The hidden costs of
GLP-1 medications

The monthly price quoted on a pharmacy's website is rarely the full cost of GLP-1 medication. Several factors can add significantly to what you actually pay — or change the effective price in ways that make direct comparisons between pharmacies misleading. Here is what to account for.

Consultation fees

Some pharmacies include the cost of the initial clinical consultation in their headline price. Others charge it separately — typically between £20 and £50. Most online providers bundle the consultation into the medication cost, but it is worth confirming this before you order, particularly if you are switching providers and expecting not to pay a second consultation fee.

Needles and supplies

Mounjaro and Wegovy pens come with needles included. Saxenda does not — needles must be purchased separately. If you are comparing Saxenda prices, confirm whether needles are included in the quoted price. Standard pen needles (4mm, 32 gauge) typically cost around £5–£12 per box of 100, and you will need one per daily injection.

Dose escalation and cost progression

The price you pay changes as your dose increases. Most pharmacies quote a starting price based on the lowest dose. At maintenance doses, the cost is typically significantly higher. For Mounjaro, the difference between the starting dose (2.5mg) and the maintenance dose (10–15mg) can be £100–£200 per month more. When comparing pharmacies, always check the price at the dose you expect to be on long-term, not just the introductory dose.

Delivery charges

Most major online providers offer free delivery as standard. Some charge for express or next-day delivery. Cold-chain delivery (required for these medications, which must be kept at 2–8°C) is typically handled by specialist couriers. Confirm delivery charges before placing an order if cost sensitivity is a factor.

Subscription vs one-off pricing

Some providers offer lower per-dose prices if you commit to a 3-month or 6-month plan upfront. This can represent genuine savings but introduces cancellation considerations. Check the cancellation policy carefully before committing to a longer plan — most reputable providers allow cancellation, but the terms vary.

Stopping and restarting

If you stop taking a GLP-1 medication and then restart, most providers require you to begin again at the starting dose and re-escalate. This means several months at lower doses before reaching your previous maintenance dose — at a lower per-month cost during that period, but with a longer path to the therapeutic dose you were on.

Support services included in the price

Some providers include coaching, app access, health monitoring, or dedicated clinical support as part of their price. Others provide the medication only. This makes direct price comparison more complex. A provider charging £20/month more than a competitor but including weekly dietitian check-ins is not necessarily more expensive on a value basis. Consider what level of support you need when comparing.