How do I get a Wegovy prescription?

We may earn a commission for purchases through links on our site at no cost to you, Learn more. All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All Wegovy product and service names used in this website are for informational purposes only. Use of these names and brands does not imply endorsement.

To get a Wegovy prescription, you’ll need to consult with a licensed healthcare professional, either in person or through a telehealth service. Wegovy, a prescription-only weight loss medication, is approved for adults and adolescents with obesity or overweight individuals with weight-related health conditions, subject to specific eligibility criteria determined by a qualified healthcare provider.

Eligibility criteria for Wegovy

To qualify for a Wegovy prescription, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the FDA. Adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or greater, or those with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater who also have at least one weight-related comorbidity, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure, may be eligible. An obesity diagnosis is required for adolescents aged 12 and older. 

However, Wegovy is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). A healthcare professional will assess your medical history and current health status to determine if Wegovy is appropriate and safe for you.

Virtual consultations for Wegovy prescriptions

Virtual consultations have become a popular and convenient method for obtaining Wegovy prescriptions. Telehealth platforms like EUDoctor offer online consultations with licensed healthcare professionals who can evaluate patients for Wegovy eligibility. 

These virtual appointments allow individuals to discuss their medical history, current health status, and weight management goals with a qualified provider. During the consultation, healthcare professionals assess the patient’s suitability for Wegovy, considering factors such as BMI, weight-related health conditions, and potential contraindications. If deemed appropriate, the provider can issue a prescription for Wegovy, which can then be filled at a local pharmacy or through a mail-order service. 

This streamlined process makes it easier for eligible patients to access Wegovy without the need for in-person visits, particularly benefiting those in rural areas or with limited access to healthcare facilities.

Insurance coverage and savings programs

Insurance coverage for Wegovy varies among providers, but many major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Health Care, offer some level of coverage. To determine if your insurance covers Wegovy, contact your provider directly or use Novo Nordisk’s NovoCare website to check coverage and manage costs.

If insurance doesn’t cover Wegovy or you’re uninsured, there are savings options available. Eligible commercially insured patients may pay as little as $25 per 28-day supply with a Wegovy Savings Copay Card, with a maximum savings of $200 per prescription fill. For those without insurance, Novo Nordisk offers patient assistance programs that can be accessed by calling 1-888-809-3942. Additionally, the recent FDA approval of Wegovy for reducing cardiovascular risks may lead to improved insurance coverage in the future.

Can I get a prescription for Wegovy online?

It is possible to get a Wegovy prescription online through accredited telehealth platforms. These virtual services connect patients with licensed healthcare providers authorized to prescribe Wegovy and other weight loss medications. The process typically involves scheduling a virtual consultation with a healthcare professional who will assess your eligibility for Wegovy based on your medical history, current health status, and weight management goals.

During the online consultation, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your health concerns, symptoms, lifestyle, diet, and exercise habits. This comprehensive approach allows the healthcare provider to decide whether Wegovy is appropriate for your specific situation. To ensure the most accurate assessment, it’s crucial to be honest and thorough in your descriptions.

Many telehealth platforms offer a streamlined process for obtaining Wegovy prescriptions. For instance, some services provide assistance with insurance coverage inquiries and can help coordinate prescription authorization with your insurance provider. This can make the process of accessing Wegovy more convenient and less cumbersome for patients seeking support in their weight loss journey.

However, it’s important to be cautious when seeking online prescriptions. Only use reputable telehealth platforms that require a valid prescription and operate within regulatory guidelines. Be wary of online pharmacies offering unrealistically low prices or those that don’t require a prescription, as these may be selling counterfeit or unsafe medications. Additionally, some states may have specific laws or regulations regarding online prescriptions, so it’s essential to verify the legality and availability of this service in your area.

When obtaining a Wegovy prescription online, you can expect the healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and potential side effects of the medication, as well as how it fits into your overall weight management plan. They may also order specific lab tests to gather additional information before making a final decision. If prescribed, the medication can typically be delivered to your home or picked up from a local pharmacy, depending on the service and your preference.

Remember that while online prescriptions offer convenience, Wegovy is not a standalone solution for weight loss. It’s most effective when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Your online healthcare provider should emphasize the importance of these lifestyle modifications and may offer ongoing support and guidance throughout your weight loss journey.

How do you ask your doctor for Wegovy?

