Weight Watchers and Willow Semaglutide: Which one is Right for You?

Are you struggling with weight loss and unsure where to turn for help? Have you considered Semaglutide but are worried about its affordability, eligibility, or where to get it?

This blog is here to provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. Today, we’re comparing two popular weight loss providers: Weight Watchers and Willow Semaglutide. Weight Watchers now offers the generic compounded Semaglutide, which was originally developed for diabetes management but has proven highly effective for weight loss in both diabetics and individuals with obesity.

Thanks to the FDA and it's emergency exception to allow compounding pharmacies to manufacture compounded Semaglutide, due to shortage announcement in January 2024 we all now have the option of this more affordable option to begin our weight loss journey.

I have personally reviewed and ranked over 60 online Semaglutide providers in my Complete Comparison chart, and here’s what I found: Weight Watchers ranks #26 on the list, and Willow ranks #46. This means that there are at least twenty-five other providers offering Semaglutide at a lower monthly cost than either Weight Watchers or Willow.

As someone who has lost over 35 pounds, some of it with the assistance of compounded Semaglutide, I understand how important it is to find a reliable and affordable provider. With so many new companies offering Semaglutide, it can be overwhelming to know which ones are reputable and which ones offer the best value. That's why I created this chart based on my personal research and feedback from others. After all, you’ll likely be on Semaglutide for several months, so finding an affordable option is key.

Do You Qualify for a Semaglutide Prescription?

If you're wondering whether you're eligible for a Semaglutide prescription, there are a few criteria you need to meet. Most providers require that you have a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI between 27 and 30, along with at least one weight-related comorbid condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Keep in mind that BMI is just one factor in determining eligibility, and your licensed medical doctor will assess all aspects of your health to create a personalized weight loss program. You can quickly check your BMI by searching for any online BMI calculator—just enter your height and weight, and it will provide your BMI.

How to Get Started with Weight Watchers or Willow

If you decide to go with Weight Watchers, the process begins by taking their quiz. This helps determine if you can successfully manage your weight with the WW app alone, or if you would benefit from workshops, meetings, and dietitian support. The quiz also helps identify whether you may qualify for Semaglutide, a medical weight loss drug. Weight Watchers offers both branded versions of Semaglutide for those with insurance coverage and generic compounded versions for those without coverage.

For Willow, the process is simple and completely online. You'll share your medical history with their doctors, who will then determine the safest and most effective medication for your body, lifestyle, and weight loss goals. If Semaglutide or another GLP-1 medication is appropriate, they will prescribe it, and it will be shipped directly to your doorstep. With Willow, you also receive ongoing care and personalized follow-ups with your doctor at no extra charge.

Cost Breakdown: Weight Watchers vs. Willow

When it comes to cost, here’s what you can expect:

Weight Watchers: Their all-inclusive plan, which includes access to the WW points diet program, the WW app, unlimited meetings, dietitian support, and access to medical weight loss prescriptions, costs $99 per month, not including the medication itself. Weight Watchers charges $129 for the first month of medications and $189 for subsequent months, making the total cost $288 per month. Additionally, there is a $49 one-time consultation fee to get the prescription.

Willow: Willow charges a fixed price of $299 per month for Semaglutide, regardless of the prescribed dose. They don’t require any membership or subscription fees, and there are no additional consult fees.

Recap of Pricing

Weight Watchers: $288 per month, plus a one-time $49 consultation fee.

Willow: $299 per month, with no initial consult fee.

As you can see, there’s only a $10 difference between the two providers. However, Weight Watchers' program includes additional weight loss support such as meetings or dietitian consultations.

If you’re purely looking for the most affordable option for Semaglutide and don't want the the additional support,  I’d suggest checking out Joi Women’s Wellness or Blokes Modern Men’s Health, owned by Josh and Katy Whalen.  These providers rank #1 on my list for the most affordable Semaglutide options.

Final Thoughts: Which Provider Should You Choose?

Choosing the right Semaglutide provider depends on your individual needs and preferences.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive weight loss program that includes support through meetings, dietitians, and a personalized diet plan then look at Weight Watchers. Plus they are $10 less per month than Willow Semaglutide.

For more detailed information, including rankings and comparisons of over 60 online Semaglutide providers, be sure to check out my Complete Semaglutide Comparison Chart. This chart will help you find the most affordable and reputable Semaglutide providers, ensuring that you make an informed decision that fits both your health goals and your budget.