OP here — wow, did not expect this much response! Thank you all for the thoughtful replies on Is there a simple version.

To answer tyler_CSCS: my doctor and I discussed the options and went with brand.

Quick update: I have noticed more improvement since posting this. Thanks again for the evidence-based discussion — this is exactly why I posted in a science-based community. 🙏

Can confirm — same results here.

Slightly tangential to Is there a simple version but tyler_CSCS reminded me — has the insurance landscape changed recently?

I know it is not exactly on-topic but it seems related enough to ask here rather than starting a new thread. Apologies if this has been covered — I did search first.

Subscribing to this thread. Is there a simple version is exactly what I've been researching. 🙏

Slightly tangential to Is there a simple version but tyler_CSCS reminded me — does anyone have experience combining this with metformin?

I know it is not exactly on-topic but it seems related enough to ask here rather than starting a new thread. Apologies if this has been covered — I did search first.