MEDVi vs Willow: Which GLP-1 Program Fits You Best?
If you're comparing MEDVi vs Willow, you've probably got two browser tabs open and a growing sense that every review site sounds like an ad. We've been there. Both programs offer compounded GLP-1 medications shipped to your door. Both promise easy online signups and physician support. Both look decent on the surface.
But the differences that actually affect your experience — what you pay after the first month, whether the oral tablet option is backed by real evidence, and how cancellation works in practice — those are buried in fine print that most comparison pages never bother to read.
We did read it. All of it. The official pages, the terms and conditions, the FAQs, and the regulatory filings. What follows is a detailed breakdown of every difference that matters — so you can pick the program that fits your situation, not just the one with the flashiest landing page.
Disclosure: Some links on this site are affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting our site.·For informational purposes only—not medical advice.
For informational purposes only—not medical advice.
The Bottom Line
These are both legitimate programs — but they're built for different buyers.
MEDVi starts at $179/month for compounded semaglutide (vs. Willow's $299), serves 49 states (vs. Willow's 35), has HSA/FSA approved status, a 4.5/5 Trustpilot rating from over 10,000 reviews, and includes a money-back guarantee if you don't lose weight after five months. If price and flexibility are your top priorities, MEDVi is the stronger option.
Willow has real strengths of its own: flat pricing that doesn't change when your dose increases, an oral sublingual semaglutide tablet for people who prefer not to inject, a women-focused care team with expertise in hormonal health, and a named CMO (Dr. Michael Green) who is himself a GLP-1 patient. If those priorities match your situation, Willow is a solid choice.
Want to get started?
MEDVi's intake quiz takes about 5 minutes. A licensed clinician reviews your information and may follow up before approving your prescription. If you qualify, medication ships free with cold-packed delivery.
Check Today's MEDVi Pricing & Eligibility →Still want to compare? Keep reading — we'll cover every difference that matters.
MEDVi vs Willow at a Glance
Every row was checked against official provider pages and terms — not pulled from a press release or another review site.
| MEDVi | Willow | |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide (injectable) — month 1 | $179 | $299 |
| Semaglutide (injectable) — ongoing | $299/mo | $299/mo (flat) |
| Oral semaglutide tablets | $249 first month, $369 ongoing | $299/mo (flat) |
| Tirzepatide (injectable) — month 1 | $279 | $399 |
| Tirzepatide (injectable) — ongoing | $399–$499/mo (dose-dependent) | $399–$524/mo |
| Price changes with dose? | Yes — terms say final charge may fluctuate based on medication and pharmacy | Product page says "for every dosage," but FAQ says costs may vary by dosage/prescription |
| Oral/needle-free option? | Daily dissolvable tablet (semaglutide) | Daily sublingual tablet (semaglutide) |
| States available | 49 states (all except North Dakota) | 35 states |
| Pharmacy partners | Multiple USA-certified compounding pharmacies (including Belmar Pharma Solutions and Beluga Health per third-party sources) | Not publicly named |
| Use your own pharmacy? | Not offered | Yes — platform fee applies |
| Brand-name GLP-1 option? | Ozempic injection at $1,999/mo (limited) | Not offered |
| Money-back guarantee? | Yes — no weight loss in 5 months = refund (minus 25% consult fee) | No |
| Cancel anytime? | Yes — 72 hours before billing date | Yes — 2 business days before processing date |
| Refund on cancellation? | Only for medical disqualification | Only if canceled before Rx sent to pharmacy |
| Same-day approval? | Not explicitly claimed | Yes — but pharmacy processing adds 2–4 business days |
| Shipping | Free, cold-packed | Free, 2–3 day (after 2–4 day processing) |
| Provider consultation required? | Clinician review included; follow-up consult may be required | Yes (virtual, same-day) |
| 24/7 messaging | Yes — unlimited | Yes — unlimited physician access |
| Trustpilot | 4.5/5 (10,000+ reviews) | ~3.7/5 (300+ reviews) |
| LegitScript certified? | Yes | Yes |
| Insurance accepted? | No — cash-pay only | No — cash-pay |
| HSA/FSA? | HSA/FSA approved (confirm with your plan administrator) | Accepted |
| FDA-approved? | No — compounded products are not FDA-approved | No — compounded products are not FDA-approved |
| Target audience | General population | Women-focused weight-loss positioning |
| Best for | Budget-conscious buyers who want the lowest entry price and widest state coverage | Patients who want flat pricing, women-focused care, or a named physician relationship |
All pricing checked against official provider websites, March 2026. Prices are subject to change — always confirm before purchasing.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose MEDVi if…
MEDVi's strengths are price, coverage, and social proof:
Lowest entry price matters to you.
