Complete Guide to GLP-1 Medications & Brands, 2025 Update

Complete Guide to GLP-1 Medications & Brands: Where to Acquire Them in 2025

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have revolutionized weight management and diabetes treatment over the past two decades. These medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, slows stomach emptying, and signals the brain to feel fuller for longer periods. As demand continues to surge in 2025, understanding the available options and where to obtain them has become crucial for patients seeking effective weight loss solutions.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications

More than ten medications are already FDA approved for weight loss, with Wegovy (injectable semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), and Zepbound (tirzepatide) among the popular ones. These medications work by targeting receptors in the brain and pancreas, increasing insulin release when blood sugar is elevated and reducing appetite through multiple mechanisms.

According to current research, when combined with lifestyle modifications, patients can typically expect to lose between 5 percent and 21 percent of their body weight depending on specific medications and individual factors.

FDA-Approved GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss

Injectable Medications

Oral Medications

As of now (2025), Rybelsus (semaglutide) is the only GLP-1 RA available in oral form, though additional oral formulations are in development.

Detailed Medication Profiles

Semaglutide-Based Medications

Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) In 2024, semaglutide (Wegovy) became the first weight loss drug to also be approved for the reduction of risk of serious cardiovascular events in patients with cardiovascular disease and obesity and overweight. This weekly injection has demonstrated the most significant weight loss results among GLP-1 medications.

Wegovy for subcutaneous administration is undergoing a Priority Review from the FDA for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a fatty liver condition tied to obesity and type 2 diabetes, with a decision anticipated in 3Q 2025.

Ozempic (Semaglutide 0.5mg-2mg) Originally approved for type 2 diabetes management, Ozempic has gained significant attention for its off-label weight loss benefits. Semaglutide (Ozempic) now carries an indication for diabetic nephropathy, receiving FDA approval on January 28, 2025, to reduce the risk of kidney disease worsening, kidney failure, and death due to cardiovascular disease in adults with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Rybelsus (Oral Semaglutide) The only oral GLP-1 medication currently available, Rybelsus offers a needle-free alternative for patients who prefer not to use injections. It must be taken on an empty stomach with minimal water and requires careful timing for optimal absorption.

Tirzepatide-Based Medications (Dual GIP/GLP-1 Agonist)

Zepbound (Tirzepatide) Zepbound was approved by the FDA in November 2023 for chronic weight management as a once-weekly injectable medication that works as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, helping regulate appetite and blood sugar. In late 2024, tirzepatide (Zepbound) became the first GLP-1 and first medication to be approved for sleep apnea, expanding its therapeutic applications beyond weight management.

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Approved for type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro offers the same dual-action mechanism as Zepbound but is prescribed primarily for glycemic control. Many physicians prescribe it off-label for weight loss when Zepbound is unavailable or not covered by insurance.

Liraglutide-Based Medications

Saxenda (Liraglutide 3mg) Saxenda (liraglutide) was the first GLP-1 approved for weight loss in 2014. Unlike newer weekly injections, Saxenda requires daily administration. While the average weight loss with liraglutide is modest (about 5% more than placebo), not everyone needs robust weight loss and there is a lot of interest in "microdosing" these medications.

Generic Liraglutide The FDA approved the first generic GLP-1 specifically indicated for weight loss in August 2025, a generic version of liraglutide from Teva Pharmaceuticals, previously available only as Novo Nordisk's Saxenda. This represents a significant step toward more affordable access to GLP-1 medications.

Where to Acquire GLP-1 Medications

Traditional Healthcare Channels

1. Primary Care Physician or Endocrinologist The most straightforward path to obtaining GLP-1 medications is through your regular healthcare provider. They can evaluate your medical history, determine appropriate treatment, and work with your insurance company for coverage.

2. Specialty Weight Loss Clinics Medical weight loss centers staffed by physicians specializing in obesity medicine can provide comprehensive treatment plans that include GLP-1 medications alongside nutritional counseling and lifestyle support.

