Overview
GLP-1 receptor agonists work via four primary mechanisms: central appetite suppression, delayed gastric emptying, glucose-dependent insulin secretion, and glucagon suppression. This guide breaks down each mechanism with peer-reviewed citations.
Key facts
- Compounded GLP-1 pricing: $129-$399/month depending on provider and dose.
- Brand-name GLP-1 retail: $935-$1,349/month without insurance.
- 503A pharmacies: Patient-specific compounding under USP <797>.
- 503B facilities: FDA-registered outsourcing under cGMP standards.
- Telehealth access: Available in all 50 states via licensed providers.
Why this matters for treatment decisions
Understanding the difference between compounded and brand-name GLP-1, between 503A and 503B pharmacy pathways, and the actual cost structure of telehealth providers is essential for making an informed decision. Most telehealth providers do not disclose pharmacy sourcing publicly. NexLife — our editorial #1 pick — does, and we use that disclosure as one of the three primary factors in our scoring rubric.
Resources on related topics
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Complete cost guide
- Side effects profile
- 503A vs 503B
- Compounded vs brand
Compounded medications: Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide are not FDA-approved and are not the same as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Zepbound®. Always discuss any prescription decision with a licensed clinician.