Some online weight programs ship medication and leave the rest up to you. Fridays takes a broader approach, pairing prescription options with coaching, nutrition support and lab work. Here is how the program is set up and what to check before joining.
Key takeaways
- What it is: an online weight care program led by licensed physicians and nurse practitioners.
- Treatment: compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide, plus support for brand-name options through insurance.
- Extra support: weekly group coaching, a 1:1 nutritionist and Quest lab testing.
- Cost: compounded plans promoted from around $99 per month; HSA and FSA accepted.
- Check first: cancellation needs notice before renewal and refunds are limited.
The Basics
Fridays is an online weight care program that combines clinician-led treatment with lifestyle support. Care is delivered by licensed physicians and nurse practitioners through a partner medical group, and medication is only prescribed when a provider decides it is appropriate for you.
Where many telehealth services focus mainly on shipping medication, Fridays builds coaching, nutrition support and lab testing into the plan. That makes it worth comparing if you want more structure around eating habits, activity and motivation while on treatment.
Why GLP-1 Medications Have Become So Popular
GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide, and dual GIP/GLP-1 agonists such as tirzepatide, mimic gut hormones involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. In everyday terms, many people report feeling full sooner, thinking about food less often and finding it easier to stop eating when satisfied.
In large clinical trials of the FDA-approved, brand-name versions, adults on semaglutide 2.4 mg lost around 15% of body weight on average over 68 weeks in the STEP 1 trial, and those on the highest tirzepatide dose lost around 20% over 72 weeks in SURMOUNT-1, both alongside lifestyle guidance. These figures apply to brand-name products under trial conditions. Compounded versions have not been studied in the same way, and individual results vary widely.
How Fridays Works
Eligibility quiz
A short quiz, about two minutes according to Fridays, to see whether the program fits your situation.
Health intake
You share medical history, current medications and goals so a provider has the full picture.
Virtual consultation
A licensed physician or nurse practitioner reviews your information and discusses treatment options with you.
Monthly plan and coaching
If approved, you continue on a monthly subscription with clinician visits, coaching and nutrition support.
Treatment Options and Pricing
Fridays lists compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide, and also references brand-name options for people who pursue them through insurance. Fridays notes that it does not manufacture compounded medications itself.
Compounded GLP-1
- Semaglutide or tirzepatide
- Prescribed after a provider consult
- HSA and FSA accepted
Brand-Name Support
- Options such as Zepbound or Ozempic
- Prior authorisation help
- Medication cost set by your coverage
Fridays promotes compounded plans from around $99 per month at the time of writing. Insurance is not accepted for the virtual visits, and compounded GLP-1 medications are generally not covered. Check the current plan price on the Fridays site before signing up.
Compounded vs Brand-Name Medication
| Factor | Compounded (Fridays) | Brand name (e.g. Wegovy, Zepbound) |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Semaglutide or tirzepatide | Semaglutide or tirzepatide |
| FDA approval | Not FDA approved | FDA approved for chronic weight management |
| Typical cost | Plans promoted from around $99 per month | Often much higher without insurance |
| Insurance | Not required, FSA/HSA accepted | Coverage varies, often needs prior authorisation |
| Trial evidence | Not studied in large trials as compounded products | Backed by large randomised trials |
Worth knowing: Fridays states that compounded medications have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA. Your provider can explain the differences between compounded and brand-name treatment.
What Is Included
Monthly clinician visits
Physicians and nurse practitioners.
Weekly group coaching
Structured sessions for motivation.
1:1 nutritionist
Personal eating guidance.
Quest lab testing
When your provider requires it.
Prior authorisation help
For brand-name insurance routes.
Meal prep add-on
Optional extra for convenience.
Pros and Cons
What we like
- Coaching and nutritionist support built in
- Regular clinician contact
- Lab testing included when required
- Help with brand-name prior authorisation
- HSA and FSA accepted
What to consider
- Compounded medications are not FDA approved
- Insurance not accepted for virtual visits
- Cancellation needs notice before renewal
- Refunds are limited
- Statement billing name differs from "Fridays"
Read the Terms Before You Join
- Eligibility. The program is for adults aged 18 and over, and eligibility is decided by a provider.
- Cancellation. Fridays asks for notice before your renewal date to cancel, and refunds are limited.
- Billing name. Charges may appear on your statement under a name that differs from "Fridays".
Who Fridays Is Best Suited For
Fridays suits adults who want more than a prescription: regular contact with a clinician, group coaching and a nutritionist in one plan. It is also helpful if you are weighing a brand-name medication through insurance and want support with the prior authorisation process.
It may be less suitable if you only want the lowest possible monthly cost, prefer in-person care, or want maximum flexibility to cancel at short notice.
Side Effects and Important Safety Notes
GLP-1 medications are prescription treatments and are not right for everyone. The most common side effects are digestive and are often more noticeable while the dose is being increased.
| Common side effect | What usually helps |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Smaller meals, eating slowly, avoiding greasy food |
| Constipation | More water, fibre and daily movement |
| Reflux or indigestion | Not lying down right after eating, lighter evening meals |
| Reduced appetite | Prioritising protein to help preserve muscle |
Discuss with a clinician first if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2, have had pancreatitis, have gallbladder or kidney problems, are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy, or take insulin or other diabetes medication. Seek prompt medical care for severe abdominal pain, ongoing vomiting or signs of dehydration.
How to Get the Most Out of Treatment
- Eat enough protein. When appetite drops, protein helps protect muscle mass.
- Stay hydrated. It eases constipation and helps with nausea.
- Add strength training. Two or three sessions a week supports muscle and metabolism.
- Follow the dose schedule. Gradual increases reduce side effects.
- Keep your provider informed. Report side effects and medication changes promptly.
See if you qualify
Take the short Fridays eligibility quiz. A licensed provider decides whether treatment is right for you.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Prescription medications require evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider, and eligibility depends on your health history. The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, effectiveness or manufacturing quality. Clinical trial figures refer to FDA-approved brand-name medications. Individual results vary.
Wellness Top 10 is an independent publisher and is not a medical provider. Pricing and features are based on information published by the provider at the time of writing and may change. This page contains affiliate links; we may earn a commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you. Read our Affiliate Disclosure.