3. Local Pharmacy Networks Once prescribed, medications can be filled at:

• Chain pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid)
• Independent pharmacies
• Specialty pharmacies that focus on diabetes and weight management medications

Direct-to-Consumer Options

Manufacturer Direct Programs

NovoCare Pharmacy is an option for those who pay out-of-pocket for their medicine with a prescription for a Novo Nordisk GLP-1 RA, offering Wegovy and Ozempic pens at upfront pricing with free shipping. This service connects patients directly with the manufacturer, bypassing traditional pharmacy channels.

Similarly, both Wegovy (semaglutide, Novo Nordisk) and Zepbound (tirzepatide, Eli Lilly) are once-weekly subcutaneous medications sold directly for $499 per month.

Telehealth Platforms

Several reputable telehealth services have emerged to provide access to GLP-1 medications through virtual consultations:

Online Medical Platforms

• Ro Body Program
• PlushCare
• Lemonaid Health
• Noom Med
• WeightWatchers Clinic
• Henry Meds

These platforms typically follow this process:

1. Complete an online health intake form
2. Virtual consultation with a licensed healthcare provider
3. If approved, prescription sent to pharmacy or shipped directly
4. Ongoing monitoring and support through the platform

Cost Considerations

The current out-of-pocket cost for GLP-1s is approximately $1000 per month without insurance coverage. However, several options can reduce costs:

Insurance Coverage Coverage for GLP-1 medications for obesity is expanding, but remains patchy, with carriers potentially requiring the presence of a certain BMI and/or a weight-related condition, and may not offer coverage until other treatment modalities have been excluded.

Manufacturer Savings Programs Most major manufacturers offer copay assistance cards that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for insured patients. Check manufacturer websites for current offers.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA/HSA) GLP-1 medications prescribed for medical purposes are typically FSA/HSA eligible, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars for these expenses.

Important Safety Considerations

Compounded Medications Warning

The FDA is aware that some patients are turning to compounded versions of these drugs, which are not approved by the FDA, and serious concerns with compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide have been identified, including dosing errors, use of unapproved salt forms and adverse events—some requiring hospitalization.

All compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide became unavailable by May 22, 2025, as the FDA removed these medications from the drug shortage list. Patients previously using compounded versions must transition to FDA-approved products.

Verifying Legitimate Sources

Only FDA-approved products, clearly labeled and supplied as pre-filled pens (not loose-powder "research" vials), guarantee purity and correct dosing. The FDA's BeSafeRx campaign provides resources for safely purchasing prescription medications online.

Future Developments in GLP-1 Therapy

The GLP-1 landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Novo Nordisk is awaiting FDA approval for a 25 mg oral version of Wegovy for two new indications: chronic weight management and to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiac events in adults with overweight or obesity and established cardiovascular disease, anticipated in 4Q 2025.

Research studies for potential additional uses beyond obesity and diabetes are underway, as there is belief in the medical and scientific communities that these drugs may assist in treating a wide range of conditions, such as hypertension, addiction, heart failure, kidney disease, sleep apnea, osteoarthritis, and possibly Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease.

Making the Right Choice

Selecting the appropriate GLP-1 medication depends on multiple factors:

• Frequency preference: Daily vs. weekly administration
• Injection tolerance: Some patients prefer oral options
• Medical conditions: Specific medications offer benefits beyond weight loss
• Insurance coverage: What your plan will approve
• Cost considerations: Out-of-pocket affordability
• Side effect profile: Individual tolerance varies

Working closely with a qualified healthcare provider remains essential for determining which GLP-1 medication aligns best with your health goals, medical history, and lifestyle. These powerful medications have transformed weight management and metabolic health, offering hope to millions of people struggling with obesity and related conditions. As research continues and new formulations emerge, access and affordability are likely to improve, making these life-changing treatments available to an even broader population.