafeRx campaign helps people learn how to buy prescription medicines online [21].

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Semaglutide vs Other Weight Loss Medications

Semaglutide has proved more effective than other weight loss drugs. Studies show that it leads to more significant weight loss. Within a year, 81.8% of people taking semaglutide lost ≥5% of their weight. This compares to 64.6% for other treatments [24]. Semaglutide helped 62.1% of users lose ≥10% of their weight. It also helped 42.3% lose ≥15% of their weight [24].

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A systematic review showed that semaglutide (13.7%) and phentermine/topiramate (9.1%) led to more average weight loss than liraglutide (5.0%) and bupropion/naltrexone (4.6%) [25]. A panel of experts backed up semaglutide by saying it was preferred over other treatment choices [25].

Semaglutide affects insulin release, glucagon production, and how fast the stomach empties. This helps it work well for weight control [26]. The STEP studies showed noteworthy weight loss results. People without type 2 diabetes lost 15% to 16% of their weight. Those with the condition lost 9.6% [26].

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Final Thoughts On Semaglutide Costs For Uninsured Patients

Exploring the actual cost of semaglutide when people don't have insurance reveals a tricky mix of money matters and health perks. The drug works well for losing weight and managing diabetes, with substantial results that may be more effective than many other options. But its high price without insurance makes it hard for many people to get. People may want to check prices at different pharmacies or look into programs that could help them pay for it.

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Choosing to use semaglutide means balancing its health perks against its costs. The price tag might be high, but the ways it could boost a patient’s quality of life and long-term health might make it worth it for some people. As healthcare keeps changing, there is hope that more insurance plans will cover semaglutide and that cheaper options will become available. Patients should team up with their doctors to figure out safe, effective treatment plans that won't be too expensive based on what each person needs and can afford.

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FAQ

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1. Can I use GoodRx or other discounts for semaglutide if uninsured?

Yes, individuals without insurance can use GoodRx or other discount programs to potentially lower the cost of semaglutide medications like Wegovy^®, Ozempic^®, and Rybelsus^®. GoodRx offers coupons that can be used at various pharmacies, allowing patients to compare prices and find the best deal ^[27]. For example, eligible patients may pay as little as $0 for each 28-day supply of Wegovy^® using the manufacturer's savings offer ^[27]. 

It's important to note that these discounts are only available for individuals with valid prescriptions and may not be eligible for those covered by public programs like Medicare or Medicaid ^[27].

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‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality, or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns, including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog.

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References

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1. Kim N, Wang J, Burudpakdee C, et al. Cost-effectiveness analysis of semaglutide 2.4 mg for the treatment of adult patients with overweight and obesity in the United States. Journal of Managed Care & Specialty Pharmacy. 2022;28(7):740-752. doi: https://doi.org/10.18553/jmcp.2022.28.7.740

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2. How Much Does Semaglutide Cost Without Insurance? Henrymeds.com. Published December 27, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://henrymeds.com/blog/how-much-does-semaglutide-cost-without-insurance/

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3. Forum Health. Why You Don’t Need Insurance to Make Semaglutide Weight Loss Affordable. Forum Health. Published May 23, 2022. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://forumhealth.com/blog/why-you-dont-need-insurance-to-make-semaglutide-weight-loss-affordable/

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4. Levin-Scherz J. Monthly Healthcare Insights: Medicare and obesity drugs, No Surprises Act. WTW. Published April 29, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.wtwco.com/en-us/insights/2024/04/monthly-healthcare-insights-medicare-and-obesity-drugs-no-surprises-act

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5. Sunset Primary Care. What Is The Monthly Cost of Semaglutide? Sunsetprimarycare.com. Published May 15, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://sunsetprimarycare.com/what-is-the-monthly-cost-of-semaglutide/

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6. Willson A. How Much Does Ozempic Cost? With & Without Insurance. Ro. Published April 30, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://ro.co/weight-loss/ozempic-cost-without-insurance/

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7. Lavarone K. How Much is Ozempic Without Insurance? www.medicalnewstoday.com. Published September 1, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-much-is-ozempic-without-insurance

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8. LIVation. How Much Does Semaglutide Cost? Factors That Influence Its Price. www.livationct.com. Published October 19, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.livationct.com/how-much-does-semaglutide-cost-factors-that-influence-its-price

