Weight Watchers® GLP-1 Program: What You Need to Know
So, you’ve decided to explore GLP-1 weight-loss medications like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®). You might be wondering how to get started.
One option is through the WW -previously Weight Watchers- GLP-1 Program—but how does it work? What services do they offer? And is it worth it?
I went through the process myself, and I’ll break it all down for you so you can decide if it’s the right fit for you.
WW GLP-1 Program: What to Expect
Phase 1: Getting Started (1–2 months)
When you join WW’s GLP-1 Program, you’ll be assigned a care team coordinator to guide you through the process.
Step 1: Get Your Treatment Plan
What to Expect:
- Fill out a medical history form and upload your recent lab results.
- If you don’t have lab work, WW can help you get it done. Labs are included in your membership.
- A clinician (doctor or nurse practitioner) will review your medical history, determine if you qualify for weight-loss medication, and create a treatment plan with a few options.
Everything is done through a secure chat. Responses can take up to two business days, which may slow things down.
The Treatment Plan
You’ll have a few treatment options, including the latest GLP-1 receptor agonists: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound. However, there are also other weight-loss medications to consider.
This is already a big step, as some primary care doctors may not feel comfortable discussing and prescribing these medications since they’re not obesity specialists.
Step 2: Getting Insurance Approval
If you decide on one of the medications mentioned above, the next step is to submit a pre-authorization form to your insurance company before your clinician can write the prescription. If you choose an alternative plan, you might skip this process.
Your care coordinator will guide you through the process and keep you updated. It normally takes about 1-2 weeks. You will need to provide your health insurance card.
This part can be tricky, as many insurance plans only cover semaglutide and tirzepatide for diabetes, not for weight loss.
If insurance approves your semaglutide or tirzepatide:
- Your clinician will write the prescription and you can pick up your medication at your pharmacy of choice. Coverage and co-pays are determined by your insurance.
If insurance denies it:
- You can pay out of pocket (both Wegovy and Zepbound can cost over $1000 a month). However, you can get savings cards from either Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly to help you decrease the cost of your medications.
- WW offers compounded semaglutide at a lower price ($189–$400 per month).
- You can choose another alternative from your treatment plan.
My care coordinator gave me a price list for the different medications, making it easier to understand my choices.
What is Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded medications are made in compound pharmacies when there’s a medication shortage. It’s not the same as a generic drug. Generic drugs are fully FDA-approved non-branded versions of known medications. Compounded drugs, on the other hand, are not examined by the FDA.
At this time, there are no generic versions of semaglutide or tirzepatide. The FDA may require compounding pharmacies to stop making these medications once the shortage is resolved.
Important note: As of February 2025, compounded tirzepatide is no longer available because Mounjaro and Zepbound are in full supply.
Alternative Weight Loss Medications
While semaglutide and tirzepatide are the most effective options for weight loss (15–21% of initial body weight), they’re not the only ones available. You will see different options on your treatment plan, and some may even be included in the cost of your Weight Watchers membership.
Step 3: Choosing Your Treatment
Now that you have all your options, you’ll choose a treatment from the plan, and the clinician will write your prescription.
Once your prescription is ready, you have options:
- Pick it up at your pharmacy of choice if you selected Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro or Zepbound.
- Receive it by mail if you’re using WW’s compounded version or alternative medications.
Orientation
During this phase, I recommend you attend orientation. While it is mostly focused on nutrition and physical activity, it can help to understand the process. Now, compared to the regular WW orientation, orientation for the GLP-1 program runs much less frequently, making it much more difficult to attend.
However, all the information you need can be found on your app.
Phase 2: Weight Loss (3–12 months)
Now that you’re on the medication, WW provides support to help you reach your goals.
Key Features of WW GLP-1 Program:
- Clinician check-ins to adjust your prescription as needed or help you manage side effects.
- Personalized support for nutrition and exercise to make weight loss sustainable.
- Care coordinator available to answer any questions and help you utilize the resources available.
- WW app with a food tracker, community support, and helpful articles.
The WW App
The Clinic
By now, you’ve probably gotten used to the clinic section of the app—it’s where you’ll keep in touch with your care team.
In this section, you can also log any side effects, track your weight and fitness, and message your care team when needed. You’ll also find lessons and group events to support your journey.
Personally, I found this part of the app easy to use.
Tracking Tool
WW’s tracking focuses on protein, fruits, vegetables, and water, rather than the traditional points system. This aligns with the approach I take with my clients as a dietitian working with GLP-1 users, although I also emphasize fiber from all sources rather than focusing on fruits and vegetables.
You will also see your macronutrients in this section.
Meeting with a Registered Dietitian
WW partners with Berry Street to offer insurance-based dietitian visits.
However, this is not an exclusive WW GLP-1 program; you can also book a registered dietitian directly on Berry Street.
You can book an appointment with me through the platform, and there are also many other great dietitians available for you to choose from.
Meeting with a Fitness Coach
WW provides fitness plans to help you lose weight and maintain muscle mass while you do it.
Support Groups
WW offers groups for different needs, including:
- People losing 100+ pounds
- Perimenopause & menopause support
- Nutrition & fitness focus
However, compared to the regular WW meetings, there are fewer support groups available, and I found it difficult to fit them into my schedule. While these specialized groups can be valuable, I personally found the regular WW meetings more accessible and helpful.
Phase 3: Maintenance (12+ months)
Long-term support helps you maintain your weight loss. Your clinician will evaluate your needs, and you’ll continue receiving resources and guidance.
How Much Does the WW GLP-1 Program Cost?
Pricing depends on what services you use. If you’re only using WW’s clinic and getting medications elsewhere, costs will be lower than if you’re purchasing compounded medications from them.
My Thoughts
WW’s program makes accessing GLP-1 medications easier and more streamlined, combining prescription services, dietitian support, tracking tools, and a built-in community.
Pros:
- Convenient access to prescriptions and support
- Help submitting the pre-authorization form to your insurance
- Nutrition & exercise guidance
- Helpful tracking tools & community
Cons:
- Slow response times from clinicians and care team
- Cost
You don’t need WW to get a GLP-1 prescription—you can see your doctor instead. You can also book a dietitian directly without being part of WW.
But if you want an all-in-one system with support, it could be a good option for you.
