HERS vs. WILLOW Semaglutide for Weight Loss, Which is more Affordable
Compound Semaglutide for Weight Loss
What’s the difference between Semaglutide and then the name branded versions Wegovy or Ozempic? It's truly just that. The branded versions come from big pharmaceutical companies like Novo Nordisk whereas the unbranded versions of Semaglutide come from a Compounding Pharmacies and are much more affordable.
Medical Insurance does not cover compounded Semaglutide, the non-branded versions. If you are looking to use your insurance to cover the cost of name-brand products like Ozempic and Wegovy, keep reading.
What is a Compounding Pharmacy?
Compounding pharmacies are regulated through a combination of federal and state oversight, although the specifics can vary depending on the jurisdiction. The FDA provides oversight at the federal level, especially for outsourcing facilities, while state boards of pharmacy handle day-to-day regulation and enforcement for traditional compounding pharmacies. This dual system helps ensure that compounded medications are safe and effective while accommodating the specific needs of individual patients.
In 2021 the FDA approved the use of GLP-1 drugs also known as Semaglutide and Tirzepitide for weight loss. Then in January of 2024, the FDA stated that there was a shortage of GLP-1 drugs. It was at that time that FDA gave compounding pharmacies an emergency exception to begin producing Semaglutide to help with the shortage.
Willow and hers/hims compound Semaglutide, how they work
For hers to get started, you'll create an account, complete your medical history and make a decision on whether you want to start on a month-to-month plan or possibly purchase three or multiple months all at one time. You may be able to use insurance with hers and hims, but you'll be on your own to navigate the pre-authorization process. You'll put the package of your choice in your cart then check out. They'll contact you and let you know if you qualify. If you don't qualify, you'll be refunded.
Willow will ask you to complete an in-take form, and then purchase our first month of Semaglutide for $299. If it's decided that you don't qualify for semaglutide, they will refund your money.
It's pretty normal for companies who sell compound semaglutide to expect you to purchase before it's decided if you qualify.
Willow vs hers Cost Comparison
The prices below are for the generic compounded semaglutide. If you are approved for the brand name versions, your insurance will dictate your monthly cost.
hers/hims Semaglutide Pricing
hers/hims 3 Month Package - $897 or $299/month
Month-to-Month pricing $399.00
Willow Semaglutide Pricing
This company offers one option for compounded Semaglutide.
Cost Per Month: $299
The cost will remain the same regardless of the dose you are prescribed. This makes working with Willow simple as you won't have to tweak your budget each month if your prescribed dose is increased.
Does Willow or hers charge an initial consultation fee?
No.
Will hers/hims or Willow help me navigate my insurance?
No, if you want to use your insurance, you'll be on your own to get a pre-authorization. Keep in mind, insurance only covers the name brand versions, which you can get from HERS/HIMS but not from Willow.
hers/hims and Willow, What we like and what could be better?
1. Both companies are LegitScript Certified, meaning they have been certified by an outside organization on their verification of facilitating transactions for pharmacies. It also means that they have been approved for card-not-present transactions over the internet.
2. Willow is simple, we like simple. They don't make you work to find the pricing information we all want.
3. Hers has their pricing buried pretty deep, I had to really dig to find the package and month-to-month pricing. If we as consumers are paying out of pocket, I don't understand why they make it so hard to find the pricing we are looking for.
Willow VS hers/hims, which one is more cost-effective?
When you compare HERS/HIMS three month package at $897.00, which equates to $299 per month, it's the same exact price as Willow's month to month plan at $299. Keep in mind these two providers are ranked #35 out of over 50 online providers, so there are at least thirty-four other providers who are more affordable then HERS or Willow.
Compare Semaglutide Cost Comparison Chart
Be sure to click below to see the full comparison chart of the over 50+ providers who offer compound Semaglutide as a telehealth option. If you are like me, you are seeing many providers advertising all over social media? Use my chart to help you determine which one is the best fit for you. There are even a few coupon codes for some of them as well!
