A look at substitute options for Wegovy in the market.
Affordable Oral Alternative to Wegovy for Weight Loss: Contrave
In the realm of weight loss medications, Contrave stands out as an oral extended-release tablet that offers a more affordable alternative to the injectable Wegovy. This prescription drug, which combines naltrexone and bupropion, is currently available without generic alternatives and is proving to be a popular choice for many seeking to manage their weight.
The typical retail cost of Contrave without insurance ranges from around $199 to $500-$600 per month, depending on the pharmacy and discounts used. However, the manufacturer offers a home delivery program that provides Contrave for $99 or less per month with free shipping, subject to patient eligibility and insurance coverage. Medicare Part D, Medicaid, and TRICARE patients can also access this program, though prescriptions are processed as cash-paying customers for discount benefits.
In comparison, Wegovy, an injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist, costs approximately $1,300 to $1,400 per dose without insurance. While insurance coverage for Wegovy varies, it can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Contrave's affordability is not the only advantage; it is also widely accessible and more readily procured than some newer injectable alternatives. The medication's unique oral extended-release formulation, with no available generics, maintains its position as an alternative to Wegovy for chronic weight management.
| Aspect | Contrave | Wegovy | |-----------------------|-----------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------| | Formulation | Oral extended-release tablet | Once-weekly injectable | | Active Ingredients | Naltrexone + bupropion | Semaglutide (GLP-1 receptor agonist) | | Cost without insurance | $199 to $600/month; manufacturer program offers ≤$99/month with shipping | $1,300-$1,400 per dose | | Insurance coverage | Varies; may be partially or fully covered, with manufacturer copay programs | Varies; insurance can reduce significant costs | | Availability | Widely available, no current shortages | Some injectable weight-loss medications have past shortages but Wegovy availability improving |
It's important to note that, like all weight loss medications, Contrave is not a magic pill and should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, and excessive sweating. As with any prescription medication, it's crucial to discuss the potential benefits and risks with a healthcare provider.
While Contrave is a significant step forward in the battle against obesity, it's not the only option available. Other weight loss medications include Saxenda, Orlistat, Alli, Contrave, Qsymia, and Mounjaro, each with its unique properties and considerations. A person should speak with a doctor about available options to determine the best one for their needs.
[1] Contrave Prescribing Information. Retrieved from https://www.contrave.com/prescribing-information [3] Contrave Savings Program. Retrieved from https://www.contrave.com/savings [5] Contrave Cost. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/contrave
- Many switchers in the health-and-wellness field are choosing Contrave over Wegovy for weight loss, as it offers an affordable oral extended-release tablet without generic alternatives.
- For those seeking treatment for obesity, Contrave, with a typical retail cost ranging from $199 to $500-$600 per month, might be a more budget-friendly option compared to Wegovy's approximate $1,300 to $1,400 per dose.
- Science has proven that Contrave, comprising naltrexone and bupropion, is a popular choice among weight loss seekers, thanks to its unique oral extended-release formulation and the manufacturer's home delivery program, offering Contrave for $99 or less per month with free shipping.
- Weight loss seekers should be aware that while Contrave provides significant advantages, it comes with side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and excessive sweating; comprehensive discussions regarding potential benefits and risks with health providers are essential.
- As the search for effective weight-management options continues, health providers and GLP-related science research will likely uncover more weight loss treatments like Contrave, Anthrax, and others such as Saxenda, Orlistat, Alli, Qsymia, and Mounjaro.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, weight loss seekers are advised to engage in thorough discussions with their healthcare providers about available weight loss therapies, including Contrave, as each treatment option has its individual properties and considerations.
