JOI 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 Joi Women's Wellness compound Semaglutide, how they work

For JOI to get started, you'll create an account, complete your medical history and make a decision on whether you want to start on with a 2/4/6 or 8 Month Supply.  You'll put the package of your choice in your cart then check out. Use Coupon Code BRONSON for 10% off your order.  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 your 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 Joi Women's Wellness Cost Comparison

Joi Women's Wellness

• 2 Mo Supply - $ 799/$720 with coupon-$359/mo average

• 4 Mo Supply - $1049/$945 with coupon-$236/mo average

• 6 Mo Supply - $1299/$1169 with coupon-$194/mo average

• 8 Mo Supply - $1599/$1633 with coupon-$180/mo average

Willow

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. 

Use Coupon Code BRONSON for 10% off your 2/4/6 or 8 Month Supply of Semaglutide from Joi Women's Wellness.

Does Willow or Joi charge an initial consultation fee?

Joi offers initial consultations for $50, if you want it.  In most cases, if you don't ask for a consult initially they won't offer or require it, so up to you if you want to spend the $50 for the initial visit with a Joi Healthcare Coach. 

Will Joi Women's Wellness 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 Joi, but not from Willow.

Joi 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 and Joi Women's Wellness are both simple, we like simple. They don't make you work to find the pricing or any of the information needed to make an informed decision.

Willow VS Joi Women's Wellness, which one is more cost-effective?

When you compare either the 4/6 or 8 Month Supply of Joi, $236 to $180/monthly average to Willow's monthly price of $299, Joi is the clearly the winner in this match up.  

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!