How to Get Semaglutide: Prescriptions, Telehealth & Savings Tips

Most people talk about the struggles of weight loss. How challenging it can be to modify habits and make them stick long-term. However, what most people don’t talk about is the economic burden it can be, especially if you are using weight loss medication, such as Wegovy and Ozempic. 

Between insurance barriers, prior authorization paperwork, and questions about legitimate online sources, many struggle to access these life-changing medications and resources. 

The good news is that there are multiple pathways to help you obtain semaglutide injections legally and safely, all without making your wallet thinner. Understanding what options you have available is going to allow you to save time, money, and most importantly, frustration. 

Here, we are going to guide you through every legitimate route to get your weekly shots of semaglutide. From traditional healthcare visits to emerging telehealth platforms, we are going to cover everything. You’ll discover money-saving tips and red flags to avoid.

Who Qualifies for Semaglutide?

The FDA has approved the use of semaglutide for specific medical conditions with clear qualification criteria. When you understand what you need in order to get the semaglutide injections, it makes it easier to know if you are eligible to get it, that way you don’t waste time (or money) in your appointment. 

For type 2 diabetes, the recommended medication is Ozempic. It’s indicated for adults who haven’t achieved optimal blood sugar levels with at least one failed oral medication. Additionally, your healthcare provider will require recent A1c levels above 7% and documented attempts with medications like metformin or sulfonylureas. 

When it comes to weight loss, the only semaglutide medication that is approved by the FDA is Wegovy. To obtain WEgovy, you need to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² with at least one weight-related comorbidity such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or sleep apnea. 

Recently, the FDA has recognized Wegovy as a tool to help reduce adverse cardiovascular events (cardiovascular death, heart attack, and stroke). That is why it’s also recommended for people with obesity who have an increased risk of heart disease. 

Many healthcare providers prescribe semaglutide off-label for weight loss in those who don’t meet strict FDA criteria. While it is legal, it’s important to understand that off-label use may face additional insurance coverage challenges and requires more thorough documentation of its medical necessity. 

Route #1 — Primary-Care or Endocrinologist Visit

The first route we are going to go over for you to get semaglutide is a visit to your healthcare provider or endocrinologist. This still remains the most popular way to help you get semaglutide for weight loss goals. 

If this is the route you want to go with, you first need to schedule a healthcare provider or request a referral to an endocrinologist. Before your appointment, make sure that you gather your medical history, current medications, previous weight loss attempts, and specific health goals you want to achieve. 

Your healthcare will then order the necessary laboratory tests, including recent A1c levels (especially for those with diabetes), metabolic panels, and lipid profiles. These results are going to help determine the best dosing and establish baseline measurements for monitoring treatment progress. 

In your sessions, you should expect discussions regarding potential side effects, proper injection techniques, lifestyle modifications, and realistic treatment outcomes. 

Now, if you are using your insurance plan, keep in mind that your provider may need to do some prior authorization paperwork. The required paperwork is going to depend on each company’s policies and it typically takes 7-14 days to get it all done. Once you get the approval and your doctor prescribes your medication, you can then go to your local retail pharmacy to get your prescription. 

One of the main advantages of this route is that it includes comprehensive medical oversight, it has easier insurance navigation, and it can establish a strong patient-provider relationship (helping you get better results). However, keep in mind that it’s all going to depend on the clinic’s availability, and prior authorization can extend when you are able to start treatment. 

Route #2 — Telehealth GLP-1 Clinics

Telehealth medicine has emerged as a convenient way to get your medical prescriptions from the comfort of your home. Using a telephone or video platform, you can get your semaglutide prescription. 

Nowadays, there are many companies that offer telehealth wellness solutions. Options like Ro, Him & Hers, K Health, and Sequence have created complete online consultation that include detailed health questionnaires to help understand the patient. Additionally, you may need to fill in medical history forms, upload photos (if required), and schedule a virtual appointment with a licensed healthcare provider to talk about your medical history and goals. 

Most platforms also require you to get basic laboratory panels before prescribing semaglutide (just like an in-house medical appointment). While you can get them at your local laboratory, some offer at-home testing kits. You typically get your results within 3-5 business days, which means you can then get your prescription. 

There are two main types of interactions you can get from a telehealth visit. Some offer asynchronous visits, meaning you write to your healthcare provider and receive a response within a few hours or days. Others offer live video appointments to make the process easier and more user-friendly. 

Additionally, some platforms offer ongoing support through dedicated care teams, medication monitoring, and lifestyle coaching to help you get the most out of your weight loss journey. 

One of the biggest benefits of telehealth services is that you can get the medicine delivered to your doorstep. Normally, these companies partner with pharmacies to help you ship medications directly to your home with the right cold storage packaging. 

Besides convenience, telehealth also offers other benefits such as faster access, and specialized expertise in GLP-1 medications. However, keep in mind that costs may be higher than regular healthcare, and there are some insurance plans that don’t cover telehealth prescriptions. 

Route #3 — Compounded Semaglutide (Post-Shortage Reality)

The final option to help you get semaglutide is by getting compounded semaglutide. Previously it was easy to get compounded semaglutide due to the semaglutide shortage. In February 2025, the FDA officially ended the drug shortage of semaglutide, significantly shifting the legality of compounded semaglutide. 

Currently, only patient-specific 503A compounding is allowed, meaning that pharmacies can only prepare individualized formulations for specific patients with documented medical needs that commercial products cannot meet. 

