Drug Pricing
28 articles on Drug Pricing, researched and written by the Shotlee Editorial Team from primary sources.
Medicare's New GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drug Program: What to Know
Medicare is launching a new pilot program to increase access to GLP-1 medications for weight loss, offering a $50 monthly copay for eligible beneficiaries. This marks a significant step in covering obesity as a medical condition.
9 min read
Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro: Navigating the New GLP-1 Landscape
The landscape of GLP-1 medications for weight loss and chronic disease management is rapidly evolving. From new access programs to shifting pricing dynamics, understanding these advancements is crucial for patients and healthcare providers alike.
6 min read
Supreme Court Ruling: Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Move Forward
In a significant victory for healthcare cost containment, the Supreme Court has allowed Medicare to proceed with negotiating drug prices. This decision upholds a key provision of the Inflation Reduction Act and could impact the cost of many prescription medications, including widely used GLP-1 agonists.
6 min read
Navigating Prescription Drug Coupons: Savings or Hidden Costs?
Prescription drug coupons can seem like a straightforward way to save money. However, for individuals with health insurance, these discounts can come with unexpected financial implications. This article delves into the nuances of manufacturer-sponsored coupons, their impact on insurance plans, and how to make informed decisions at the pharmacy counter.
7 min read
Understanding the Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) PBS Standoff and What It Means for Patients
Eli Lilly has declined to list its highly effective GLP-1/GIP agonist, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) in Australia, citing disagreements over pricing. This decision has significant implications for patients seeking access to this crucial medication for type 2 diabetes and increasingly, for weight management.
6 min read
Wegovy's New Subscription Saves Up to $1,200/Year – Not for Everyone
Novo Nordisk has launched a new subscription program for Wegovy, promising up to $1,200 in yearly savings on injections to help patients maintain access to this GLP-1 obesity drug. With plans starting at $249 per month for 12 months, it targets self-pay users facing cost uncertainty. But eligibility limits mean it's not for everyone—here's what you need to know.
4 min read
PPH ETF: Drug Pricing Policy & Eli Lilly Risks in 2026
The VanEck Pharmaceutical ETF (PPH) offers broad pharma exposure but faces headwinds from U.S. drug pricing reforms and heavy Eli Lilly weighting. Down 8% in the past month despite 15% one-year gains, PPH's diversification is tested. Key risks include MFN pricing deals and GLP-1 competition.
5 min read
GLP-1s Insurance Pricing Challenges: Q&A with Whitney Stidom
High demand for GLP-1 medications meets steep pricing and insurance hurdles. In this Q&A, eHealth's Whitney Stidom reveals why 55% of employers cover GLP-1s for diabetes but only 36% for weight loss, plus upcoming policy changes capping costs at $245 monthly for Medicare enrollees. Discover actionable insights on affordability and access.
6 min read
The Himsification of Medicine: Super Bowl Ad & Semaglutide Clash
Hims & Hers made waves with a Super Bowl ad promoting preventive care through tailored prescriptions and peptides for everyday Americans. But announcing compounded oral semaglutide triggered an FDA investigation and a swift lawsuit from Novo Nordisk. The quick settlement highlights battles over GLP-1 access and drug pricing.
4 min read
Best-Selling Drugs in the US: 2024 Sales Ranking
In 2024, the US pharmaceutical market crowned Keytruda (Merck & Co.) as the top-selling drug with $17.87 billion in revenue, according to Statista's 'Top pharmaceutical drugs' report. Oncology treatments like Keytruda lead, followed by diabetes heavyweights Ozempic and Mounjaro. This ranking underscores the shift toward biologics for cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.
5 min read
Eli Lilly Shares Face Pressure Amid GLP-1 Market Shifts
Eli Lilly posted blockbuster Q4 2025 results with $19.29B revenue, yet shares near $1,020 face selling pressure from compounded semaglutide competition and government pricing initiatives. Hims & Hers' $49 pill undercuts Zepbound's $299 intro dose, signaling shifts in the GLP-1 market. Investors eye Orforglipron's FDA decision amid pipeline cuts.
5 min read
Hims & Hers $49 Weight-Loss Pill Jolts Industry, Stock Drops
Hims & Hers launched a $49-a-month compounded version of Novo Nordisk's Wegovy, promising affordable GLP-1 weight-loss treatment amid shortages. Yet, despite an initial 14% stock surge, shares closed down 4% as FDA scrutiny loomed. This move highlights tensions in the booming obesity drug market and accessibility challenges for patients.
5 min read
Novo Nordisk Stock Plunges 18% After Ozempic Sales Warning
Shares in Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, plunged 18% after a sales warning flagged up to 13% decline in the US market due to falling GLP-1 drug prices. Despite 2025 sales growth of 6% to 309 billion kronor, the stock wipeout erased $32 billion in value. CEO Mike Doustdar highlights the upcoming Wegovy pill as a key future driver.
