Costco's weight loss program featuring GLP-1 medications has garnered significant attention for its competitive pricing and comprehensive support through a collaboration with SesameCare. While creating a lot of buzz in the media, we found many user and provider complaints when it comes to the program's structure as well as its long-term support. Though Costco members might receive a discount for getting GLP-1 script with Sesame, non-Costco members can also access this program.
It is important to note that Costco Ozempic weightloss program does not include the drug cost. Our analysis of Reddit user reviews found a very lackluster experience, specifically in the high variability in dosage prescribed.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Cost/Pricing | 1/5 |
| User Satisfaction | 1/5 |
| Quality | 3/5 |
| Legitimacy | 2/5 |
| On-going Support | 2/5 |
| Total Score | 1.8/5 |
How Does Costco Weight Loss Program Work?
Subscription Cost
Costco’s online weight loss program is managed by Sesame and operates on a subscription model that renews every three months at a cost of $179 (equivalent to $60 per month). The program includes:
- A video consultation with a weight loss doctor or specialist.
- A GLP-1 prescription if clinically appropriate.
- Insurance coordination for medication coverage.
- Unlimited messaging with the chosen provider.
Exclusions
It's crucial to note that the program fee does not include the cost of medication. GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda can be particularly pricey, ranging from $950 to $1,600 per month if uninsured.
What is SesameCare?
Sesame Care is a healthcare marketplace connecting cash-pay patients to providers at an upfront rate ranging from $35-$100 per visit depending on the specialty.
How Much Does Ozempic/GLP-1 Cost With Costco?
Costco uses a member prescription program where medications like Ozempic (0.25 or 0.5 mg/dose) are priced at $961.99 per unit. Compared to other providers, this pricing is relatively competitive but still represents a substantial out-of-pocket cost, making insurance coverage highly desirable.
Participating Locations
- Members can access the program at participating pharmacies associated with Costco's network. These locations include Costco pharmacy outlets and other partnered local pharmacies.
- It’s vital for members to verify the availability by contacting local Costco pharmacies listed under the CMPP since participating pharmacies are subject to change without notice.
Membership Requirements
To utilize the savings on Ozempic and other prescriptions, users must:
- Be a current Costco member.
- Present their membership card at the time of prescription purchase.
- Ensure that their prescriptions are filled at participating pharmacies.
Can I get compound GLP-1 with Costco/Sesame program?
Our investigation found that though the medication is available via Costco. Providers who participate on this program via SesameCare often offer their own compounded version via an external pharmacy with ranging from $250-$500/month.
There is no standard on which compound pharmacy can be used across providers or if they are accredited by a certain body. Sesame seems to let provider run their compound weight loss program outside of the platform.
What Medications Available Via CostCo Ozempic Program?
The GLP-1 medications provided under this program include:
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Saxenda (liraglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Shortages and Availability
Due to high demand, the FDA has reported shortages for these medications, with expected limited availability through parts of 2024. Providers working with Sesame are tasked with navigating these shortages by coordinating with insurance for alternative medications or cash pay prices for available medications
Reddit Reviews of Costco's Ozempic Program
User Insights
- Specific_Foundation shared a positive experience with Costco's Ozempic program, stating that from signing up to receiving the medication took only 11 days. The user highlighted that BCBS initially denied Wegovy, but approved Ozempic quickly, praising the program's efficiency and support .
- Nieouz, another user, found the flexibility in dosing with Ozempic beneficial. They mentioned that their husband has been on the 2MG/0.74ML pens for several months, but only takes 50 clicks worth (around 1.35MG), and might increase the dosage gradually. This implies that users can easily adjust their doses according to their needs and reduce potential side effects .
Program Benefits
- Convenient Process: Many users found the sign-up and medication receipt process smooth and efficient. The telehealth consultations and rapid medication delivery were frequently praised.
- Weight Loss Success: Several users reported significant weight loss after starting the program. For instance, Specific_Foundation highlighted they lost about 4 lbs per week .
- Dosage Flexibility: Users like Nieouz appreciated the ability to adjust dosage levels according to personal tolerances and needs, reducing adverse effects while maximizing benefits .
User Complaints
- Beard341 shared an alarming experience after taking a 2.4mg dose following a break from the medication. They experienced severe vomiting every hour for ten hours, describing the ordeal as feeling like expelling their whole being. This highlights potential risks associated with improper dosing .
- DoAndroidsDrmOfSheep described Costco's weight loss program as a "giant shit show," pointing out that some doctors were apparently unaware of the program's existence or details, indicating a lack of proper training and communication within the system .
Common Issues
- Severe Side Effects: Several users recounted experiencing intense gastrointestinal distress due to improper dosing. For instance, Beard341's severe vomiting episode underscores the risk of starting at high doses .
- Inadequate Professional Training: Criticisms like those from DoAndroidsDrmOfSheep suggest that some healthcare providers involved in the program may not be adequately informed about it, potentially leading to dangerous prescriptions and mismanagement .
- Returning Medications: Both Nieouz and other users pointed out the difficulties in returning medications once purchased. They highlighted that despite feeling unsafe or experiencing severe reactions, returns were not accepted, causing financial stress and health risks .
Specific Incidents
- JustineDelarge emphasized a case where the doctor's prescription was so mishandled that they advised escalating the matter through Costco and possibly getting a refund. They referenced a situation where a patient was given the highest dose immediately, contrary to standard medical guidelines, which should involve starting at the lowest dose and gradually increasing it .
- Paperwife2 and others addressed the legal constraints in returning medications, with TropicalBlueWater confirming that it's illegal for pharmacies to accept returns once distributed, making it crucial for prescriptions to be correct and safe from the outset .