The regulatory distinction
FDA-approved medicines have been evaluated by the agency for safety, effectiveness, and quality for their approved use. Compounded medicines are not FDA-approved and the FDA does not verify their safety, effectiveness, or quality before marketing. Compounding can serve patient-specific needs in defined circumstances, but it should not be presented as a generic equivalent.
Why brand prices vary
Cash prices for Wegovy and Zepbound can vary by dose, delivery device, manufacturer program, pharmacy channel, or temporary offer. Telehealth companies may pass through a manufacturer price and add a separate fee for clinical care, insurance navigation, coaching, or app access.
Why compounded prices vary
Compounded programs may price by dose, formulation, pharmacy, state, or commitment. Some bundle care and shipping. Others add a recurring membership. Individualized dosing can also make a simple milligram-to-milligram comparison misleading.
A better decision frame
Compare total cost, medication category, formulation, dose schedule, prescriber access, pharmacy information, follow-up, shipping, commitment, and refund terms. Then take those facts to the licensed clinician responsible for determining whether any treatment is appropriate.
Where the numbers come from
We use publicly accessible provider-owned pricing pages and preserve the condition attached to each figure. See the full methodology, source list, and current provider comparison.