Mochi Health is a telehealth company that specializes in personalized obesity management, offering customized weight loss treatment plans, including access to prescription weight loss medications. Founded in 2022 and based in San Francisco, Mochi Health was created by Myra Ahmad, M.D., an obesity medicine physician. Forbes Health rated Mochi Health 4.5 out of 5 stars, citing the platform’s excellent usability, personalized coaching, 24/7 access to support, provider and dietitian oversight, low cost, and high level of care.
Understanding Peptides and Weight Loss
Peptides are short chains of amino acids essential for protein formation and play critical roles in the body's biological functions. Peptides are increasingly being explored and prescribed for various health conditions due to their targeted therapeutic effects and potential benefits. Their therapeutic applications are expanding across different medical disciplines to help improve conditions like type 1 and 2 diabetes, obesity, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), HIV/AIDS, various skin disorders, and even certain types of cancers.
Peptide-based medications, such as the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, including semaglutide (brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy), liraglutide (brand name Saxenda) tirzepatide (brand names Mounjaro® and Zepbound) have helped millions manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. Originally prescribed to help lower blood sugar among type 2 diabetics, these innovative medications have more recently gained traction for their ability to aid in drastic weight loss among those struggling with overweight or obesity. These peptide-based medications mimic the action of the naturally occurring GLP-1 receptors, which help regulate insulin and glucagon levels to improve glucose control while simultaneously acting as an appetite suppressant to achieve weight loss.
Mochi Health Programs and Features
Mochi Health offers two subscription-based weight loss programs: Mochi Health Membership and Wellness Plus Membership. The Mochi Health membership is accessible to anyone regardless of insurance coverage, while the Wellness Plus membership is only accessible to those with an in-network insurance plan. Both memberships include access to personalized weight loss care from a board-certified physician and registered dietitian, one-on-one virtual visits, a customized weight loss plan, regular progress check-ins, direct messaging, and access to weight loss medications (not included in the membership cost).
Virtual visits, ongoing support, and data-driven tracking make healthy change convenient and sustainable from the very first step. Brittany, Forbes Health’s platform tester, raved about her experience with Mochi Health. She highlighted the ease of onboarding, stating, “It did not take me too long to set up [an account]. Brittany appreciated the availability of resources, including a chatbot that provides detailed responses to questions about memberships, medications, providers and more. She appreciated tailored information, such as tips for holiday eating and other practical weight loss guidance. “The best aspects of the Mochi Weight Loss platform were the tailored approach they had, the ease of use and also the long list of helpful materials provided,” summarized Brittany, who has struggled with weight for many years before using GLP-1 medications.
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GLP-1 Medications and How They Work
GLP-1 medications (semaglutide and tirzepatide) are the main offerings of Mochi Health. These medications work by mimicking a natural hormone, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), that helps regulate appetite, slow digestion, and make you feel fuller, decreasing food intake. Tirzepatide also mimics glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which further helps with blood sugar control and weight management. The brand-name versions of these weight loss drugs, Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are FDA-approved for weight loss.
Weight Loss Potential with Peptides
The amount of weight you can lose on peptides depends on various factors, including your diet, exercise routine, metabolism, and medication. Most studies examining the effects of GLP-1 medications on weight loss have also required all participants to partake in moderate daily physical activity (i.e., brisk walking for about 20 minutes a day), regularly scheduled check-ins with a licensed dietitian or healthcare professional, and adherence to a healthy, calorie-restricted diet throughout the duration of the study. These peptides work best when combined with daily physical activity and a balanced diet.
The STEP trial enrolled over 1900 adults with 1) obesity or 2) overweight plus a weight-related condition excluding diabetes (i.e., high blood pressure, high cholesterol) and randomly assigned them to 68 weeks of treatment with semaglutide or a placebo, in addition to lifestyle intervention. Participants in the treatment group experienced an average weight reduction of 14.9% as compared to 2.4% in the placebo group. This same study reported that 86% of participants using semaglutide lost at least 5% of their body weight.
