Getting a weight loss prescription in Canada used to mean booking an in-person appointment, waiting weeks, and hoping your doctor was open to the conversation. Telehealth has changed that. Felix and Maple are two of the biggest names in Canadian telehealth, and both offer paths to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Saxenda. But they work differently.
I've used both platforms and researched their processes thoroughly. Here's an honest comparison.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Felix | Maple |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Platform type | Health-focused (weight loss, sexual health, etc.) | General telehealth + weight loss |
| Consultation model | Asynchronous (text-based) | Video or text with doctor |
| Initial consultation fee | ~$49 | ~$49-$99 |
| Follow-up costs | Included in monthly plan | Per visit or subscription |
| Provinces served | All provinces | All provinces |
| Medications available | Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, Contrave, Mounjaro | Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, Contrave, Mounjaro |
| Pharmacy integration | Partner pharmacies + any pharmacy | Prescription sent to your pharmacy |
How Felix Works
Felix (felixforyou.ca) started as a telehealth platform focused on specific health categories. Their weight loss program is one of their most popular offerings. The process is straightforward:
- You fill out an online health assessment with your medical history, current medications, BMI, and weight loss goals
- A licensed Canadian healthcare practitioner reviews your assessment (usually within 24-48 hours)
- If appropriate, they prescribe medication and send it to your preferred pharmacy or a Felix partner pharmacy
- Follow-up check-ins are included in the monthly subscription fee
Felix's model is mostly asynchronous. You communicate through their messaging system rather than live video calls. This is convenient if you have a busy schedule, but some patients prefer face-to-face interaction.
How Maple Works
Maple (getmaple.ca) is a general telehealth platform that connects patients with Canadian doctors for a wide range of health concerns. Weight loss is one of many services they offer.
- You can book a consultation specifically for weight management
- Appointments are typically live video or text chat with a physician
- The doctor evaluates your situation and can prescribe weight loss medication if appropriate
- Prescriptions are sent to any pharmacy in your province
Maple's advantage is flexibility. Because it's a full telehealth service, you can also see doctors for other health issues through the same platform. Many employer benefits plans now cover Maple consultations, which can reduce or eliminate the consultation fee.
Weight Loss Results
Neither platform manufactures or dispenses medication directly. Your weight loss results depend on which medication you're prescribed, not which telehealth platform you use. Both Felix and Maple can prescribe the same GLP-1 medications.
The real difference is in the support structure. Felix's weight loss program includes structured follow-ups and check-ins designed specifically for patients on weight management medication. Maple's follow-ups are more general and depend on you booking subsequent appointments.
Cost in Canada
| Cost Factor | Felix | Maple |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Initial consultation | ~$49 | ~$49-$99 |
| Monthly subscription | ~$29-$49/month | ~$30-$50/month or per-visit |
| Follow-up appointments | Included | May require additional payment |
| Employer benefits coverage | Some plans | Widely covered |
| Medication cost | Separate (at pharmacy) | Separate (at pharmacy) |
Remember, the consultation fee is separate from the medication cost. Ozempic, Wegovy, or whichever medication you're prescribed will cost the same regardless of which platform writes the prescription.
Side Effects Comparison
Side effects depend on the medication, not the platform. Both Felix and Maple prescribe the same drugs. What differs is how each platform handles side effect management:
Felix includes regular check-ins as part of the subscription. If you're experiencing nausea or other GI side effects, you can message your practitioner through the platform and get guidance on dose adjustments.
Maple requires booking a new consultation or follow-up visit to discuss side effects. If you're on a per-visit plan, this means an additional cost. Subscription members can message their care team.
Insurance and Coverage
Neither Felix nor Maple is covered by provincial health insurance (OHIP, RAMQ, etc.) for weight loss consultations. However, Maple has partnerships with a large number of Canadian employers and benefits providers. If your workplace offers Maple as a benefit, your consultations may be fully covered.
Felix consultations are generally paid out of pocket, though some extended health benefits plans reimburse telehealth consultations. Check with your benefits provider.
The medication itself is a separate insurance question. Whether your plan covers Ozempic or Wegovy has nothing to do with which telehealth platform prescribed it.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Felix if: Weight loss is your primary reason for using telehealth. Felix's structured program, included follow-ups, and weight-loss-specific approach make it a better fit for patients who want a dedicated weight management experience.
Choose Maple if: You want a telehealth platform for multiple health needs, your employer covers Maple visits, or you prefer live video consultations with a physician. Maple's broader scope makes it more versatile.
For more telehealth options, see our reviews of Hims & Hers Canada and DooU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Felix or Maple prescribe Ozempic for weight loss?
Yes. Both platforms have licensed physicians who can prescribe Ozempic off-label for weight loss. The doctor will evaluate your BMI, health history, and other factors before deciding if it's appropriate.
Are Felix and Maple available in all provinces?
Both platforms serve patients across all Canadian provinces. Availability of specific services may vary slightly by province due to regulatory differences, but weight loss consultations are broadly available on both.
How fast can I get a prescription?
Felix typically provides a response within 24-48 hours since consultations are asynchronous. Maple can be faster if a doctor is available for an immediate video call. In both cases, the prescription is usually sent to your pharmacy the same day it's written.