Prices checked Aug 31, 2026
Cheapest cash options in California
Cash telehealth prices are set nationally. A California resident pays the same price as a patient anywhere else in the US. The programs below all serve California and represent the cheapest all-in monthly price at maintenance dose, as verified against each program's published pricing.
| Program | All-in / mo | What the price covers |
|---|---|---|
| Strut Health | $149/mo | Compounded injectable and oral semaglutide from $149/mo. |
| Found | $169/mo | Widest drug catalog, but the best price needs a 12-month plan. |
| Ivim Health | $175/mo | Cash for compounded, insurance route for brand-name. |
| Mochi Health | $178/mo | One flat price covers every dose, no tier jumps. |
Prices are checked every Monday against each program's published pricing. We do not create accounts or make purchases to verify them. See the full ranked list at the comparison chart.
Programs available in California
25 of the programs we track are licensed and available to California residents. Every major GLP-1 telehealth program serves California.
The remaining 25 programs all operate via telehealth and can onboard California patients remotely. You do not need to visit a clinic in person for the initial assessment or follow-up care. See the programs guide for the full breakdown by onboarding time and lock-in terms.
What California Medicaid covers
The diabetes path (Ozempic, Mounjaro) is covered with PA and a documented A1c above the threshold. PA denials are common.
For the full prior-authorization criteria, MCO list, and step-therapy requirements, see the dedicated California Medicaid GLP-1 coverage page. That page also covers appeal options if you are denied on first submission.
The complete cost picture for California residents
A California resident has three realistic paths to a GLP-1 in 2026:
| Path | Cost / mo | Who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Cash-pay telehealth | $149 and up | Anyone. No insurance required. 25 programs serve California. |
| Commercial insurance (employer or marketplace plan) | $25 to $100 copay | Depends on your plan. Prior authorization required, BMI and comorbidity criteria vary by payer. |
| California Medicaid | Wegovy not covered. Zepbound only in limited cases. | Wegovy is not covered for weight loss. Zepbound is covered only in limited cases with prior authorization. Diabetes path (Ozempic, Mounjaro) available with PA. |
For the full insurance picture, including how to file a prior-authorization request and what to do if denied, see the GLP-1 insurance guide. For a side-by-side of every cash program ranked by price, see programs ranked by price.
Related resources
- Homepage comparison chart with all programs ranked by score and price
- GLP-1 coupons and savings programs including manufacturer patient-assistance routes
- California Medicaid coverage in full with PA criteria, MCO list, and appeal templates
- How much does a GLP-1 cost in 2026? with every path and per-year totals
California GLP-1 cost FAQ
What is the cheapest GLP-1 program available in California?
Does California Medicaid cover Wegovy or Zepbound for weight loss?
Does California Medicaid cover Ozempic or Mounjaro for diabetes?