The SURMOUNT trial enrolled over 2,500 participants with 1) obesity or 2) overweight plus a weight-related condition excluding diabetes and examined the effects of tirzepatide on weight. Participants received either tirzepatide (in varying doses) or a placebo, and all underwent lifestyle intervention. The study found that at 72 weeks, tirzepatide lost significantly more weight than those in the placebo group:
- 5mg weekly doses of tirzepatide: average loss of 15% of body weight
- 10mg weekly doses of tirzepatide: average loss of 19.5% of body weight
- 15mg weekly doses of tirzepatide: average loss of 20.9% of body weight
- Placebo group: average loss of 3.1% of body weight
A more recent study examined over eighteen thousand overweight or obese adults entered into the US electronic health database who were on either tirzepatide (brand names: Mounjaro® and Zepbound) or semaglutide (Ozempic® and Wegovy). This study found that among these patients, tirzepatide demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes compared to semaglutide at various lengths of treatment over the course of a year.
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The study revealed that a majority of individuals using either tirzepatide or semaglutide achieved significant weight loss, with at least a 5% reduction in initial body weight after one year of treatment, though, again, tirzepatide was superior:
- ≥ 5% weight loss within 1 year: 82% of tirzepatide users vs 67% of semaglutide users
- ≥ 10% weight loss within 1 year: 62% of tirzepatide users vs 37% of semaglutide users
- ≥ 15% weight loss within 1 year: 42% of tirzepatide users vs 18% of semaglutide users
How Mochi Health Works
- Complete a brief survey: Mochi platform users answer a series of basic questions and provide personal contact information, height, weight, gender, current health conditions (such as high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure), whether they’ve taken prescription weight loss medications in the past six months, and if they have insurance coverage.
- Choose a plan and schedule a provider visit: Before meeting with a provider, anyone not using insurance must select a Mochi Health membership plan from four options: one month, three months, six months, or one year. Payment is collected up front and does not include the cost of medication. For those with in-network insurance, the Wellness Plus plan is available. It offers additional services, such as health risk assessments, health monitoring, and customized diet plans.
- Have a virtual visit with a Mochi Health provider: Using the information collected with the intake forms, users will meet with a board-certified obesity medicine provider and registered dietitian to discuss their eligibility and get medication recommendations tailored to their goals, according to the company.
- Get medication: Once the virtual visit has been completed, those who are approved will receive their medication. If obtaining medication through Mochi Health, the medication is a compounded version at the advertised rate of $99 per month for Compounded GLP-1 medication or $199 per month for Compounded GLP-1/GIP medication.
- Receive ongoing support: To obtain prescription GLP-1 medications from Mochi Health, users must have a BMI of at least 30 or a BMI of 25 or more plus one weight-related health condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes.
Membership and Medication Costs
- Mochi Health Membership: This plan includes virtual video sessions with a board-certified physician and access to weight loss medication (billed at an additional cost). It costs $79 for one month or $66 per month for those interested in a longer commitment-three, six or twelve months billed up front at $199, $399 or $799, respectively.
- Wellness Plus Membership: Individuals with health insurance coverage that is in-network with Mochi Health can access this plan, which includes the same services as the Mochi Health Membership plus additional features, such as medical risk assessments and nutrition therapy. It is billed up front at $69 for one month, or $169 for a three-month contract ($56/month), $299 for a six-month contract ($49 per month) and $589 for a 12-month contract ($49/month).
- Medication: Mochi Health offers compounded medications at two price points: $99 per month for semaglutide and $199 per month for compounded tirzepatide. Insurance coverage is accepted for the Wellness Plan; however, government plans like Medicaid and Medicare are not.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
The FDA warns that compounded medications, which have not been assessed for safety, effectiveness, or quality before being sold to consumers, come with risks. Potential long-term adverse effects of GLP-1s include gallbladder issues, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), bowel obstruction, kidney problems, and muscle loss.
The FDA issued black box warnings, its highest safety alert, for semaglutide and tirzepatide because they may lead to an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Additionally, GLP-1s can cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder issues, and intestinal blockages. They can also cause reduced blood flow to the kidneys, potentially impairing kidney function and injury.
Overall, peptides do not usually cause serious side effects. The most commonly reported side effects of GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset. These side effects are generally mild to moderate and go away with time as your body gets used to the new medication.
