GLP-1 Dose Escalation: How Costs Change Over Time

Why GLP-1s Require Titration

GLP-1 medications start at low doses and gradually increase to minimize side effects like nausea. This "titration" period typically takes 4-5 months before you reach the maintenance dose where maximum weight loss occurs.

Understanding this timeline helps you budget accurately—you're not just paying for one month, but committing to several months of escalating treatment.

Wegovy (Semaglutide) Titration Schedule

Wegovy Cost to Maintenance (NovoCare Self-Pay)

Month	Dose	NovoCare Price	Cumulative
1	0.25mg	$199	$199
2	0.5mg	$199	$398
3	1mg	$349	$747
4	1.7mg	$349	$1,096
5+	2.4mg (maintenance)	$349	$1,445

Total cost to reach maintenance: ~$1,445 over 5 months

Zepbound (Tirzepatide) Titration Schedule

Tirzepatide has a longer titration period with more dose steps:

Month	Dose	LillyDirect Vials	Cumulative
1	2.5mg	$299	$299
2	5mg	$399	$698
3	7.5mg	$449	$1,147
4	10mg	$449	$1,596
5	12.5mg	$449	$2,045
6+	15mg (max)	$449	$2,494

Total cost to reach maximum dose: ~$2,494 over 6 months

Compounded GLP-1 Dose Pricing

Unlike brand medications (which cost the same at any dose), some compounded providers charge more for higher doses:

Dose Range	Typical Compounded Price
Low doses (0.25-0.5mg semaglutide)	$149-179/mo
Medium doses (1-1.7mg semaglutide)	$179-249/mo
High doses (2-2.4mg semaglutide)	$249-299/mo

This means your compounded costs may increase as you titrate up—something to factor into your budget.

Budget Planning Tips

1. Plan for 5-6 months minimum. Don't expect major results in month 1. The first few months are about building up to an effective dose.

2. Ask about dose-based pricing. If using compounded, confirm whether price increases at higher doses.

3. Take advantage of intro pricing. NovoCare's $199 intro price for the first 2 fills provides real savings during titration.

4. Consider your long-term budget. GLP-1s are typically used long-term. Make sure the maintenance dose price is sustainable for you.