Noom, a digital health company, recently announced that it will be offering a compounded GLP-1 drug as part of a new weight loss product. This drug will feature compounded semaglutide, which is the same active ingredient found in Novo Nordisk’s popular obesity and diabetes drugs, Wegovy and Ozempic. Noom has been providing weight loss programs for years, and now they are expanding their offerings to include access to branded medications through their platform.
The decision to offer compounded versions of these medications comes as demand for weight loss and diabetes drugs continues to rise. Noom is not the only company venturing into this market; Hims & Hers and Sesame have also recently launched similar programs. The competition for low-cost options has grown, and consumers are benefiting from these alternatives.
Noom’s CEO, Geoff Cook, stated that their aim is to provide more supply at a reasonable price. The compounded versions of GLP-1 medications are typically much cheaper than their branded counterparts. Wegovy and Ozempic can cost up to $1,000 per month before insurance coverage. While most insurance plans cover GLP-1s for diabetes treatment, coverage for weight loss drugs is less widespread. This shortage in coverage and the increasing demand for these medications can make it difficult for many patients to access the branded treatments.
Under Noom’s program, consumers will pay $149 for their first month and $279 for the following months as the dosage of their medication increases. It’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not review the safety and efficacy of compounded products. The FDA recommends that consumers opt for approved, branded GLP-1 medications when they are available. However, the FDA does inspect some outsourcing facilities that compound drugs.
Noom has partnered with an FDA-regulated 503B compounding pharmacy to provide the medication for their program, ensuring the quality and safety of their compounded GLP-1 drug. Dr. Adonis Saremi, the chief medical officer of Noom, expressed confidence in the vetting process, citing the compounding pharmacy’s experience in manufacturing lifesaving medications.
While GLP-1s are intended for long-term use, Noom has introduced a way for participants to taper off the compounded treatment if they choose to stop taking it. Noom has observed both anecdotal and real-world evidence that patients can maintain weight loss after discontinuing the medication. Cook explained that many patients eventually stop taking the medication due to various reasons, such as insurance coverage changes or job transitions.
Noom acknowledges that not everyone will be able to taper off the medication, and some individuals may need to take it indefinitely. To support their customers, the company offers a free year of Noom or substantial medication discounts to those who regain weight within 18 months after following the program for a year.
Getting started with the Noom GLP-1 RX program is simple. Consumers can fill out an intake form on the website, which will be reviewed by one of Noom’s contracted, obesity-trained doctors. If deemed appropriate, the compounded medication will be delivered to their doorstep within a week. Participants will receive guidance on how to self-administer the medication and have access to a chat feature for one-on-one communication with a coach and Noom clinician.
Noom’s program goes beyond medication. Participants will have access to psychology-based programming and tools to help them maintain muscle mass, including features for tracking protein intake and engaging in resistance training. If users decide they are ready to stop taking the medication, they can discuss it with their clinician or initiate the tapering process through the app’s settings.
Cook emphasized that Noom’s goal is not just to sell more medications but to drive sustained weight loss outcomes. They understand that many individuals do not want to rely on medication for the rest of their lives. Noom aims to empower their customers to achieve long-term weight loss success through a comprehensive program that combines medication, coaching, and psychological support.
