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Cost Guide

GLP-1 Medication Costs: Insurance Guide

GLP-1 medication costs vary from $149/month for orforglipron to over $1,350/month for Wegovy. Complete guide to insurance coverage, savings programs, LillyDirect, and every way to reduce costs.

01

The Real Cost Picture in 2026

MedicationMonthly list priceWith insurance (typical copay)Self-pay options
Wegovy (sema 2.4 mg)~$1,350$25-150Novo Nordisk savings card: as low as $0 for eligible patients
Ozempic (sema 1.0 mg, T2D)~$935$25-100Savings card available
Zepbound (tirz 15 mg)~$1,060$25-150LillyDirect self-pay: ~$549/month
Mounjaro (tirz, T2D)~$1,060$25-100Savings card available
Orforglipron (expected 2026)—TBDLillyDirect: $149-399/month
CagriSema (expected 2027)TBDTBDExpected premium to Wegovy
02

Semaglutide Coverage Summary

IndicationBrandCoverage status
Type 2 diabetesOzempicWidely covered
Weight managementWegovyIncreasingly covered, but inconsistent
Cardiovascular risk reductionWegovyImproving (SELECT trial data)
03

Tirzepatide Coverage Summary

IndicationBrandCoverage status
Type 2 diabetesMounjaroWidely covered
Weight managementZepboundMixed (expanding)
Self-payZepbound via LillyDirectAvailable now (~$549/month)
04

Upcoming Medications

MedicationExpected availabilityExpected self-pay
Orforglipron2026$149-399/month
CagriSema2027TBD (expected premium)
Retatrutide~2027TBD
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest GLP-1 medication?

Currently, Zepbound via LillyDirect self-pay (~$549/month) is the most affordable branded option without insurance. When orforglipron launches (expected 2026), it will start at $149/month through LillyDirect.

Does Medicare cover GLP-1 medications?

Medicare Part D coverage for GLP-1 medications has been expanding, particularly for diabetes-indicated versions (Ozempic, Mounjaro). Coverage for weight management indications varies. The Inflation Reduction Act's impact on Medicare drug pricing may further affect costs.

Can I use a savings card with insurance?

Yes — manufacturer savings cards apply on top of your insurance, reducing your copay. However, savings cards typically cannot be used with government insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare).

How much will CagriSema cost?

Pricing hasn't been announced, but market analysts expect CagriSema to be priced at a premium to Wegovy (~$1,350/month list) given its combination mechanism. Actual patient costs will depend on insurance coverage and Novo Nordisk's pricing strategy.

Is it worth paying out of pocket for a GLP-1?

This depends on your individual health situation, risk factors, and financial circumstances. For patients at high metabolic risk, GLP-1 therapy can prevent expensive downstream health complications. Discuss the cost-benefit analysis with your healthcare provider.

References
  1. 01Novo Nordisk. NovoCare Patient Assistance Programs. 2026.
  2. 02Eli Lilly. LillyDirect Pricing and Availability. 2025-2026.
  3. 03Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Medicare Part D Coverage Updates. 2025.
  4. 04GoodRx Research. "GLP-1 Medication Pricing Trends." 2025.
  5. 05American Diabetes Association. "Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes." 2025.
  6. 06Eli Lilly. "Orforglipron Pricing Announcement." 2025.

This profile is being expanded — additional sections from the source are still being added.

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