GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes that produce significant weight loss. The most common GLP-1 medications for weight loss are semaglutide (brand names: Wegovy, Wegovy HD) and tirzepatide (brand names: Zepbound, Mounjaro). The newest option under review is orforglipron — a daily oral pill awaiting FDA approval (expected April 2026). They work by mimicking a hormone that reduces appetite and slows gastric emptying.
### What is happening with compounded semaglutide?
Compounded semaglutide — the $149/month option that many budget telehealth providers rely on — is under increasing regulatory pressure in 2026. The FDA has issued enforcement actions against 30+ compounding pharmacies. Hims has exited compounding entirely. Several providers (Ro, Henry Meds, Noom, Found) continue to offer compounded options, but availability may tighten further. [Read our compounding guide](/guides/compounded-semaglutide-legal-safety-2026) for the full story.
### What is orforglipron?
Orforglipron is a daily oral GLP-1 pill (no injection) awaiting FDA approval expected around April 2026. Eli Lilly has announced plans to price it at $149/month via LillyDirect. Clinical trials showed approximately 10-12% average body weight loss. The main side effect is nausea (59% of patients in clinical trials, usually temporary). If approved as anticipated, it would become the leading affordable brand-name option. [Read our complete orforglipron guide](/guides/orforglipron-complete-guide).
### Are these rankings influenced by advertising?
No. Telehealth Ally does not accept paid placements, affiliate commissions, or sponsored rankings. Our revenue model is based on lead generation, not provider advertising. Rankings are determined solely by our published scoring methodology.
### How often are these rankings updated?
Monthly. We re-evaluate pricing, patient reviews, and provider changes on a rolling basis. The "Last updated" date at the top reflects the most recent comprehensive review.
### Do I need a prescription for GLP-1 medications?
Yes. All GLP-1 medications require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Every platform on this list connects you with a licensed prescriber who will evaluate your eligibility based on BMI, health history, and other factors.
### What BMI do I need to qualify?
Most providers require a BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related health condition (hypertension, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol) or a BMI of 30+. Some providers have slightly different eligibility thresholds. Orforglipron has the same prescribing criteria as other GLP-1 weight loss medications.
### Will Medicare cover GLP-1 medications?
The Medicare Bridge program is scheduled to launch July 1, 2026 and would cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss at a $50/month copay — which would be the biggest access expansion in the category's history. Several providers on this list (FORM Health, Calibrate, PlushCare, Sequence) are preparing Medicare navigation. [Read our Medicare GLP-1 coverage guide](/guides/medicare-glp1-coverage-2026-update).
### What about CagriSema?
CagriSema (Novo Nordisk's next-generation semaglutide + cagrilintide combination) has been under FDA review since December 2025. As of February 2026, no PDUFA decision date has been publicly disclosed. If approved, it would represent the most effective GLP-1 option yet. We have a [CagriSema patient guide](/guides/cagrisema-patient-guide) and [launch day guide](/guides/cagrisema-launch-day-patient-guide) ready for publication when a decision arrives.