If you're researching Semaglutide for weight loss, you're in the right place. I've been prescribing it for years at The Pur Health in Irvine, and I've seen it work for hundreds of patients.

But I need to be upfront with you about something important.

While Semaglutide (sold as Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss) is still an excellent medication, we've found something that consistently delivers better results for our patients: Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

Let me explain both options so you can make an informed decision. I'll cover everything about Semaglutide—the costs, dosing, and results—because that's probably what brought you here. But I'd be doing you a disservice if I didn't also tell you about what's working even better in our practice.

What is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. In plain English, it mimics a hormone your body naturally produces that tells your brain you're full and helps regulate blood sugar.

It was originally developed for type 2 diabetes (that's Ozempic), but researchers noticed patients were losing significant weight. So they created a higher-dose version specifically for weight loss called Wegovy.

Both are the same medication—semaglutide—just different doses and FDA approvals.

How Semaglutide Works for Weight Loss

When you inject Semaglutide once weekly, several things happen:

Your appetite drops dramatically. Most patients tell me they're just not hungry anymore. Food that used to be irresistible becomes easy to pass up.

You feel full faster. A meal that used to require a full plate now satisfies you with half that amount.

Your blood sugar stabilizes. Less rollercoaster energy means fewer cravings and crashes.

Your metabolism improves. Your body becomes more efficient at using stored fat for energy.

The result? Consistent, steady weight loss without feeling like you're starving yourself.

Semaglutide Cost: What You'll Actually Pay

This is probably one of your biggest questions. Let me break down the real costs you'll face:

Brand Name Pricing

Wegovy (FDA-approved for weight loss): $850 or so per month without insurance. That's nearly $10,200 per year. Patients can use manufacturer coupons.

Ozempic (FDA-approved for diabetes): $900-1,200 per month without insurance when prescribed off-label for weight loss.

Some insurance plans cover Ozempic & Mounjaro if you have diabetes, but coverage for weight loss is rare, but increasing. Wegovy has slightly better insurance coverage, but most plans still don't cover it or have restrictive requirements.

Compounded Semaglutide Pricing

This is where it becomes more accessible. Compounded Semaglutide used to cost a lot less through compounded pharmacies. However FDA has banned the production of compounded GLP-1. Labs manufacture for specific use cases only. Patients shall exercise caution when buying on price only as it is something that will be injected in your body and it will impact your wellbeing. Uncontrolled impurities exist and Groupon is full of advertisements offering these products below cost. We often ask and educate patients when such questions arise. It is a matter of being in the know.

At The Pur Health: We DO NOT offer compounded Semaglutide as it violates the law.

Compounded GLP-1's do cost less than brand name prices, however recent adjustments from brand name manufacturers target making these medications more affordable. Coupons are offered and insurance coverage has increased. Patients should talk to the primary care provider. At The Pur Health we do accept most insurance plans, so it is worth checking if you qualify under your plan. This benefit is offered based on the plan your employer offers and if they have opted in.

What Affects Your Cost

Your actual monthly cost depends on:

• Your dose (2.4mg costs more than 1mg)
• Brand name vs. compounded (huge price difference)
• Your insurance (may or may not cover weight loss)
• Ongoing monitoring (our consultation fees)

All of our patients receive brand name drugs only.

Semaglutide Dosing: The Standard Protocol

Here's how we typically dose Semaglutide for weight loss (we follow very similar path for Mounjaro as well):

Month 1: 0.25mg once weekly
This is the "let your body adjust" phase. Don't expect major weight loss yet.

Month 2: 0.5mg once weekly
You'll start noticing decreased appetite and some weight loss.

Month 3: 1mg once weekly
This is where most patients see consistent results kicking in.

Month 4: 1.7mg once weekly
Many patients stay at this dose and see excellent results.

Month 5+: 2.4mg once weekly
The maximum dose for weight loss. Not everyone needs to go this high.

The gradual increase helps minimize side effects, particularly nausea. Some patients stay at lower doses if they're getting good results and tolerating it well.

Semaglutide Results: What to Expect

Let me give you realistic expectations based on what I've seen in my practice:

Average Weight Loss Timeline

Month 1: 3-6 pounds
Mostly water weight and initial changes. Don't judge the medication by month one.

Month 3: 10-15 pounds
You're at therapeutic doses now. Clothes fit differently. Energy improves.

Month 6: 20-30 pounds
This is where people really start noticing. You might need new clothes.

Month 12: 30-45 pounds
Clinical trials show about 15-20% total body weight loss at one year.

