1st Optimal vs Helios Meds
An in-depth comparison of two leading GLP-1 Providers
WeightLossRankings.org is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more
1st Optimal
Best for Patients wanting GLP-1 therapy within a lab-driven functional-medicine programHelios Meds
Best for Transparent low-cost compounded semaglutide from a LegitScript-approved telehealth providerStarting at $149.99/mo
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 1st Optimal | Helios Meds |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 6.7/10 | ✓7.0/10 |
| Starting Price | — | $149.99/mo |
| Editorial Rating | 3.4 ★ /5 | ✓3.5 ★ /5 |
| Features | 8 features | 8 features |
| States Available | 0 | 0 |
| Compounded | — | ✓ Yes |
| Brand Name | — | — |
| FSA/HSA Accepted | — | — |
| FDA Warnings | None | None |
Pros & Cons
1st Optimal
Pros
- ✓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
Cons
- ✗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
Helios Meds
Pros
- ✓Transparent compounded pricing: semaglutide from $149.99/month
- ✓Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide via online provider review
- ✓LegitScript-approved with US board-certified physicians
- ✓Discreet shipping
Cons
- ✗Compounded GLP-1s are not FDA-approved finished products
- ✗Tirzepatide is relatively pricey at $349.97/month
- ✗Public state list is not enumerated
- ✗Cash-pay only — no insurance billing
Our Verdict
Helios Meds edges out 1st Optimal with a higher overall score of 7.0/10 and is particularly strong for Transparent low-cost compounded semaglutide from a LegitScript-approved telehealth provider. 1st Optimal remains a solid alternative, especially if you're looking for Patients wanting GLP-1 therapy within a lab-driven functional-medicine program.
Glossary references
Key terms in this article, linked to their canonical definitions.
- Semaglutide · Drugs and brands
- Tirzepatide · Drugs and brands
- Compounded GLP-1 · Pharmacy and drug forms
- 503A pharmacy · Pharmacy and drug forms
- PCAB accreditation · Pharmacy and drug forms
- Prior authorization (PA) · Insurance and regulatory
- Off-label use · Insurance and regulatory
- FDA Drug Shortage List · Insurance and regulatory
Related comparisons
Continue exploring 1st Optimal and Helios Meds head-to-heads in the same category.
- 1st Optimal vs CoreAge Rx
- 1st Optimal vs TrimRx
- 1st Optimal vs Amazon One Medical
- Helios Meds vs NovoCare Pharmacy
- Helios Meds vs Vytora Health
- Helios Meds vs Enhance MD
Or see the full category ranking.
Wegovy®, Ozempic®, and Rybelsus® are trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. All other product names and trademarks referenced on this page belong to their respective owners. WeightLossRankings.org is not affiliated with any pharmaceutical manufacturer. See trademark disclaimer.