$179 first month vs. Willow's $299. After month one, semaglutide is $299/month at both. The total first-year difference on semaglutide is $120.
You're in one of the 14 states Willow doesn't serve.
MEDVi covers 49 states vs. Willow's 35. If you're in Alaska, Utah, Arkansas, Louisiana, Delaware, or others not on Willow's list, MEDVi is your option between these two.
You want to verify the pharmacy yourself.
MEDVi works with multiple USA-certified compounding pharmacies — third-party sources identify Belmar Pharma Solutions and Beluga Health among their partners. These are names you can research independently.
Volume of reviews gives you confidence.
10,000+ Trustpilot reviews at 4.5/5. More data points to evaluate before committing.
You want a money-back guarantee.
MEDVi offers a refund if you follow the program for five months and don't lose weight (minus 25% consultation fee). Willow has no comparable guarantee.
“Lost 16 lbs in 10 weeks — no side effects. Down two sizes. I wish I’d started sooner.”
— Verified MEDVi patient on ConsumerAffairs ★★★★★
Choose Willow if…
Willow's strengths are pricing predictability, personalized physician care, and women's health focus:
You refuse needles.
Willow offers an oral sublingual semaglutide tablet — a mint-flavored daily dissolve-under-the-tongue format — at a flat $299/month. MEDVi also has a dissolvable tablet, but Willow has been marketing the oral option more aggressively. (Read our honest take on oral semaglutide evidence before committing to this format.)
You want flat pricing that won't change with your dose.
Willow's semaglutide price is $299/month at every dosage level. No increases. No surprises. If you're on tirzepatide and expect to need higher doses, Willow's flat-rate model protects your budget. MEDVi's tirzepatide can climb to $499/month at higher doses.
You're a woman dealing with hormonal weight gain.
Willow positions itself as a women-focused weight-loss platform. Their clinical team specializes in women's health, and their CMO (Dr. Michael Green, OB/GYN) is publicly named and is himself a GLP-1 patient. If you're navigating perimenopause or menopause and want a provider who understands that hormonal context, Willow's positioning makes sense.
You want to use your own pharmacy.
Willow lets you send your prescription to a pharmacy of your choice, with a platform fee. MEDVi doesn't offer this.
Skip both if…
Your insurance covers brand-name Wegovy or Zepbound with a reasonable copay. FDA-approved medications with insurance backing will always be the gold standard. Don't pay $300/month out of pocket for compounded medication when you have a cheaper, clinically-proven path through your doctor.
What Do You Actually Pay? The Full Cost Picture
The most common reason people search after signing up for a GLP-1 program is: “Wait, my bill is different than what I expected.” We built cost scenarios so that doesn't happen to you.
MEDVi pricing breakdown
What the marketing page says:
- • Compounded semaglutide injections: $179 first month, $299/month ongoing
- • Compounded semaglutide tablets: $249 first month, $369/month ongoing
- • Compounded tirzepatide: $279 first month, $399/month ongoing (can reach $499 at higher doses)
- • No membership fee — medication cost is the total cost
- • Free shipping included
What the terms say:
“The final charge may fluctuate depending on the prescribed medication and chosen pharmacy.”
In practice: The $299 semaglutide refill price appears stable. For tirzepatide, plan for the price to increase as your dose goes up.
Willow pricing breakdown
What the marketing says:
- • Compounded semaglutide (injectable or oral): $299/month — “for every dosage”
- • Compounded tirzepatide: $399/month (injectable); up to $524/month for premium formulations
- • All-inclusive: medication, consultation, physician messaging, free 2–3 day shipping
What the FAQ and terms say:
“Medication costs vary by dosage and prescription.” “Subscription fee may increase or decrease if the prescription changes.”
Willow's flat-rate promise seems to hold for semaglutide. But the terms leave room for changes if your prescription is modified.
