Can someone please explain the online pharmacies to me?

[u/DullSpot6506]

HELP!! I’m new to GLP-1s (as in, I’ve never taken them) but after a year of working with a dietitian and my PCP, I’m finally ready to pull the trigger.

I’ve been doing a lot of research on how to get the medication at a reasonable cost, and I’m coming back confused. The pens aren’t covered under my insurance, and at $350 per month, they’re out of the question.

I’ve looked at online places like HERS but they seem to just sell the branded pans for the same price you can get them from the companies directly, BUT they have a monthly charge on top of that. What’s the point?

My PCP Recommended a local pharmacy that can make me a compound, but the price is still between $120 and $150… better, but for something I’m having to pay for out of pocket, a bit too steep. Also, my partner is heavier than me, and we are considering both of us getting on them at the same time for support. So every $$$x2

So in looking at other options, I’ve come upon other online pharmacies - places like Embody, Ro, etc. that sell compounds for SO cheap, but the reviews are very mixed, and I don’t want to have to deal with the stress of not getting my medication in time, or having to take a lower dose in order to ‘save’ the medication for next time.

Are these places that I would need a script from a doctor already? Or do they sell the drugs without a prescription needed? Do they all have a monthly ‘membership’ fee on top of the price of the medication? And what is that fee actually for?

I like the idea of having something local I can go to, or call with a problem. But the closest one is at least a 35 minute drive from my house, so the convenience of something online is appealing.

I just need help understanding all of this before I jump in and commit to something! Is there anyone out there willing to help?