Weight Watchers GLP-1 (Semaglutide) Review of their Program and Costs

Did you know that WW now offers Semaglutide for weight loss in addition to their infamous app, points program and the option to attend meetings and workshops.  In this review I'll review Weight Watchers GLP-1 program and costs.

Many of us know that we need the additional weight loss support in addition to medical weight loss drugs in order to have sustainable weight loss.  If you lose the weight using semaglutide and don't learn new habits, you are likely to gain y our weight back.  Use your time on Semaglutide to learn new habits and how to eat in a way that supports your body.

WW is ranked #19 on my Comparison Chart, meaning there are about 18 other companies than sell Weight Loss programs that include Semaglutide for a more affordable price.  If you are specifically looking for Semaglutide, plus Weight Loss Support, then I'd also check out Pomegranate. 

WW  – How it Works

We've all heard about Weight Watchers, they've been around for years, but did you know that they now incorporate GLP-1's or Semaglutide into their program?

How to get started:

1) Take the 5-minute Quiz - Tell them about your medical history and weight journey to see if you’re a good fit for medications.

2)  Meet your Medical Provider - After you join WW, your dedicated medical provider will review your assessment and, if eligible, develop your treatment plan.

3)  Receive your treatment plan - Your provider will consider appropriate medications for you, which in many cases include GLP-1s.

4)  Begin your Journey - Start the program in the WW app, meet with your Registered Dietitian, and join the Clinic community on Connect.

Weight Watchers GLP-1 Program

You start out with taking their quiz. This will help you determine if you are the type who can do okay with the WW app alone or if you are one who would benefit from having access to the WW app as well as workshops/meetings and Dietitian support. You'll also learn from the online quiz if you might benefit and qualify for Semaglutide, a medical weight loss drug.  

 The memberships will range from $10 to $49/month for the initial month and then $10- $99 per month after month one.  The all inclusive membership includes the Points Program, the WW App, unlimited meetings and then access to a medical professional who can write you a prescription for Semaglutide and is $99 per month. You can choose between virtual meetings or in-person. They even have a setting in the app that accommodates the fact that you are on a GLP-1.  This setting will help you customize your diet to ensure you get adequate protein and fiber into your diet.

Cost & Weight Loss Journey Options with Weight Watchers

The initial consultation is $49 and is non-refundable regardless of which direction you go.  The medical professionals at WW are able to write prescriptions for branded drugs like Wegovy or Ozempic as well as the generic compounded Semaglutide.  You'll want to ensure you know your insurance will cover weight loss drugs before you ask for the branded, more expensive version of semaglutide. Insurance won't cover generic compounded semaglutide.  

Their month one pricing for the generic compounded semaglutide is $129 and then month two and beyond it is $189.  Keep in mind you'll also be paying $99 for the WW membership on top of the $189 per month, so your all in for month two and beyond is $288.  This makes WW #18 out of 50 online Semaglutide providers.  

Cost per Month:  $288

You'll also have the initial consultation fee of $49 to get the ball rolling.  

How much weight can I lose with WW GLP-1 Program?

Weight Watchers indicates that their clientele lose on average 3.5% more weight by following their Doctor recommended program. They state that their program is now easier to follow, easier to stick with, and more effective than ever before.

How do I know if I qualify for Semaglutide?

To be considered for GLP medications from most providers, you must have:

BMI of 30+

OR

BMI of 27 or greater AND

the presence of at least one weight-related comorbid condition

(hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol)

BMI is just one factor in determining eligibility, and your Weight Watchers licensed medical professionals will customize a program tailored to your individual needs and goals.

Can I use my insurance to pay for the medications or program costs?

They appear to be able to help you navigate your insurance to see if it may cover some of the medication and/or diet support programs they offer.

Are they licensed in all 50 States?

No.  These are the states that Weight Watchers is not able to prescribe medications (CA, MS, lA and AL)

Does Weight Watchers accept HSA credit cards?

They claim to offer step-by-step guidance to start your reimbursement.  

WW What we Like

1) It's Weight Watchers.  An organization that has been around for a really, really long time. It's a name we trust and they have lots of studies and papers showing that their "points" programs have helped thousands of people lose weight.  

2) Weight Watchers is 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.

What could be better?

1) They seem to offer a complete package that includes, community support, dietitian support and a tried and trusted points program.  However, all that support comes with a price.  At $288 per month you have about 17 other options that are more cost effective.  

See complete comparison chart to see how WW ranks against their competition.