Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does GLP-1 Medications Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Ozempic (semaglutide — diabetes) | $935 – $935 | $25 – $150 |
| Wegovy (semaglutide — weight loss) | $1,350 – $1,350 | $25 – $500 |
| Mounjaro (tirzepatide — diabetes) | $1,060 – $1,060 | $25 – $150 |
| Zepbound (tirzepatide — weight loss) | $1,060 – $1,060 | $25 – $500 |
| Compounded Semaglutide | $199 – $399 | $199 – $399 |
| Compounded Tirzepatide | $199 – $499 | $199 – $499 |
| Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) | $935 – $935 | $25 – $150 |
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Varies by medication and indication
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Compounded versions from telehealth ($199-$499/mo). Among brand-name, Ozempic ($935/mo) is least expensive. With insurance, copays can be $25/month.
From licensed 503B facilities, yes. They use the same active ingredient but are not individually FDA-approved products.
Tirzepatide (Zepbound/Mounjaro) shows most weight loss (20-25%). Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) shows 15-17%.