6-month and 12-month cost comparison
| MEDVi Sema (Inj.) | Willow Sema (Inj.) | MEDVi Tirz (Inj.) | Willow Tirz (Inj.) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month 1 | $179 | $299 | $279 | $399 |
| Months 2–6 | $1,495 | $1,495 | $1,995–$2,495 | $1,995 |
| 6-Month Total | $1,674 | $1,794 | $2,274–$2,774 | $2,394 |
| 12-Month Total | $3,468 | $3,588 | $4,668–$5,769 | $4,788 |
MEDVi tirzepatide range reflects potential dose-based increases ($399–$499/mo). Willow assumes standard $399/mo flat rate.
The takeaway:
MEDVi is cheaper for semaglutide in the first month thanks to the $179 intro price. After that, both cost $299/month — so the total difference is $120 over 12 months. For tirzepatide, MEDVi starts lower but costs can increase with dose escalation. Willow's flat tirzepatide pricing may save you money if you're on a higher dose long-term. The right pick depends on which medication you're taking and how long you plan to stay on it.
What Medications and Formats Do MEDVi and Willow Offer?
Injectable semaglutide
Both offer compounded semaglutide injections administered once weekly. This is the most common format and where most patients start — it's also the format with the strongest anecdotal track record across all GLP-1 telehealth providers.
Oral semaglutide tablets
MEDVi offers a daily dissolvable semaglutide tablet at $249 for the first month, $369/month ongoing.
Willow offers a daily sublingual semaglutide tablet (dissolves under the tongue) at $299/month flat. Willow also provides ondansetron (Zofran) for nausea management if needed.
Both oral options are compounded. Neither is the same product as Rybelsus or the FDA-approved Wegovy pill — both of which are swallowed tablets with specific absorption requirements, not sublingual formulations.
Tirzepatide
Both offer compounded tirzepatide injections. MEDVi also offers tirzepatide in a tablet format. Willow's tirzepatide appears to be injectable only.
Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors — a dual-action approach. Clinical trials of the FDA-approved brand-name versions (Zepbound, Mounjaro) showed greater average weight loss than semaglutide alone. Those results are from brand-name products, not compounded formulations — but the dual-receptor mechanism is why tirzepatide commands a premium.
Semaglutide or tirzepatide — which one should you ask about?
Brand-name access
MEDVi lists brand-name Ozempic injection at $1,999/month with limited availability. If your insurance covers brand-name GLP-1s, go through your doctor or an insurance-specialist provider instead. Willow doesn't offer brand-name medications but allows you to use your own pharmacy.
Is Oral Compounded Semaglutide as Proven as Injections?
This section might save you real money and frustration. It's a question almost nobody addresses honestly.
The short answer
No. You should not assume that oral compounded semaglutide — from Willow, MEDVi, or anyone else — carries the same evidence base as injectable semaglutide.
What the providers themselves say
Willow's disclosures:
“Compounded drug products are not approved or evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or quality by the FDA.” Their products “have not been subjected to clinical trials assessing safety or effectiveness.”
MEDVi's disclosures:
“Compounded GLP-1s are produced in FDA-regulated facilities. Although these facilities are highly regulated, the medications are not FDA-approved or evaluated for safety, efficacy, or quality.”
Both providers are telling you this on their own websites. We're just making sure you actually see it.
What FDA-approved oral semaglutide actually is
There are now two FDA-approved oral semaglutide products: Rybelsus (approved for type 2 diabetes, not weight loss) and the Wegovy pill (approved in December 2025 for weight management — the first oral GLP-1 for obesity). Both FDA-approved oral products are swallowed tablets with specific absorption requirements: take on an empty stomach with no more than 4 ounces of water, then wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking, or taking other medications.
A compounded sublingual tablet that dissolves under the tongue — like what Willow and MEDVi offer — is a fundamentally different delivery mechanism from these FDA-approved oral tablets. The compounded versions have not gone through the same clinical trials or regulatory review.
Why this matters for your decision
“Oral semaglutide” is not one monolithic thing. Multiple Willow patients on Consumer Affairs and Trustpilot have reported zero weight loss on the oral tablets after 2–3 months, while patients on injectables from the same provider reported better results.
Our take: If needles are a hard no, the oral option might still be worth trying. But go in knowing you're choosing convenience over certainty. If you try oral and don't see results after 2–3 months, talk to your provider about switching to injectable before writing off GLP-1 therapy entirely. And if you're open to injections — even a little — start there. The needles are tiny (most patients say they barely feel them), and the injectable format has a much stronger track record across the board.
Is Compounded GLP-1 Medication Safe?