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9. Brewer A. Cost and Wegovy: Financial assistance options, savings, more. www.medicalnewstoday.com. Published August 1, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-wegovy-cost

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10. QuickMD. Weight Loss Injection Costs: Brand vs. Non-Brand | QuickMD. Quick.md. Published August 12, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.quick.md/quick-tips/weight-loss-injection-costs-brand-vs-non-brand-comparison/

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11. Szabo L. Nearly half of online pharmacies selling weight loss drugs are operating illegally, study finds. NBC News. Published August 3, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/nearly-half-online-pharmacies-selling-weight-loss-drugs-are-operating-rcna164935

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12. Lupkin S. Thinking of buying Wegovy online. Here’s what to know about compounding pharmacies. NPR. Published June 7, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/06/07/g-s1-3331/wegovy-online-compound-semaglutide-compounding-pharmacies

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13. Lloyd M. Best Online Pharmacies Of September 2024. Forbes Health. Published July 5, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/health/wellness/best-online-pharmacies/

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14. NovoCare. Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP) | NovoCare®. www.novocare.com. Published December 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.novocare.com/diabetes/help-with-costs/pap.html

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15. NovoCare. Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg Savings & Support Resources | NovoCare®. www.novocare.com. Published December 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.novocare.com/diabetes/products/ozempic.html

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16. Freeborn J. Tirzepatide may be more effective for weight loss than semaglutide, study finds. Medicalnewstoday.com. Published July 10, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tirzepatide-more-effective-weight-loss-semaglutide-study

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17. Goldman R. Ozempic Alternatives: 3 Options For Weight Loss, According To Experts. Forbes Health. Published March 4, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.forbes.com/health/weight-loss/ozempic-alternatives/

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18. Dr. V Medical Aesthetics. What are the Best Semaglutide Natural Alternatives? Dr. V Medical Aesthetics. Published February 21, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.drvaesthetics.com/what-are-the-best-semaglutide-natural-alternatives/

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19. Weiman E. How Much Wegovy Costs Without Insurance + How to Save Money. Sesamecare.com. Published April 9, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://sesamecare.com/blog/wegovy-cost-without-insurance

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20. Olivieri AV, Muratov S, Larsen S, et al. Cost-effectiveness of weight-management pharmacotherapies in Canada: a societal perspective. International Journal of Obesity. Published online January 31, 2024. doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41366-024-01467-w

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21. US Food and Drug Administration. Medications Containing Semaglutide Marketed for Type 2 Diabetes or Weight Loss. FDA. Published online May 31, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss

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22. Steele M. Semaglutide: beware of buying the weight-loss drug online. The Conversation. Published June 16, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://theconversation.com/semaglutide-beware-of-buying-the-weight-loss-drug-online-207581

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23. Rapaport L. Getting Ozempic and Wegovy Online Without a Prescription Poses Real Dangers. EverydayHealth.com. Published August 29, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diabetes/why-its-dangerous-to-buy-ozempic-online-without-a-prescription/

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24. Rodriguez P, Goodwin Cartright B, Gratzl S. Comparative Effectiveness of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for Weight Loss in Adults with Overweight and Obesity in the US: A Real-World Evidence Study. medrxiv.org. Published November 22, 2023. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.11.21.23298775v1

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25. Atlas SJ, Kim K, Nhan E, et al. Medications for obesity management: Effectiveness and value. J Manag Care Spec Pharm. 2023;29(5):569-575. doi: https://doi.org/10.18553/jmcp.2023.29.5.569

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26. Klair N, Patel U, Saxena A, et al. What Is Best for Weight Loss? A Comparative Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Bariatric Surgery Versus Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Analogue. Cureus. 2023;15(9). doi: https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.46197

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27. Warren K. How Much Will New Weight Loss Drug Wegovy Cost? - GoodRx. GoodRx. Published September 3, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/wegovy/wegovy-for-weight-loss-cost-coverage

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28. Morris MS. What Does Rybelsus Cost Without Insurance? GoodRx. Published May 6, 2024. Accessed September 5, 2024. https://www.goodrx.com/rybelsus/rybelsus-cost-without-insurance

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