So if you start at 200 pounds, you might be at 165-170 pounds after a year. That's legitimate, life-changing weight loss.

What Affects Your Results

Not everyone loses the same amount. Your results depend on:

• Starting weight (heavier patients often lose more initially)
• Diet quality (medication isn't magic—nutrition still matters)
• Activity level (moving helps significantly)
• Sleep and stress (huge factors people overlook)
• Genetics and metabolism (some people respond better)
• Consistency (skipping doses kills momentum)

The best results I see are in patients who use Semaglutide as a tool alongside lifestyle changes, not as a replacement for them.

Side Effects: The Reality Check

Let's talk about what you'll actually experience:

Common Side Effects (Happens to Most Patients)

Nausea: Especially in the first few weeks and when increasing doses. Usually manageable. Ginger tea and small meals help.

Decreased appetite: This is sort of the point, but some patients report TOO much appetite suppression. You still need to eat adequate nutrition.

Constipation or diarrhea: GI changes are common. Stay hydrated. Add fiber gradually.

Fatigue initially: First couple weeks can be rough. Energy usually improves after that.

Less Common But Possible

Injection site reactions: Redness, itching, or lumps. Usually mild. Rotate injection sites.

Acid reflux: Some patients develop or worsen heartburn.

Gallbladder issues: Rapid weight loss can increase gallstone risk.

Pancreatitis: Rare but serious. Stop medication and call immediately if you have severe abdominal pain.

Most side effects are mild and temporary. The nausea that feels unbearable in week two usually disappears by week four.

Why We're Transitioning to Mounjaro

Here's where I need to be honest with you.

Semaglutide works. I've prescribed it for years with good results. But I have also offered Mounjaro to my patients during the same period. Based on the results from patients and the cost benefit, we made the decision to switch to Mounjaro (tirzepatide) only, and the difference has been striking.

The Results We're Actually Seeing

With Semaglutide: Patients typically lose 15-20% of body weight over a year.

With Mounjaro: We're consistently seeing 20-25% weight loss, with some patients hitting 30%.

That might not sound like a huge difference, but it is. For a patient starting at 200 pounds:

• Semaglutide: Gets them to 160-170 pounds
• Mounjaro: Gets them to 150-160 pounds

Those extra 10-15 pounds matter. A lot.

Why Mounjaro Works Better

Semaglutide works on one pathway (GLP-1). Mounjaro works on two (GLP-1 and GIP). Think of it like having two keys to unlock weight loss instead of one.

In practice, this means:

Better appetite control. Patients on Mounjaro report less "food noise"—fewer thoughts about eating, less preoccupation with meals.

Faster results. Weight loss tends to start sooner and continue more consistently.

Better tolerability. Surprisingly, most patients switching from Semaglutide to Mounjaro report fewer side effects, not more.

More weight loss. On average, 5-10 more pounds lost compared to Semaglutide.

The Cost Comparison

Here's the surprising part: Mounjaro costs less than Semaglutide.

Compounded Semaglutide at The Pur Health: NOT OFFERED

Brand name Mounjaro at The Pur Health: $250-$800/month

When compared with Ozempic, at a lower cost per month, you're getting noticeably better results and brandname product. Most patients consider that money well spent.

Semaglutide vs. Mounjaro: The Head-to-Head

Let me lay this out clearly (Semaglutide vs. Mounjaro/ Zepbound)

Mechanism:

GLP-1 only. vs. GLP-1 + GIP (dual action)
Average Weight Loss:

15-20% body weight vs 20-25%

FDA Approval:

Yes for both

Typical Monthly Cost:

$900 or so vs. $250-$850 or so

Side Efforts:

Moderate vs. typically less

Injection Frequency:

Once weekly for both. Dosing is patient based and medically controlled & monitored based on patient.

Track Record:

2021 approval vs. 2022 approval

Clinical Experience & Outcome:

Good option vs. Preferred by most patients

When I Still Recommend Semaglutide

Semaglutide isn't obsolete. There are situations where it makes more sense:

You have diabetes. Semaglutide (Ozempic) is FDA-approved for diabetes and might have better insurance coverage.

You prefer the longer track record. Semaglutide has been around longer if that makes you more comfortable.

You had a bad experience with Mounjaro. Some people don't tolerate dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists well.

But if you're asking me which I'd choose for myself or my family? Mounjaro, without question.

