Affordable weight loss with medical support in the Netherlands
Medical weight loss doesn't have to be expensive. Compare the costs of every option in the Netherlands: from dietitians to compounding pharmacies. Discover the affordable alternative.
Medical weight loss: what are your options and what does it cost?
You've decided you want medical support for weight loss. Smart. But the costs add up quickly. Here's an honest overview of what you pay in the Netherlands — and how you can save wisely.
All options at a glance
| Option | Cost/month | Doctor needed? | Reimbursed? | Personalised? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dietitian | €0-90 (first 3 hrs/year reimbursed) | No | Yes (partly) | Partly |
| Online programme | €10-25 | No | No | No |
| GLI programme | €0 (reimbursed) | Yes, referral | Yes | Partly |
| Branded medications | €150-500 | Yes | Mostly not (2026) | No (standard) |
| Compounding | Set independently with your pharmacy | Yes (arranged independently) | Not applicable | Yes (personalised) |
Sources — dietitian: zorgverzekeringwijzer.nl (14 Nov 2025: 3 hours of dietary advice per calendar year reimbursed from the basic package in 2026, deductible applies; €60-90 per one-hour consultation). Online programme: weightwatchers.com/nl (Standard €25/month; €10/month as a 60%-off promotion on a 12-month commitment; read 6 Sep 2026). Branded medication: overstappen.nl, zorgwijzer.nl, Zorginstituut Nederland (see our article on medication that is not reimbursed). *Updated 2026-09-06: "Dietitian €0-30" now states the €60-90 consultation cost that applies beyond the 3 reimbursed hours; "Online programme €30-60" was above WeightWatchers' Dutch price.*
Why do people choose compounding?
1. No brand markup
Compounding uses the same active ingredients as branded products without the brand's manufacturing, marketing and patent costs — ask your pharmacy for a quote to compare against branded pricing.
2. It's personalised
No standard pill that's the same for everyone. Your pharmacist creates a treatment tailored to your weight, your health and your goals.
3. No GP referral required
Compounding pharmacies can work from an independent BIG-registered doctor's assessment. You don't need to visit your GP first for a referral — but you do need to arrange that independent doctor's assessment yourself; Magistra does not provide or arrange it.
4. It's safe and legal
Compounding pharmacies in the Netherlands are BIG-registered, IGJ-inspected and operate according to KNMP standards. This is not a grey market — it's standard, licensed pharmacy practice.
5. It's delivered to your door
Discreetly, in plain packaging, within 2-3 working days. No awkward visit to the pharmacy.
Who is this suitable for?
Compounding via Magistra is suitable if you:
What Magistra actually offers
Magistra does not run a questionnaire, doctor-assessment, or pharmacy-matching service. Check our free predictor tool for a personalised view of expected side effects and outcomes, then take that — and this article — to your own doctor or a licensed compounding pharmacy to discuss whether it is right for you. No product is sold or arranged through Magistra.
No referral needed. No waiting list. No obligation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No — but Magistra does not arrange that assessment either. You would need to see a doctor independently.
What if I'm already taking other medication?
That's exactly the kind of thing to raise with the independent doctor you see — Magistra doesn't run an assessment to take it into account.
Can I combine this with a dietitian?
Yes, that's even recommended. Medication works best in combination with healthy eating and exercise.
Try the free predictor: magistra.health/en/predictor
Magistra is a technology platform. All medical services are provided by independent, registered healthcare professionals and pharmacies. Results may vary.
See your own numbers
Our free predictor estimates your side-effect risk and weight trajectory, with the stated rates and distinct sources shown behind every figure. No signup required.
Open the predictorWorking from the data itself? The dated snapshot behind these figures is available as a one-off purchase, alongside the free public API: Data & API.