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Obesity is a chronic, progressive disease characterized by excess body fat that increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, sleep apnea, and reduced quality of life. About 42% of US adults have obesity (BMI ≥ 30), making it one of the most common chronic conditions in the country.
GLP-1 receptor agonists slow gastric emptying, increase satiety, and reduce hunger signals — making them the most effective non-surgical treatment for obesity. Phase 3 trials (STEP for semaglutide, SURMOUNT for tirzepatide) show sustained weight loss greater than any prior medication class.
BMI is the standard screening tool: BMI 25–29.9 = overweight, ≥30 = obesity (class I 30–34.9, class II 35–39.9, class III ≥40). BMI has limits (does not distinguish muscle from fat) so clinicians may add waist circumference, body composition, or metabolic labs. Class III obesity is sometimes called "severe" obesity and may qualify for bariatric surgery or higher-intensity treatment.
Diet (Mediterranean, low-carb), exercise (150+ min/wk moderate intensity), behavioral therapy. Average weight loss: 5–10% body weight over 12 months.
Wegovy (semaglutide), Zepbound (tirzepatide) FDA-approved. Average loss: 15–22% body weight. Long-term use required to maintain loss.
Contrave (naltrexone-bupropion), Qsymia (phentermine-topiramate), Saxenda (liraglutide), Plenity (hydrogel device). Less effective than GLP-1s, but cheaper or simpler.
Gastric sleeve, gastric bypass. Best for BMI ≥40 or BMI ≥35 with comorbidity. Average loss: 25–35% body weight, durable long-term.
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Each row links to its full review with current pricing, FDA status, and the best telehealth providers offering it. Discuss with your prescriber — these are treatment options, not personal recommendations.
| Drug | Avg monthly cost | Indication match | Notes | Best providers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy semaglutide | $1349–$1500/mo | 98/100 | FDA-approved for chronic weight management + cardiovascular risk reduction | Compare |
| Zepbound tirzepatide | $349–$1086/mo | 98/100 | FDA-approved for chronic weight management + OSA in obesity | Compare |
| Saxenda liraglutide | $1100–$1500/mo | 80/100 | FDA-approved for chronic weight management — daily liraglutide | Compare |
| Compounded Semaglutide semaglutide (compounded) | $99–$350/mo | 65/100 | Compounded — lower cost but post-FDA-shortage regulatory uncertainty | Compare |
| Compounded Tirzepatide tirzepatide (compounded) | $149–$399/mo | 65/100 | Compounded — lower cost but post-FDA-shortage regulatory uncertainty | Compare |
Educational only. Discuss with your prescriber — these are treatment options, not personal recommendations. Indication-match scores reflect FDA approval status and published clinical evidence, not individual patient suitability.