The problem with compounding semaglutide is that licensed pharmacies may still offer semaglutide in alternative salt forms. However, the FDA has issued a specific warning about safety differences between these formulations and FDA-approved versions. If you are getting compounded semaglutide, make sure you avoid salt-based semaglutide injections. 

Typical costs for legitimate compounded semaglutide can range from $200 to $450 per month (without insurance coverage). But since it may be harder to get, it’s important to work with your healthcare provider to get the right documentation to show the need of compounded semaglutide over the commercial option. 

By using OnlineSemaglutide.org, you can rest assured you are getting legitimate compounded semaglutide. Our pharmacy providers have proper 503A licensing.

Insurance Approval & Prior Authorization

One of the good news about semaglutide is that you could get it through your insurance plan. However, this will vary based on your diagnosis and your specific plan benefits. 

For example, people with diabetes typically have fewer coverage barriers since Ozempic has been established as a blood glucose management medication. And, since most insurance plans cover diabetes medications with standard copayments, it makes it easier to access this medication. 

On the other hand, when it comes to obesity there are some setbacks. Obesity treatment with Wegovy almost always requires prior authorization documentation. Here, your healthcare provider must submit detailed letters including BMI calculations, documented weight-related health conditions, and evidence of previous weight loss attempts with diet, exercise, and other medications. 

Keep in mind that Medicare currently doesn’t cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss, but the pending Treat and Reduce Obesity Act could change this policy. It’s said that Medicare D may cover diabetes indications with appropriate documentation. 

If your initial prior authorization gets denied, don’t give up. Many successful appeals include additional documentation such as detailed weight histories, photographs of previous treatment attempts, and letters from specialists supporting medical necessity. 

Savings Cards, Coupons & Foundations

Semaglutide for weight loss can be expensive. But there are many manufacturer savings programs that can significantly help you reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

OnlineSemaglutide.org offers a $100 off your first month using the coupon code: welcome-100

The Ozempic Savings Card offers up to $150 in savings for those patients that have commercial insurance. While this program covers copayments and coinsurance, keep in mind that you cannot combine it with government insurance programs like Medicare and Medicaid. 

Another option is the Wegovy program, which offers a $25 copay for the first six prescriptions for those with commercial insurance. After the first six prescriptions, you may be eligible for ongoing savings based on your income and insurance status. 

The NovoCare Bridge program offers temporary assistance for those who are experiencing insurance coverage gaps or delays in their authorization. However, this program is usually meant to provide short-term medication while you are figuring out coverage issues. 

GoodRx coupons can supplement insurance benefits in some cases, but make sure you carefully review stacking rules with your pharmacy. Some insurance plans don’t allow combining manufacturer coupons with additional discount programs. 

Finally, there are some patient assistance foundations that may offer additional support for qualifying individuals. Research organizations like the Patient Access Network Foundation and Chronic Disease Fund can provide support based on income and additional criteria. 

International & Medical-Tourism Options

Due to increased pricing in the US, some people have explored international options for them to get their semaglutide medications to help lower costs. 

Canadian online pharmacies offer semaglutide at prices often 40-60% lower than US retail costs. However, it’s important to know that international prescription medications are in a legal gray area, and the FDA doesn’t guarantee the safety or authenticity of international products. 

The UK’s NHS covers semaglutide for eligible patients, but it’s difficult to access treatment, especially for non-residents. To get it, you may need to get complex private healthcare arrangements and substantial costs that may result in higher costs than in the US. 

Now, if you are considering international options, research proper cold storage requirements for semaglutide during shipping and travel. These medications require refrigeration and can lose their effectiveness if exposed to extreme temperatures. 

Additionally, consult with your US healthcare provider before pursuing international medication sources. They can help evaluate risks and ensure proper monitoring regardless of your medication source. 

FAQs

Can I get semaglutide without a prescription?

No, you can only get semaglutide with a medical prescription. Keep in mind that any website or source that offers semaglutide without requiring a valid prescription is not legal and may be selling counterfeit medications. 

How fast can an online clinic ship?

Most telehealth platforms can ship semaglutide within 3-7 business days once your prescription has been approved. Do keep in mind that it may take 1-2 weeks for you to receive your medication, as you will require proper lab work and medical consultations. 

Will prices fall when patents expire?

Semaglutide patents won’t expire until the early 2030s, so generic versions won’t be available until then. However, since there has been increased competition from similar GLP-1 medications and potential biosimilar versions, we may see pricing pressure before the patent expires. 

Key Takeaways & Next Steps

• Qualification: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for semaglutide, which is typically based on BMI, existing medical conditions, or other health factors. When in doubt, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. 
• Prescription Paths: Explore getting a prescription through your primary care provider, a weight management specialist, or trusted telehealth services. 
• Cost Hacks: There are different ways to help you lower the pricing of semaglutide including discounted rates, manufacturing coupons, or assistance programs. 
• Be Careful With Compounded Versions: Be aware of the risks associated with compound semaglutide. Always check your provider and pharmacy to ensure you are not putting your health at risk. 

Are you looking for a budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t skimp on quality? Schedule a telehealth consultation to discuss semaglutide options or download our Prior Authorization checklist to simplify the process with your insurance provider. 

Important Safety Information: Semaglutide carries an FDA boxed warning regarding potential thyroid C-cell tumours observed in animal studies. Patients with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 should not use semaglutide.