Can’t Get the $50 GLP-1s? Watch This Now!

In this episode of The Downsized, Christopher Durham walks through the options he would explore next, including insurance coverage, manufacturer savings cards, LillyDirect, NovoCare, compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide. Christopher and his wife, Laraine, have lost more than 150 pounds combined with GLP-1 medications and have paid cash for every dose because their insurance does not cover obesity treatment. Their experience includes Mounjaro, Zepbound and compounded tirzepatide. Christopher explains why the first step should be talking with your doctor and calling your insurance company to confirm which medications are covered, whether prior authorization or step therapy is required, and what your actual out-of-pocket cost would be. He also compares current cash-pay options for: • Zepbound through LillyDirect • Foundayo, also known as orforglipron • Injectable Wegovy through NovoCare • Oral Wegovy • Compounded semaglutide • Compounded tirzepatide The video also explains the difference between savings cards for people whose commercial insurance covers a medication and savings cards for people whose plan does not cover it. Christopher discusses why Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and VA patients generally cannot use manufacturer savings cards. The episode then looks at how GLP-1 prices can rise as doses increase. Christopher compares those dose-based prices with compounded medications that may remain at the same monthly price regardless of dose. Christopher also shares his personal experience moving between Mounjaro, Zepbound and compounded tirzepatide, including whether he noticed differences in appetite control, side effects or weight loss. Laraine and Christopher currently use Mochi Health for medically supervised compounded GLP-1 treatment. Mochi membership includes access to a licensed medical provider, a registered dietitian and ongoing support through its patient portal. Laraine is a Mochi Health affiliate. Her link and savings code are included below for viewers who want to explore that option. Using the link may save $40 on a first order. We use Mochi Health: https://app.joinmochi.com/eligibility... Use Laraine’s code for $40 off: QIYGO8. This video is not medical advice. Christopher and Laraine are not doctors. GLP-1 medications are prescription treatments, and decisions about medication, dosing, side effects and long-term care should be made with a qualified doctor who understands your medical history. Prices, savings programs and eligibility requirements can change. Confirm all current costs and terms directly with the manufacturer, pharmacy, insurance company or medical provider before making a decision. Which path are you using for your GLP-1 medication: insurance, the Bridge Program, LillyDirect, NovoCare, a retail savings card or compounded medication? Share your experience in the comments. +++++++++++ Start your weight loss journey today! We use Mochi Health: https://app.joinmochi.com/eligibility... Use Laraine’s code for $40 off: QIYGO8. 00:00 Navigating GLP-1 Access and Costs 02:22 STEP 1: START WITH YOUR DOCTOR AND YOUR INSURANCE 05:10 Step 2: Look at the Brand-Name Cash-Pay Options 05:33 Eli Lilly: Zepbound & Foundayo 06:46 Novo Nordisk: Wegovy 08:21 The Gap that Grows 09:19 Step 3: Compounded GLP-1 Medications 13:05 Pricing Ladder 13:48 So What Would I Actually Do?