5 min read
Why Ozempic & GLP-1s Cost More in the US: A Guide
A 54-year-old father walked away from his $997 Ozempic prescription due to sky-high costs. GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro offer transformative benefits for diabetes and obesity, yet US prices make them unaffordable for millions. This guide breaks down the pricing crisis, clinical value, and paths to reform.
4 min read
Calgary Doctor Claims Generic Ozempic and Wegovy Drugs May Cut Costs by One-Third
According to a Calgary doctor, affordable generic alternatives to drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy might reduce expenses by up to a third. The content explores regional approaches to obesity management in Canada, emphasizing the challenges of rewiring brain circuitry and the role of medications in promoting healthier eating habits.
1 min read
Key Insights on Weight Loss Medications for 2026
Weight loss medications such as Wegovy and Zepbound are set to become more accessible and affordable, moving beyond high costs and weekly shots. New pill forms offer alternatives for those avoiding injections, with significant developments in GLP-1 treatments expected. Advances in pricing and access programs aim to broaden availability for patients.
6 min read
CMS Introduces Initiative to Enhance GLP-1 Availability in Medicaid and Medicare Part D
A novel CMS demonstration program seeks to broaden access to GLP-1 receptor agonists for individuals in Medicare Part D and Medicaid, aiming to address weight management and metabolic health. While it promises negotiations with manufacturers for reduced prices, experts remain skeptical about its widespread effectiveness. The initiative builds on prior drug pricing efforts and includes provisions for lifestyle support, with launch timelines set for 2026.
5 min read
Novo Nordisk Cuts Wegovy Price in China Ahead of Patent Expiration Amid Growing Copycats
Novo Nordisk has lowered the cost of its obesity treatment Wegovy in China in anticipation of patent expiration and rising generic competitors. The price reduction aims to ease patient treatment burdens, as reported in regional drug procurement data. This move also reflects changes on major online marketplaces, allowing nationwide ordering after doctor consultations.
2 min read
US Greenlights First GLP-1 Tablet for Weight Management
Novo Nordisk recently announced that the FDA has approved its GLP-1 anti-obesity drug, Wegovy, in pill form. This new oral version provides a convenient alternative to injections for weight loss in adults with obesity or weight-related health issues.
3 min read
Novo Nordisk Receives US Approval for Oral GLP-1 Weight-Loss Medication
The FDA has approved Novo Nordisk's Wegovy as an oral medication for weight loss. This provides an alternative to injections for adults with obesity or weight-related health issues. The company anticipates a US launch in January.
2 min read
Novo Nordisk Introduces Ozempic in India for Type 2 Diabetes, Prices Aligned to Wegovy
Novo Nordisk has launched Ozempic in India, an injectable semaglutide treatment intended for type 2 diabetes. The company is positioning the drug alongside its obesity medication, Wegovy. Pricing will be similar to Wegovy.
2 min read
Novo Nordisk India's Vikrant Shrotriya on Ensuring Ozempic Supply
Vikrant Shrotriya of Novo Nordisk India details Ozempic's launch in India, emphasizing stable supply and accessibility. He addresses patent expiry and competition, focusing on broader patient access and combating obesity.
6 min read
Generic Drug Manufacturers Eye Price Adjustments as Novo Reduces Wegovy Costs
Following Novo Nordisk's price reduction for its Wegovy injection, generic drug manufacturers are reassessing their pricing strategies. The move comes amid increasing competition in the weight-loss drug market, with potential impacts on affordability and market share.
3 min read
Medicare Achieves 71% Discount on Novo's Ozempic and Wegovy
The U.S. government has successfully negotiated a 71% discount on Novo Nordisk's popular drugs Ozempic and Wegovy for Medicare beneficiaries. These price reductions, resulting from recent legislation, will be implemented in 2027, potentially saving millions of dollars.
5 min read
Indian Drugmakers Adjust GLP-1 Pricing as Novo Nordisk Reduces Wegovy Cost in India
Indian drugmakers are modifying their pricing strategies for weight-loss injections after Novo Nordisk decreased the price of Wegovy. Generic companies are now reassessing their launch prices due to this shift. Competition is anticipated to lower prices in the GLP-1 market.
3 min read
Novo Nordisk Introduces $199 Introductory Deal for Wegovy and Ozempic Before Anticipated Price Reductions
Novo Nordisk is launching a special promotion, offering Wegovy and Ozempic at $199 per month for new self-pay patients. This introductory offer is available until March 31, 2026, and is valid for the initial two months of therapy at the lowest dosages.
3 min read
Novo Nordisk Reduces Wegovy Price Up to 37% in India Amid Mounjaro Competition
Novo Nordisk has reduced the price of Wegovy in India by as much as 37% to better compete with Eli Lilly's Mounjaro. This decision follows Mounjaro's rise to become the best-selling weight-loss medication in India by value.
2 min read
Weight Loss Drug Pricing Pressures & Peptide Therapy: Navigating the Evolving Health Landscape with Smart Tracking
The biopharma industry is heavily influenced by economics and politics. Tracking your health with a tool like Shotlee allows you to make informed decisions and monitor key metrics such as weight, blood sugar levels, cardiovascular markers, and overall wellness goals.