Prescription Requirements for Peptides
In many cases, peptides for weight loss require a prescription for legal and safety reasons. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a qualified professional specializing in peptide therapy to determine the most suitable peptide regimen for your weight loss goals.
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Mochi Health vs. Other Weight Loss Clinics
Unlike many telehealth clinics that rely on general nurse practitioners or PAs, Mochi Health is founded and run by board-certified healthcare providers, ensuring evidence-based care.
- ShedRx: Provides more flexibility for uninsured patients, with compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide options from $199-$699/month, available as injections, lozenges, or oral drops. Labs and coaching cost extra unless you upgrade to the VIP plan.
- Found: Focuses on community support and behavioral coaching, starting at $39/month (excluding medication). Compounded semaglutide is available from $189/month, but there’s less medical supervision than Mochi Health provides.
- Henry Meds: Keeps things simple and affordable, offering compounded semaglutide injections from $297/month and oral versions from $249/month, including consults, meds, and shipping, but without coaching or lifestyle support.
- Ro Body Program: Combines GLP-1 prescriptions with personalized nutrition coaching, regular check-ins, and expert medical oversight. Unlike clinics that focus only on medication, Ro prioritizes lasting results through education and continued accountability.
What’s Included in Mochi Health’s GLP-1 Membership?
Mochi keeps its plans straightforward and transparent. Here’s exactly what’s covered:
- 24/7 patient support
- Initial telehealth consultation with a board-certified healthcare provider
- Access to registered dietitians for nutrition support
- Ongoing follow-ups to track progress and adjust medication doses
- Insurance support and prior authorization assistance for brand-name meds
- Free shipping of medication
Here’s what you won’t find built into Mochi Health’s plans:
- Lab work
- Return and refund flexibility
- Medication and service costs
Who Should Use Mochi Health?
Mochi Health is best for patients who want comprehensive medical supervision. Unlike quick-prescription telehealth sites, Mochi Health takes a clinical approach. You’ll work directly with board-certified healthcare providers and registered dietitians to build a personalized plan that combines GLP-1s like semaglutide or tirzepatide with nutrition and lifestyle support.
Because Mochi Health includes insurance support, it’s ideal for patients looking for maximum coverage. Mochi specializes in helping patients use insurance for brand-name GLP-1 medications. Providers assist with prior authorizations to help reduce out-of-pocket costs, and HSA/FSA funds can often be applied toward visits and labs.
It is a great fit for people who value 24/7 accessibility and virtual convenience. Mochi’s fully virtual platform lets you meet with a provider via video within a week and gives you 24/7 messaging access for ongoing support.
Mochi Health is perfect for those seeking structure and medical accountability. Through its Health+Medication and Wellness Plus plans, Mochi offers check-ins, behavioral coaching, and nutrition planning. This makes it a good choice for patients who want ongoing motivation and expert guidance rather than those who are comfortable managing their own treatment.
Who Is Mochi Health Not For?
Mochi Health isn’t the best choice for patients seeking the absolute lowest out-of-pocket costs. Since it’s designed around insurance integration, uninsured or budget-conscious individuals may find the lack of clear cash pricing less appealing than options like Henry Meds, which offers more predictable all-inclusive rates.
If you’re looking for a quick prescription without coaching or follow-ups, Mochi’s integrated, provider-led model might feel too involved. The program emphasizes lifestyle change and long-term outcomes rather than short-term medication access.
Finally, Mochi isn’t ideal for patients who prefer compounded GLP-1s as their only treatment option. While compounded medications are available when clinically appropriate, Mochi Health focuses primarily on FDA-approved brand-name GLP-1s.
Real User Experience With Mochi Health
Overall, patients praise Mochi Health for its easy setup process, timely medication deliveries, and knowledgeable providers. Many highlight how clearly the practitioners explain treatment options, making the experience feel professional, supportive, and well-organized from start to finish.
However, some reviews are less positive. A few patients reported issues with delayed medication shipments from Aequita, Mochi’s partner compounding pharmacy, and said customer service was slow to resolve problems.