Noom, the digital healthcare company focused on chronic disease prevention, has announced the addition of oral medications to its Noom Med offerings, starting with Metformin for weight loss treatment.
Metformin is a common medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes that may be prescribed off-label when clinically appropriate to aid weight loss. The medication works by reducing appetite and enhancing insulin sensitivity, helping to lower blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
The new program begins at $29 for the first month, followed by an $89 monthly fee as part of a three-month recurring subscription. This initiative provides a new pathway for individuals seeking weight loss solutions, particularly those who may have needle concerns or don’t meet the BMI requirements for GLP-1 treatments.
Geoff Cook, Chief Executive Officer of Noom, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the program: “This product is about more than a pill. It represents lasting change and includes Noom’s complete weight loss program. Combining medication with behavior change is powerful because the patient is more likely to experience early success, leading to a greater likelihood to stick with the program and transform a new habit into permanent lifestyle change. With the addition of oral medications, we provide a meaningful weight loss treatment option at a lower price. Metformin is widely available as a generic medication, making it an affordable option for people who need it. It’s a choice for people who don’t want to take GLP-1 injections because of needle concerns, have a lower BMI (<27), or are ready to transition off of GLP-1 treatment. We want to provide affordable, accessible choices that empower everyone, everywhere, to live better longer.”
The program will offer Metformin as a 500mg daily tablet, with customized dosing schedules for weight loss. Patients must first undergo a medical review by Noom doctors to confirm their clinical eligibility, after which the medication will be shipped within 7 days.
Dr. Adonis Saremi, Chief Medical Officer of Noom, explained the science behind the medication: “Metformin is an FDA-approved medication that has been used to treat type 2 diabetes for over half a century. It has also been prescribed off-label for weight loss for its ability to increase levels of what researchers call an ‘anti-hunger’ molecule. This is the same molecule that is produced after vigorous exercise, a time when hunger is naturally suppressed. Metformin also helps lower glucose production and improves insulin sensitivity, both of which aid in weight loss. It also stabilizes blood sugar, which normalizes insulin levels, helping to burn fat.”
The program includes comprehensive features of Noom Med, such as asynchronous telehealth services, care coordinator access, Noom Weight, premium one-on-one coaching, and medication fulfillment through Noom’s partner pharmacies. All these services are enhanced by Noom’s Medication Companion with Muscle Defense.