1st Optimal vs MEDVi
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 programMEDVi
Best for patients who want the option to switch between compounded and brand-name GLP-1 through one providerStarting at $179/mo
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 1st Optimal | MEDVi |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 6.7/10 | ✓7.6/10 |
| Starting Price | — | $179/mo |
| Editorial Rating | 3.4 ★ /5 | ✓3.8 ★ /5 |
| Features | ✓8 features | 7 features |
| States Available | 0 | ✓48 |
| 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
MEDVi
Pros
- ✓Both compounded and brand-name (Wegovy, Zepbound) GLP-1 options in one platform
- ✓Oral tablet and injectable formats
- ✓Named US pharmacy partners (Triad Rx, Precision Medicine, RedRock Pharmacy, Beaker Pharmacy & Compounding)
- ✓Clinical oversight through OpenLoop Health provider network and CareGLP Affiliated P.C.s
- ✓Direct-to-home shipping with 24/7 support
Cons
- ✗Refill price for compounded GLP-1 injection ($299) steps up significantly from $179 first-month offer
- ✗Not available in Mississippi or North Dakota (telehealth regulation constraints)
- ✗Alabama and California patients can only receive injectable formats, not tablets, per state law
- ✗Kansas, Indiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and West Virginia require a synchronous provider visit before prescribing
- ✗No LegitScript or PCAB certification disclosed on the site
Our Verdict
MEDVi edges out 1st Optimal with a higher overall score of 7.6/10 and is particularly strong for patients who want the option to switch between compounded and brand-name GLP-1 through one 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 MEDVi head-to-heads in the same category.
- 1st Optimal vs CoreAge Rx
- 1st Optimal vs TrimRx
- 1st Optimal vs Amazon One Medical
- MEDVi vs NovoCare Pharmacy
- MEDVi vs Vytora Health
- MEDVi 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.