Why your GLP-1 price goes up after month two
Almost every program prices medication by dose, and doses rise on a schedule. This guide shows the typical schedule and what it does to your monthly bill.
The dose schedule
GLP-1 medications start low and increase over the first months to reduce side effects. Semaglutide typically starts at 0.25 mg a week and reaches 1.7 mg or 2.4 mg by month four or five. Tirzepatide starts at 2.5 mg and reaches 10 mg to 15 mg over a similar period.
How providers price it
With most providers the medication price is set per dose tier. The advertised "from" price is the starter dose. Examples from the comparison table:
- Mochi Health: compounded semaglutide from $60 a month at starter doses, with higher tiers above.
- Henry Meds: $297 a month standard, up to $397 at high dose.
- Ivim Health: compounded tirzepatide from $133 a month, up to $599 at high dose.
- Hims & Hers and Ro Body: brand-name Wegovy pens $199 at low doses, $349 to $399 above.
A few providers charge one flat price regardless of dose. Where we found one, the table says "flat" in the "rises with dose" column.
What to budget
Take the provider's price at the dose you are likely to reach by month four, not the starter price, and add the membership. That is your realistic monthly cost for most of the first year. For a brand-name program at a maintenance dose plus a $149 membership, that can be $500 a month or more; for a compounded program with a low membership, $150 to $300.
Prepay plans
Six- and twelve-month prepay plans lower the per-month price by 15 to 35 percent. They also lock you in. Check the refund terms before paying ahead, and whether the prepay price is tied to a dose tier.
Last reviewed October 15, 2026. Information, not medical advice.