This question comes up in every GLP-1 comparison, and it deserves a straight answer.
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are prepared by licensed U.S. pharmacies operating under state and federal regulation (503A pharmacy rules). They use pharmaceutical-grade ingredients and are subject to quality standards — but they are not FDA-approved products. The FDA has not evaluated them for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality the way it evaluates brand-name drugs like Wegovy or Zepbound.
The FDA has issued cautions about compounded GLP-1 medications specifically, citing risks including contamination, incorrect concentrations, and temperature mishandling during shipping. These risks are real but manageable if you choose a provider that works with reputable, named pharmacies.
One difference worth noting on pharmacy transparency:
MEDVi publicly names its compounding partners — Belmar Pharma Solutions and Beluga Health. These are established pharmacies you can look up independently. Willow doesn't publicly disclose its pharmacy partners, which makes independent verification harder. That said, Willow is LegitScript-certified and lets you use your own pharmacy if you prefer — something MEDVi doesn't offer.
What to check when your medication arrives (from either provider):
- Cold packing intact and medication properly refrigerated
- Clear labeling with your name, medication name, dosage, and pharmacy information
- No discoloration, particles, or unusual appearance
- Expiration date present and not passed
- Consistent with what your provider described
If anything looks off, contact your provider before using the medication. Both MEDVi and Willow offer 24/7 support for this reason.
The broader context: The entire compounded GLP-1 industry is under increased scrutiny. The FDA declared the semaglutide shortage resolved in February 2025, which has made the legal ground for compounding more complex. Both Novo Nordisk (Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (Zepbound) have been aggressively challenging compounded providers. This doesn't mean compounded GLP-1s are going away tomorrow — but the landscape is shifting. Both MEDVi and Willow hold LegitScript certification, which is a meaningful baseline for compliance. If regulatory changes affect compounded GLP-1 availability, providers with strong pharmacy partnerships and transparent operations are better positioned.
What the Sales Page Says vs. What the Fine Print Says
This is the section we wish every comparison site included. It's exactly what closes the uncertainty that drives the “medvi vs willow” search.
MEDVi: marketing vs. terms
| What the marketing says | What the terms say |
|---|---|
| "$179 start, refills locked at $299" | Terms note final charge may fluctuate based on medication and pharmacy — in practice, semaglutide appears stable at $299; tirzepatide can increase with dose |
| "No hidden fees" | ✅ Confirmed — no membership fee, no consultation fee |
| "Free shipping" | ✅ Confirmed — free, expedited, cold-packed delivery |
| "24/7 support" | ✅ Confirmed — unlimited messaging and appointments |
| "Money-back guarantee" | If no weight loss after 5 months, refund minus 25% consultation fee — specific compliance conditions apply |
| Quick approval implied | OpenLoop Health clinicians decide independently. Payment doesn't guarantee a prescription — but if you're disqualified medically, you get a full refund |
Our read: MEDVi's marketing is mostly accurate. The main caveat is tirzepatide pricing at higher doses. For semaglutide users, what you see is largely what you get.
Willow: marketing vs. FAQ/terms
| What the marketing says | What the FAQ/terms say |
|---|---|
| "$299, transparent pricing" | FAQ: "Medication costs vary by dosage and prescription." Terms: "Subscription fee may increase or decrease if the prescription changes." |
| "Same-day approval and prescriptions" | FAQ: Pharmacy processing takes 2–4 business days, then delivery is 2–3 days. Total time to medication isn't same-day. |
| "Free two-day shipping" | ✅ Confirmed — but only after the processing window |
| "Unlimited physician access" | ✅ Confirmed |
| Weight loss messaging throughout the site | Willow's disclosures: products "have not been subjected to clinical trials assessing safety or effectiveness" |
Our read: Willow's marketing is more aggressive than the fine print supports. The “same-day” language is technically about the prescription, not receiving medication. And the “transparent pricing” claim sits uncomfortably next to terms that say your fee can change. This isn't unusual for telehealth companies. But it's the kind of gap that erodes trust — and it matters when you're deciding where to spend $300+ per month.
Are MEDVi and Willow Legit? The Trust Check
Neither program is a scam. Both are real companies with real patients getting real results. But the trust signals are meaningfully different.
Are the medications FDA-approved?
