Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Saxenda (Liraglutide for Weight Loss) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Saxenda 6mg/mL Pen (5-pack, 30-day supply) | $1,000 – $1,300 | $100 – $300 |
| Saxenda Starter Kit (dose titration) | $500 – $700 | $50 – $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: Tier 3 brand — limited coverage; many plans exclude; prior authorization and BMI criteria required
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
Saxenda costs $1,000 to $1,300 per month without insurance for a full-dose supply. This makes it one of the more expensive weight loss medications.
Both contain GLP-1 receptor agonists. Saxenda (liraglutide) is FDA-approved for weight loss and given daily. Ozempic (semaglutide) is approved for diabetes and given weekly, though often used off-label for weight loss.
Coverage is limited — many insurance plans exclude weight loss medications. When covered, prior authorization with documented BMI over 30 (or 27 with comorbidities) is typically required.