What's the difference in cost between compounded and brand GLP-1 medications?

Compounded GLP-1 medications can cost significantly less than brand-name versions, typically ranging from $100-$400 per month compared to $800-$1,600 for branded Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound. Compounding pharmacies create customized versions of semaglutide or tirzepatide based on prescriptions, often at lower prices due to reduced overhead and different manufacturing processes.

However, compounded medications carry important considerations. They are not FDA-approved, meaning quality, purity, and efficacy are not guaranteed to the same standards as brand medications. The FDA has issued warnings about certain compounded GLP-1 products containing impurities or incorrect dosages. Additionally, insurance coverage for compounded medications is inconsistent, and many plans exclude them entirely.