No. Compounded medications from both MEDVi and Willow are not FDA-approved. Both companies disclose this on their websites. Compounded drugs are prepared by licensed pharmacies under state and federal regulation but don't go through the FDA's standard approval process. If FDA approval is a must-have for you, the answer is brand-name Wegovy or Zepbound through your doctor.
MEDVi trust signals
- LegitScript certified — regularly monitored for compliance
- Named pharmacy partners — Belmar Pharma Solutions and Beluga Health
- OpenLoop Health clinician network — U.S.-licensed doctors and NPs who independently decide whether to prescribe
- 10,000+ Trustpilot reviews at 4.5/5
- Money-back guarantee — rare in this industry
- 49-state coverage
- Founded 2023, headquartered in Newark, Delaware
Willow trust signals
- LegitScript certified — same baseline legitimacy as MEDVi
- Named CMO — Dr. Michael Green, dual board-certified OB/GYN with 30+ years of experience, himself a GLP-1 patient
- Women-focused clinical team — positioned for women's health including menopause
- Same-day prescriptions and free 2-day shipping
- 50,000+ patients served
The bottom-line trust read: Both companies are LegitScript certified. Both use licensed U.S. compounding pharmacies. Both have helped thousands of patients lose weight. MEDVi has a larger volume of positive reviews and a money-back guarantee. Willow has a named CMO who is himself a GLP-1 patient and a women-focused clinical team. Choose based on which trust signals matter most to your situation.
What About Side Effects?
Since both providers prescribe the same classes of medications, the side effect profiles are similar regardless of which program you choose.
The most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications include nausea (especially in the first few weeks), constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and injection site reactions. These tend to be mild to moderate and usually decrease as your body adjusts to the medication.
Less common but more serious possibilities include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and thyroid-related concerns. Both providers should screen for contraindications during the intake process.
One practical difference:
Willow offers ondansetron (Zofran) for nausea management. We didn't find a similar add-on explicitly advertised by MEDVi, though you can always discuss anti-nausea options with your prescribing clinician.
Our advice: Start at the lowest dose your provider recommends. Give your body 2–4 weeks to adjust before asking for a dose increase. Stay hydrated. Eat smaller, protein-rich meals. If side effects are severe or persistent, message your provider — both MEDVi and Willow offer 24/7 support for exactly this reason. Read our GLP-1 diet plan for more guidance.
What Real Patients Are Saying
Before you sign up for anything, the reviews tell a story that marketing pages can't.
MEDVi review patterns (Trustpilot: 4.5/5, 10,000+ reviews)
What patients praise most: Affordability tops the list. Many reviewers came from more expensive programs and found MEDVi's pricing transformative. Simplicity of the online assessment and responsiveness of support staff are the next most common themes.
Weight loss results: One ConsumerAffairs reviewer on tirzepatide reported going from 158 to 138 pounds in two months. Another described losing 50 pounds in under six months.
The negatives: Slow onboarding (some waited up to two weeks) and billing issues (charges continuing after late cancellation requests). Some need PCP clearance before treatment.
Willow review patterns (Trustpilot: ~3.7/5, 300+ reviews)
Where Willow shines: The women-focused care model resonates with patients who've struggled with hormonal weight gain. Personalized attention from a named physician builds loyalty. Long-term patients report the strongest results.
What some flag: Learning curve with shipping timelines (same-day prescription doesn't mean same-day delivery). Some oral tablet users report slower results compared to injectable users.
Our take: Willow's review profile reflects a newer, smaller program that does well for its core audience. If you want maximum social proof, MEDVi's 10,000+ reviews provide more data points.
Shipping, Delays, and What Happens if Something Goes Wrong
MEDVi shipping
Free expedited delivery with cold packing. Most reviewers report receiving medication within a few days of approval, though some report longer waits (up to 14 days from initial signup). MEDVi's policy covers damaged or incorrect items — contact support immediately, and the pharmacy will replace.
Willow shipping
Willow advertises free 2-day shipping — but the clock starts after pharmacy processing, which takes 2–4 business days. Total timeline: 4–7 business days from approval to your doorstep. Willow's FAQ includes a specific replacement policy for packages delayed in transit under unsafe temperature conditions.
For either provider: Track your package. Be home on delivery day. If injectable medication sits in a hot mailbox for hours, contact support before using it.
How the Signup Process Actually Works
Understanding the onboarding flow helps you set realistic expectations for how quickly you'll have medication in hand.
MEDVi: assessment to medication
- Online health assessment (5 minutes). Medical history, current medications, weight loss goals, and lifestyle.