How to Get Started at The Pur Health

Whether you decide on Semaglutide or Mounjaro, here's our process:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Schedule a consultation at our Irvine office. We'll spend about 30 minutes reviewing:

• Your weight loss history
• Current health conditions
• Medications you're taking
• Your goals and timeline
• Which medication makes sense for you

Step 2: Medical Evaluation

We'll check:

• Current weight and BMI
• Blood pressure
• Lab work if needed (we can order this)
• Make sure there are no contraindications

Step 3: Choose Your Medication

Based on our discussion, we'll recommend either:

• Semaglutide or
• Mounjaro or
• Zepbound or
• Wegovy

All of our patients are on brnndmane only. FDA has banned the production of generic GLP's and it is only allowed under very strict guidelines making it prohibitive for general clinical use. Patients should educate themselves and do proper research. These medications are expensive so when sold below the cost it is questionable.

Step 4: Learn to Inject

Both are offered as pens and they come with instructions. It's easier than you think. You'll use a small insulin needle to inject subcutaneously (under the skin) once weekly. Takes 30 seconds once you get the hang of it. For patients who are on monitored program at our clinic, we inject in the clinic. It is a comprehensive weight loss program for the patients and our patients love how easy it is to get in and out - even if they show up without an appointment, we accommodate.

Step 5: Start Treatment

Your first injection can happen the same day or within a few days once your medication arrives from the pharmacy, if covered by your insurance. For patients paying out of pocket we offer monitored program and very affordable cost.

Step 6: Regular Monitoring

We see you regularly to:

• Track your progress
• Adjust dosing
• Manage any side effects
• Celebrate your wins

Real Patient Stories

Let me tell you about Jennifer. (Not her real name, and yes I am not sharing the exact numbers but these are very close to the actuals.)

Jennifer came to us wanting Semaglutide. She'd done her research, knew what she wanted. We started her on Semaglutide, and she did well—lost 22 pounds in about four months.

But she'd plateaued. Still had 30 pounds to go. I suggested we switch to Mounjaro.

Within two months on Mounjaro, she'd lost an additional 18 pounds. The weight that wouldn't budge on Semaglutide started coming off again. By month nine, she'd hit her goal weight.

She told me later she wished we'd started with Mounjaro from the beginning.

That conversation happens more than you'd think.

The Questions Everyone Asks

"How long do I need to stay on it?"
Most patients use medication for 12-18 months to reach their goal weight. Then we discuss either staying on a low maintenance dose or tapering off slowly. Stopping abruptly usually leads to regain.

"What if I don't lose weight?"
It's rare but happens. If you're not losing after 3-4 months at therapeutic doses, we reassess. Maybe switch medications. Maybe look for underlying issues.

"Can I switch from Semaglutide to Mounjaro?"
Absolutely. Many of our patients have made this switch. We transition you carefully to minimize side effects.

"Will my insurance cover it?"
For weight loss, probably not. Some plans cover Semaglutide (Ozempic) or Mounjaro if you have diabetes. This is why we focus on affordable compounded options.

"Do I need to follow a specific diet?"
No strict meal plan. We teach principles: high protein, plenty of vegetables, moderate healthy fats. The medication makes this easier by reducing your appetite naturally.

"What happens when I stop?"
Some weight regain is possible. This is why we don't stop abruptly. We either keep you on a maintenance dose long-term or taper very slowly while building sustainable habits.

"Are the compounded versions safe?"
Yes. We only work with FDA-registered 503B compounding facilities. Same active ingredient as brand names, just different delivery method (vials vs. pre-filled pens).

My Professional Opinion

I've been prescribing weight loss medications for over 15 years. I've seen a lot of different treatments come and go.

Semaglutide was a game-changer when it came out. It's still an excellent medication. I'm not saying it doesn't work.

But Mounjaro is better. The data shows it. My clinical experience confirms it. My patients' results prove it.

If you came to my office today asking about weight loss medication, I'd explain both options honestly. I'd tell you Semaglutide is proven and effective. And I'd tell you Mounjaro typically produces better results for about the same cost.

Most patients choose Mounjaro after hearing the comparison. Some still prefer Semaglutide for various reasons, and that's fine too.

The important thing is you're taking action. Whether you choose Semaglutide or Mounjaro, you're making a real commitment to your health. Both medications work. One just works a bit better.

What Makes Our Approach Different

Some providers are basically medication dispensaries. Fill out a form online, get your prescription, good luck.

That's not how we do things at The Pur Health.

You see an actual physician. Me. With real medical training and 15+ years of experience.

We monitor you closely. Regular check-ins. Labs when needed. Dose adjustments based on your response.

We're local. We're in Irvine. You can walk into our office if you have concerns. You're not dealing with some faceless online pharmacy.

