Overview
- After FDA clearance in late December, pharmacies began stocking the daily semaglutide tablets on Jan. 5, with availability reported at more than 70,000 locations and through telehealth partners.
- Uninsured cash prices are reported around $149 to $299 per month, while manufacturer programs can reduce costs for commercially insured patients to about $25.
- Doctors and studies report weight loss comparable to injectable Wegovy when paired with diet and exercise.
- Prescribers emphasize strict administration: take first thing in the morning on an empty stomach with no more than 4 ounces of water, then wait at least 30 minutes before any food, beverages, or other medications.
- Clinicians flag common gastrointestinal side effects and urge patients to avoid cheaper compounded versions sold online that are not FDA approved.