- Checkout and payment. You pay for your first month before a clinician reviews your case. If medically disqualified, you get a full refund.
- Clinician review. An OpenLoop Health clinician reviews your information and decides whether to prescribe. Six states require a live consultation.
- Prescription and shipping. Medication compounded at Belmar or Beluga Health, shipped free with cold packing.
- Ongoing support. Unlimited 24/7 messaging, regular check-ins, dose adjustments as needed. Follow-up labs every 3–6 months.
Timeline: 5–14 days from signup to medication.
Willow: assessment to medication
- Online assessment (2–3 minutes). Health history, goals, and preferences.
- Physician review (same-day). Licensed Willow physician creates a personalized treatment plan.
- Medication selection and payment. Pick your preferred format and pay.
- Pharmacy processing (2–4 business days). The step Willow's marketing glosses over.
- Delivery and ongoing care. Medication arrives with instructions. Unlimited messaging and 24/7 support.
Timeline: 4–7 business days from approval.
Neither is instant. Set your expectations accordingly, and don't start the program the week you need to fit into a dress for a wedding. This is a long-game investment in your health.
Can You Cancel Without Getting Charged Again?
MEDVi cancellation
- • Cancel anytime: email [email protected] or use the patient portal chat
- • Request must arrive at least 72 hours before your billing date
- • Miss the window = you're charged for the next month; cancellation takes effect the month after
- • No refunds on cancellation (except medical disqualification)
- • You keep access through the end of your current billing cycle
Willow cancellation
- • Cancel anytime by messaging patient care
- • Request must arrive at least 2 business days before your next processing/shipping date
- • Full refund only if you cancel before your prescription is sent to the pharmacy
- • Once the pharmacy processes your order, no refund
Before starting either program:
- Note your billing or processing date
- Set a phone reminder 4 days before it
- Screenshot the cancellation policy
- Save the support email or chat link
Where Are MEDVi and Willow Available?
MEDVi: 49 states
Every state except North Dakota.
Special rules in some states:
- • KS, IN, MS, NM, OK, WV — live provider consultation required
- • AL and CA — injectable only; tablets can't ship per state law
Willow: 35 states
AZ, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KY, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OK, OR, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WA, WI.
Not available in: AL, AK, AR, DE, KS, LA, MS, NM, ND, RI, SD, UT, VT, WV, WY, and D.C. — that's 15 states plus D.C. where Willow simply isn't an option.
Eligibility differences
Willow says it cannot accept patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Pre-diabetes and hypertension are fine. This is unusual — GLP-1 medications were originally developed for diabetes.
MEDVi doesn't appear to have this restriction based on publicly available information. Both require: 18+, not pregnant or breastfeeding, no certain contraindicated conditions.
Who Should Avoid Both Programs?
People who only want FDA-approved medications
Both programs primarily sell compounded GLP-1 products that are not FDA-approved. If that's a dealbreaker, talk to your doctor about brand-name Wegovy or Zepbound.
People whose insurance covers brand-name GLP-1s
If your plan covers Wegovy or Zepbound with a reasonable copay (under $100/month), go that route. Call member services and ask. Coverage has expanded significantly in 2025–2026, especially for employer-sponsored plans. Spend 10 minutes on the phone before committing to $300/month out of pocket.
A note on Medicare
Coverage for GLP-1 weight loss medications under Medicare is extremely limited. Medicare generally only covers Wegovy if you have established cardiovascular disease. A proposed expansion (the BALANCE Model) may open access in mid-2026–2027, but nothing is live yet. For seniors on fixed incomes, MEDVi's $179 starting price makes it the most accessible option in this comparison.
HSA/FSA
If you have a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account, you may be able to use those pre-tax dollars. Both accept HSA/FSA. Paying with HSA funds effectively reduces your monthly cost by 20–30% depending on your tax bracket — which can bring MEDVi's $179 first month down to roughly $125–$145 in real after-tax cost.
People with diabetes considering Willow
Willow explicitly excludes patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. If that applies to you, MEDVi or another provider is the better path.
People who want structured lifestyle coaching
Neither MEDVi nor Willow offers real nutrition counseling, exercise programming, or behavioral coaching. They're medication delivery programs with physician support. That said — the medication itself does a lot of heavy lifting. The key habits to pair with the medication: prioritize protein (aim for 100+ grams per day to preserve muscle mass), stay hydrated, and incorporate some form of resistance training.
