WeightWatchers, a digital weight loss and management company, has launched a new program to support those taking GLP-1 medications. In addition, WeightWatchers Clinic is now available and gives access to a care team and offers medication management support. WeightWatchers Clinic is the product integration of Sequence, a telehealth company that WeightWatchers recently acquired.
New York City-based WeightWatchers is a wellness company that combines technology and community support to help people lose weight and improve their fitness. It leverages behavioral health tactics, like a point tracking system, to encourage mindful eating.
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The company’s new GLP-1 program supports those already taking GLP-1s (including if they were prescribed by a physician outside of WeightWatchers). It provides daily nutritional and activity targets, recommended foods, recipes, food and activity tracking, a digital community, virtual workshops and access to coaches 24/7.
“The GLP-1 Program is designed to assist individuals in making these distinct behavioral changes, emphasizing the consumption of nutrient-dense foods, adequate hydration, and consistent physical activity — especially directed towards muscle-building — to enhance well-being throughout the GLP-1 medication journey,” said Dr. Spencer Nadolsky, WeightWatchers medical director, in an email.
WeightWatchers Clinic, meanwhile, is beneficial for those who are seeking a provider and gives access to weight loss medications if considered appropriate. It offers more clinical support through a care team that includes a care coordinator, registered dietitian, fitness specialist and a clinician. It provides medication management services to help with dosage and refills. In addition, those taking GLP-1s can gain access to the WeightWatchers GLP-1 program.
Both the GLP-1 program and WeightWatchers Clinic are accessible in the company’s app. They’re available direct-to-consumer, as well as for employers, payers and providers. For consumers, the GLP-1 program starts at $23 a month, while WeightWatchers Clinic costs $99 a month but doesn’t include the cost of prescription medications.
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Although GLP-1s have proven effective in helping people lose weight, the FDA recommends using them alongside lifestyle changes like diet and exercise.
“Lifestyle factors such as food, activity, sleep, and mindset serve as the foundation for any weight-loss treatment,” Nadolsky said. “This holds true for members taking prescription weight-management medications, which are intended to be complemented by a behavior change program.”
By offering these programs, WeightWatchers ultimately aims to help people build sustainable wellbeing habits, Nadolsky added.
Several other companies have launched programs for those taking GLP-1s, including Omada, which isn’t prescribing GLP-1s itself but is providing behavior change support. Noom also has a program called Noom Med that gives access to GLP-1s and nutrition and exercise tools.
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