Head-to-head · WeighScore
1st Optimal vs Transparent Meds
The verdict
Transparent Meds takes it — 61.9/100 to 61.6/100, but only just.
Transparent Meds grades higher on WeighScore, our editorial score across cost value, dose & formulation, clinical oversight, labs & monitoring, fulfillment and contract terms. Transparent Meds is an online GLP-1 weight-care service that connects you with licensed medical providers and leads with upfront pricing: compounded weekly injections of semaglutide at an intro $149/month… 1st Optimal is close behind and may still be the better fit — see the factor split below.
We may earn a commission if you start care through some of these links, at no extra cost to you. It never moves the WeighScore, which is the weighted average of the six factors shown for every provider, and what we write about a provider is the same either way. See our disclosure.
Factor by factor
The same six graded dimensions, side by side. See the methodology.
The numbers
| Metric | 1st Optimal | Transparent Meds |
|---|---|---|
| WeighScore | 61.6/100 | 61.9/100 |
| Grade | C | C |
| Scorecard rank | #288 | #282 |
| Semaglutide | Not disclosed | $229/mo (promotional rate, compounded) |
| Tirzepatide | Not disclosed | $349/mo (compounded) |
| Coverage | Coverage not published | Coverage not published |
| Brand-name access | Compounded only | Yes |
| Oral / sublingual | Yes | Injection only |
Graded #288 · C
Strengths
- Offers both semaglutide and tirzepatide with injectable and oral formats
- Functional-medicine approach with at-home labs and blood-work interpretation
- Unlimited coaching and ongoing support included
- No long-term contracts
- Board-certified doctors and nurse practitioners referenced
Where it loses points
- No public monthly pricing disclosed
- No published state availability list
- Compounded vs branded sourcing not clarified on site
- Pricing only revealed after quiz or consultation
Graded #282 · C
Strengths
- Transparent, upfront monthly pricing — intro $149/mo for compounded semaglutide and $249/mo for tirzepatide (regular $229 / $349)
- Clean, modern telehealth experience with a quick eligibility quiz and clinician review before any prescription
- HIPAA-compliant and displays a LegitScript-style verification seal
Where it loses points
- Headline prices are intro first-month fees — the regular monthly cost is higher ($229 semaglutide, $349 tirzepatide)
- Connector model that pairs you with licensed providers; it doesn't name its compounding pharmacy
- Doesn't publish the states it serves, so confirm availability before signing up
- Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide injections only — no oral, brand-name, or insurance options
Also worth a look
Neither is our top-graded pick — CoreAge Rx leads the scorecard
Across all 499 providers, CoreAge Rx grades highest at 91.8/100 (A−). Top of the scorecard: flat transparent pricing, both molecules, nationwide — no teaser-rate games.
Pricing/verification reflect each provider's public disclosures at last grading; the WeighScore is our editorial judgment per the methodology. Prices change — confirm on each provider's site. Not medical advice; see our disclosure.