What Results Can You Realistically Expect?
We're not going to promise you'll lose 20% of your body weight. Nobody can honestly promise that, especially with compounded formulations that haven't been through independent clinical trials.
GLP-1 medications — in their FDA-approved brand-name forms — have produced average weight loss of roughly 15% (semaglutide) to 20–22% (tirzepatide) of body weight in clinical trials lasting 68–72 weeks. Those are averages. Some patients lose more, some lose less, and some don't respond at all.
Compounded versions use the same active compounds, but they haven't been studied independently. Results will vary based on your body, your dose, your consistency, and your lifestyle habits.
MEDVi's approach to expectations:
They advertise patients report an average of 15–20% body weight reduction, with the caveat that these are self-reported results. They back it up with a money-back guarantee.
Willow's approach to expectations:
They claim patients can “lose up to 20% of their body weight.” That figure comes from brand-name clinical trials (Wegovy, Zepbound) — not from studies on Willow's own compounded formulations. The same caveat applies to any compounded GLP-1 provider citing those numbers.
Realistic timeline:
Most patients start noticing appetite suppression within the first 1–2 weeks. Visible weight loss typically begins by weeks 4–8, depending on starting weight and dose. The first few weeks are about adjusting to the medication and managing side effects, not about dramatic scale changes. Be patient. This isn't a crash diet — it's a gradual metabolic shift.
MEDVi's money-back guarantee in detail:
If you follow MEDVi's program for five months and haven't lost weight, you're eligible for a refund minus a 25% doctor consultation fee. You need to demonstrate program compliance. Get the specific terms in writing from MEDVi support before relying on this, but the fact that it exists at all is a meaningful differentiator. Willow has no comparable guarantee.
How We Evaluated MEDVi vs Willow
We compared both providers across 14 dimensions using primary sources — not other affiliate review sites.
What we checked:
- Official pricing — verified on medvi.org and startwillow.com (March 2026)
- Terms and conditions — the actual legal documents
- FAQ disclosures — specifically caveats not in the marketing copy
- Cancellation and refund policies — full text
- State availability — from provider sites and ConsumerAffairs data
- Pharmacy transparency — whether partners are publicly named
- Medication formats — injectable, oral, brand-name options
- Clinical model — who prescribes, consultation requirements, access level
- Regulatory history — FDA warning letters database, BBB National Programs decisions
- LegitScript certification — confirmed active for both
- Patient reviews — Trustpilot and ConsumerAffairs sentiment analysis
- Eligibility requirements — age, BMI, diabetes, pregnancy exclusions
- Shipping claims — marketing vs. terms timeline
- Audience focus — general vs. specialized demographics
What we couldn't fully verify: Shipping performance for every customer in every state. Every dose-specific price outcome at scale. Clinical effectiveness of either company's specific compounded formulations (neither has published independent data).
MEDVi vs Willow FAQ
Is MEDVi or Willow cheaper after the first month?
For semaglutide, they cost the same at $299/month after month one. MEDVi saves $120 total via its first-month discount. For tirzepatide, MEDVi starts lower but can exceed Willow at higher doses.
Does Willow offer oral semaglutide?
Yes. Daily sublingual tablet at $299/month.
Is Willow's oral semaglutide the same as Rybelsus or the Wegovy pill?
No. Rybelsus and the Wegovy pill are FDA-approved oral semaglutide products — swallowed tablets with specific absorption requirements. Willow's sublingual tablet is a compounded formulation that dissolves under the tongue using a different delivery mechanism. They are not the same products.
Does MEDVi offer oral GLP-1 tablets?
Yes. Dissolvable semaglutide and tirzepatide tablets, though pricing is higher than injectable options.
Are MEDVi and Willow FDA-approved?
No. Compounded medications from both are not FDA-approved. Both disclose this on their websites.
Can I cancel MEDVi anytime?
Yes — 72 hours before billing date. No refunds except medical disqualification.
Can I cancel Willow anytime?
Yes — 2 business days before processing date. Full refund only before Rx goes to pharmacy.
Does Willow let me use my own pharmacy?
Yes, with a platform fee. You cover medication costs directly.
Does MEDVi take insurance?
No. Cash-pay only. You may submit claims for reimbursement on brand-name medications.
Does Willow take insurance?