When considering asking your doctor for Wegovy, it’s important to approach the conversation prepared and informed. Here are some key steps to take when discussing Wegovy with your healthcare provider:

1. Schedule an appointment: Make a specific appointment to discuss weight management options, including Wegovy. This ensures you have dedicated time to address your concerns.
2. Be open and honest: During your appointment, be transparent about your weight loss struggles, previous attempts to lose weight, and any health conditions you have. This information is crucial for your doctor to assess your eligibility for Wegovy.
3. Discuss your weight loss goals: Clearly communicate your weight loss objectives and why you’re interested in Wegovy. Explain how your current weight affects your health and quality of life.
4. Provide your medical history: Be prepared to discuss your complete medical history, including any family history of thyroid cancer or other conditions that might affect your eligibility for Wegovy.
5. Ask about eligibility: Inquire whether you meet the criteria for Wegovy prescription. Typically, this includes having a BMI of 30 or greater (or 27 or greater with at least one weight-related comorbidity).
6. Discuss potential side effects and risks: Ask your doctor about the potential side effects and risks associated with Wegovy. This demonstrates that you’ve done your research and are serious about the treatment.
7. Inquire about lifestyle changes: Ask how Wegovy should be combined with diet and exercise for optimal results. This shows your commitment to a comprehensive weight loss approach.
8. Address insurance and cost concerns: Discuss potential insurance coverage and any available savings programs for Wegovy.
9. Be patient and respectful: Remember that your doctor’s primary concern is your health. If they don’t recommend Wegovy, ask about alternative weight loss options.
10. Follow-up: If your doctor agrees that Wegovy might be appropriate, discuss the next steps, including any required tests or follow-up appointments.

By approaching the conversation in an informed and respectful manner, you increase the likelihood of a productive discussion about whether Wegovy is the right choice for your weight loss journey. Remember, the decision to prescribe Wegovy ultimately rests with your healthcare provider based on their professional assessment of your individual health needs and circumstances.

What kind of doctor prescribes Wegovy?

Various types of healthcare professionals can prescribe Wegovy, provided they are licensed and authorized to prescribe medications for weight management. The most common types of doctors who prescribe Wegovy include:

1. Primary care physicians (PCPs): Many patients start their weight loss journey with their regular doctor. PCPs are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking weight management solutions and can prescribe Wegovy if appropriate.
2. Endocrinologists: These specialists focus on hormonal disorders and metabolic health. They are well-versed in medications like Wegovy that affect metabolism and weight regulation.
3. Obesity medicine specialists: Doctors who specialize in obesity treatment are particularly qualified to prescribe Wegovy and other weight loss medications. They have extensive experience in managing obesity as a chronic disease.
4. Cardiologists: The recent FDA approval of Wegovy for reducing cardiovascular risks in patients with overweight or obesity means that cardiologists may now prescribe this medication to eligible patients with established cardiovascular disease.
5. Nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs): In many states, these advanced practice providers can prescribe medications, including Wegovy, under the supervision of a licensed physician.
6. Bariatric physicians: These doctors specialize in medical weight loss and are well-equipped to prescribe and manage Wegovy treatment.

It’s important to note that regardless of the type of healthcare provider, they must be specifically trained and authorized to prescribe obesity management medications like Wegovy. This ensures that patients receive appropriate care and monitoring throughout their treatment.

When seeking a prescription for Wegovy, patients can choose between in-person consultations or telehealth services. In-person visits allow for a more comprehensive physical examination and the establishment of a long-term relationship with the healthcare provider. However, telehealth platforms have made it increasingly convenient for patients to access qualified professionals who can prescribe Wegovy remotely, following a thorough virtual consultation.

Regardless of the method chosen, the healthcare professional will review the patient’s medical history, current health status, and weight management goals to determine if Wegovy is an appropriate treatment option. They will also discuss potential side effects, risks, and the importance of combining the medication with lifestyle modifications for optimal results.

How can I find out if a pharmacy has Wegovy in stock?

To find out if a pharmacy has Wegovy in stock, you can try several approaches:

1. Call pharmacies directly: Contact local pharmacies, including larger chain pharmacies like Walgreens, CVS, Target, or RiteAid, to inquire about Wegovy availability. It’s recommended to call at least 1-2 weeks before you need a refill.
2. Use online pharmacy locators: Websites like GoodRx can help you locate pharmacies in your area and may provide information on Wegovy availability.
3. Check with online pharmacies: Larger online pharmacies such as Amazon Pharmacy, Walgreens.com, CVS.com, and RiteAid.com may have more extensive inventories and can deliver medications to your door.
4. Utilize supply tracking tools: Telehealth company Ro has introduced a free GLP-1 Supply Tracker that allows users to report when they find pharmacies with Wegovy in stock. The tool also provides automated alerts when the medication becomes available in your area.
5. Consult your healthcare provider: Your doctor or healthcare provider may have information on local pharmacies that typically stock Wegovy or can suggest alternatives if it’s unavailable.
6. Check the manufacturer’s website: Novo Nordisk’s website may provide updates on Wegovy supply and availability.
7. Explore different dosage strengths: Due to supply constraints, certain dosage strengths (particularly 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, and 1 mg) may be more difficult to find than others (1.7 mg and 2.4 mg).
8. Consider transferring prescriptions: If your regular pharmacy can’t fill your Wegovy prescription, you may be able to transfer it to another pharmacy that has it in stock.

Remember that Wegovy supply can be limited, and availability may vary. It’s advisable to start your search early and be prepared to contact multiple pharmacies. If you’re unable to find Wegovy, consult your healthcare provider about alternative options or treatment plans.