GLP-1 Medication Savings Calculator
Compare Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro & Zepbound Costs
GLP-1 medications can cost $900–$1,600 per month at list price — but with the right savings strategies, many patients pay $25–$100/month. Use this guide to find the best price for your medication.
Monthly Cost Comparison
List prices vs. real-world costs with savings programs. Prices as of early 2025 — verify with your pharmacy.
5 Proven Savings Strategies
Use these in order — the best savings are usually at the top of the list.
Manufacturer Savings Cards
Novo Nordisk (Ozempic/Wegovy) and Eli Lilly (Mounjaro/Zepbound) both offer savings cards that can reduce your out-of-pocket cost to as little as $25/month. These are only available to patients with commercial (not government) insurance. Apply online at NovoCare.com or LillyInsulinValue.com.
GoodRx and Pharmacy Coupons
GoodRx, RxSaver, and NeedyMeds can cut costs for patients who do not qualify for manufacturer cards. While savings on GLP-1 brand drugs are modest (often 10–20% off list), they are free to use. Always compare GoodRx pricing across pharmacy chains — Costco and Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs often have the lowest base prices.
Prior Authorization (PA) with Insurance
If your insurance plan covers GLP-1 medications, a PA from your doctor is usually required. Your prescriber must document your BMI, comorbidities (T2D, hypertension, sleep apnea), and prior weight-loss attempts. For Wegovy and Zepbound, a BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with a comorbidity) is typically required. PA approvals can reduce cost from $1,000+/month to a standard drug copay.
Clinical Trials (Free Medication)
Enrolled participants in GLP-1 or obesity drug clinical trials often receive medication at no cost. Search ClinicalTrials.gov for open semaglutide, tirzepatide, or obesity trials near you. This can be an excellent option if you are not yet eligible for approved medications or cannot afford them.
Employer Wellness Programs
A growing number of large employers (Amazon, Walmart, JPMorgan) now cover GLP-1 medications for obesity as part of their group health plan. Check your HR benefits portal or speak to your benefits coordinator. Some employers require enrollment in a structured weight-loss program alongside medication to qualify.
Annual Cost Comparison
Seeing annual numbers makes the savings strategies above even more compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will insurance cover Ozempic for weight loss?
Generally, no. Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, not obesity. Insurance plans that cover weight-loss medications typically require Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) — the version specifically FDA-approved for chronic weight management. If you have T2D, your insurer is far more likely to cover Ozempic.
Is Zepbound covered by insurance?
Zepbound coverage varies widely by plan. As of 2025, many commercial plans are beginning to add Zepbound with prior authorization. Lilly's savings card can reduce your copay to $25/month for eligible commercially insured patients. Medicare Part D does NOT cover weight-loss drugs (including Zepbound) by law.
Is compounded semaglutide legal and safe in 2025?
Compounded semaglutide existed in a legal gray zone while brand versions were on the FDA shortage list. In 2025, the FDA removed semaglutide from the drug shortage list, which significantly restricts compounding pharmacies. Always verify your pharmacy's accreditation (503A or 503B) and discuss legality with your prescriber before ordering.