No. Cash-pay. Some reimbursement possible if you submit claims yourself.
What happens if my dose changes?
MEDVi: price may change (especially for tirzepatide). Willow: marketed as flat, but terms note fees may change with prescription changes.
Which states does Willow serve?
35 states. See the state availability section on this page for the full list.
Does Willow accept people with diabetes?
No. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are excluded. Pre-diabetes is fine.
What if my package is delayed?
Both have replacement policies. Contact support immediately — don't use medication that may have been stored at unsafe temperatures.
Which one is better if I want to avoid surprises?
MEDVi has more transparent pricing, named pharmacy partners, and a money-back guarantee. Willow's flat pricing means no surprise cost increases when your dose goes up. It depends on which kind of surprise you're trying to avoid.
Can I switch from MEDVi to Willow (or vice versa)?
Yes. Neither requires a contract. Bring your current dosage info to your new provider.
Can I use HSA or FSA to pay?
Both accept HSA/FSA. MEDVi's current page says "HSA/FSA Approved." Willow also explicitly accepts HSA/FSA. Confirm with your specific plan administrator that GLP-1 telehealth qualifies under your account.
What happens when I reach my goal weight?
Both can help transition to maintenance dosing or taper off. Discuss a long-term plan before discontinuing — some patients experience weight regain after stopping.
How do MEDVi and Willow compare to Hims or Ro?
Different comparison. Hims is $199/month for semaglutide in all 50 states. Ro has a membership fee on top. We cover those matchups in our complete GLP-1 provider guide.
Is it safe to buy GLP-1 medications online?
From licensed, LegitScript-certified providers like MEDVi and Willow — yes, with the understanding that compounded medications are not FDA-approved. The FDA warns against buying from unverified international sellers or websites that don't require a prescription. Both MEDVi and Willow require a prescriber to review your health information before dispensing medication, which is the minimum standard you should expect.
What if GLP-1 therapy doesn't work for me?
Not everyone responds to GLP-1 medications. If you've been consistent for 3+ months and aren't seeing results, talk to your provider about adjusting your dose, switching from oral to injectable, trying tirzepatide instead of semaglutide, or exploring other options. MEDVi's money-back guarantee provides a financial safety net if the program genuinely doesn't work after five months. Willow has no similar guarantee.
How long do I need to stay on GLP-1 medication?
This varies. Some patients use GLP-1 therapy for 6–12 months to reach their goal weight, then taper off under physician guidance. Others stay on low-dose maintenance indefinitely to prevent weight regain. Research on FDA-approved GLP-1s suggests that some patients regain weight after stopping — which is why having a maintenance plan matters.
Final Verdict
MEDVi is the better fit if price, flexibility, and volume of reviews matter most.
Lower starting price, near-nationwide coverage, named pharmacy partners, 10,000+ positive reviews, and a money-back guarantee. If you're a first-time GLP-1 user who wants the lowest-risk way to start, MEDVi gives you more room to test the waters.
Willow is the better fit if personalized care, flat pricing, or women's health expertise matter most.
Flat dosage-based pricing that won't increase with dose escalation, a named CMO who is himself a GLP-1 patient, a women-focused care team, and the option to use your own pharmacy. Willow's model rewards patients who value a closer physician relationship.
If MEDVi fits your priorities:
Their assessment takes about 5 minutes. A licensed clinician reviews your information and may follow up before approving your prescription. Medication ships free with cold-packed delivery. Money-back guarantee if you don't lose weight after five months.
Check Today's MEDVi Pricing & See If You Qualify →If Willow fits your priorities:
Take the 2-minute assessment for same-day physician review. Flat pricing, oral or injectable, women-focused care, named CMO.
See If Willow Serves Your State →Prefer FDA-approved medication only? See our guide to brand-name GLP-1 access →
Still not sure? Take our free 60-second matching quiz →
Medical disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any prescription medication. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved and have not been evaluated for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality by the FDA. Full medical disclaimer
Affiliate disclosure: We earn commissions when you sign up through our links. This revenue funds our research. Our recommendations are based on the data above, not commission rates. We included the fine-print pricing caveats, the oral semaglutide evidence gap, and the cancellation gotchas because you need that information. Read our full editorial standards
About the WPG Research Team: We're an independent editorial team focused on GLP-1 telehealth providers. We verify pricing, read the fine print, check regulatory databases, and provide honest comparisons so you can make informed decisions about your care.
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