Financial Planning: Budgeting for Long-Term GLP-1 Treatment

GLP-1 treatment involves several costs: medication (£150-350 monthly depending on type), medical consultations (initial and follow-ups), blood tests and monitoring, and potentially dietary supplements or support services.

Weekly medications (Wegovy, Mounjaro) typically cost £250-300 monthly. Daily medications (Saxenda) run £200-250 monthly. Oral spray options (the oral spray) vary. These are ongoing costs for duration of treatment.

Hidden costs to consider: proper food storage (meal prep containers), gym membership or exercise equipment, new clothing as you lose weight, and travel accommodations if you live far from clinic. Plan for comprehensive costs, not just medication.

NHS coverage is limited and requires meeting strict criteria: BMI ≥35 with related health conditions or BMI ≥40, type 2 diabetes in some cases, and completion of intensive diet programs. Waiting lists can be 6-12 months or longer.

Private insurance varies significantly. Some policies cover GLP-1s for diabetes but not weight loss. Others cover with prior authorization. Review your policy carefully or contact your insurer directly to understand coverage.

Private pay (self-funded) is most common route. This provides: immediate access, choice of provider, consistent supply without approval delays, and ability to choose specific medication type (injection vs. oral spray).

GLP-1 treatment is typically 12-24 months or longer. At £250 monthly, that's £3,000-6,000 total. Create realistic budget: calculate monthly cost, identify areas to reduce expenses, set up dedicated savings or payment plan.

Cost reduction strategies: compare clinic prices (costs vary significantly), ask about package deals (some offer discounts for multiple months), consider subscription models, and evaluate cost vs. benefit realistically.

Financial trade-offs many find worthwhile: reduce dining out (saves money and supports goals), eliminate unused subscriptions, reduce alcohol spending, postpone non-essential purchases, or redirect existing health spending.

Maximise your investment: take medication consistently (missed doses waste money), follow dietary guidance (enhances results), incorporate exercise (accelerates progress), and utilise included support services.

Reduce ancillary costs: meal prep at home instead of buying prepared meals, use free exercise (walking, bodyweight workouts, YouTube videos), buy basics not expensive supplements, and shop your wardrobe as you lose weight.

Consider oral spray options: the oral spray eliminates refrigeration costs, reduces travel complications, and may offer cost advantages. Discuss with your provider whether this is suitable for your situation.

View GLP-1 treatment as health investment, not expense. Benefits: reduced risk of diabetes, heart disease, stroke, improved mobility and quality of life, potentially reduced need for other medications, and increased longevity.

Financial benefits of sustained weight loss: reduced healthcare costs long-term, improved work productivity, fewer sick days, reduced spending on managing obesity-related conditions, and elimination of ineffective diet programs.

Non-financial returns: increased confidence and self-esteem, improved relationships and social life, enhanced career opportunities, ability to enjoy activities previously difficult, and setting positive example for family. The total value extends far beyond pounds spent.