We're invested in your success. This isn't transactional medicine. We're with you for the whole journey.

Is this more expensive than ordering online? Maybe slightly. Is it worth it? Ask the patient who came to us after a bad reaction to meds from an online provider with nobody to call for help.

Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?

If you're in Irvine, Orange County, or anywhere in Southern California, I'd be happy to meet with you.

We'll discuss both Semaglutide and Mounjaro. We'll review your medical history. We'll figure out which medication makes the most sense for your situation.

And we'll create a plan to help you finally reach your weight loss goals.

The Pur Health
114 Pacifica, Suite 280, Irvine CA 92618
📞 (949) 647-5234
🌐 www.thepurhealth.com

Call us or book online. Initial consultations take about 30 minutes.

Let's figure out which medication is right for you.

Dr. Sabeen Munib is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician specializing in medical weight loss and integrative aesthetics. She has over 15 years of experience helping patients achieve sustainable weight loss at The Pur Health in Irvine, California.

Frequently Asked Questions About Semaglutide and Mounjaro

How much does Semaglutide cost per month?

At The Pur Health, Mounjaro costs $250-$800 per month depending on your dose. We only use the Original Brand Name product. FDA has banned the manufacturing of computed products and as such patients should educated as to what is being injected in their body. These products can be harmful.

What's the difference between Ozempic and Wegovy?

Both are Semaglutide, just different doses and FDA approvals. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes (up to 2mg dose). Wegovy is approved specifically for weight loss (up to 2.4mg dose). The active ingredient is identical.

How much weight can I lose on Semaglutide?

Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15-20% over 12 months. In our practice, patients typically lose 30-45 pounds if starting at 200 pounds. Individual results vary based on starting weight, diet, exercise, and consistency.

Is Mounjaro better than Semaglutide?

Based on clinical data and our practice experience, yes. Mounjaro typically produces 20-25% weight loss compared to Semaglutide's 15-20%. It works on two hormone pathways instead of one. Most patients report better appetite control and faster results.

Can I switch from Semaglutide to Mounjaro?

Absolutely. Many of our patients have made this transition successfully. We handle the switch carefully to minimize side effects and maximize your results.

What are the side effects of Semaglutide?

Most common: nausea (especially when starting or increasing dose), constipation or diarrhea, decreased appetite, and mild injection site reactions. Most side effects are temporary and manageable. Serious side effects like pancreatitis are rare.

Do I inject myself?

Yes. We teach you how during your first visit. You'll inject once weekly using a small needle, similar to insulin injections. Most patients are comfortable after their first or second injection. It takes about 30 seconds.

Will insurance cover Semaglutide for weight loss?

Usually not. Some plans cover Ozempic if you have diabetes, but weight loss coverage is rare even for FDA-approved Wegovy. This is why we focus on affordable compounded options that don't require insurance.

How long does Semaglutide stay in your system?

Semaglutide has a half-life of about one week, which is why you inject it weekly. If you stop taking it, it takes several weeks to fully clear your system. This is also why stopping suddenly often leads to rapid weight regain.

Can I take Semaglutide if I have [medical condition]?

Maybe. I need to evaluate your specific situation. Semaglutide is generally safe, but there are contraindications: personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2, or severe pancreatitis history. Schedule a consultation for proper medical evaluation.

What's the starting dose of Semaglutide?

We start at 0.25mg once weekly for the first month. This helps your body adjust and minimizes side effects. We gradually increase over several months, typically reaching 1.7-2.4mg as your maintenance dose.

Do I need to exercise on Semaglutide?

Exercise isn't required for weight loss on Semaglutide, but you'll get better results with it. I recommend at least 30 minutes of movement most days. Strength training 2-3 times weekly helps preserve muscle mass as you lose fat.

How much does Mounjaro cost at The Pur Health?

Through our vial program, compounded Mounjaro costs $300-500 per month depending on dose. Brand name Zepbound costs $1,300-1,500 monthly. The compounded version offers the same effectiveness at a fraction of the price.

What if the medication doesn't work for me?

It's rare, but some people don't respond well to GLP-1 medications. If you're not seeing results after 3-4 months at therapeutic doses, we reassess your situation. We might try a different medication, adjust your approach, or investigate underlying metabolic issues.

Will I gain weight back when I stop?

Some regain is possible, which is why we don't stop abruptly. We either keep you on a low maintenance dose long-term, or we taper very slowly while helping you build sustainable habits. Patients who work on lifestyle changes during treatment maintain their loss better.