Is there a generic for Ozempic?
As of late 2025, there is no FDA-approved generic version of Ozempic (semaglutide) available in the United States. Ozempic is still protected by patents held by its manufacturer, Novo Nordisk. While some patents are set to expire sooner in other countries, key U.S. patents are not expected to expire until at least 2032, protecting the manufacturer from direct generic competition for several more years. This patent protection is the primary reason for the high list price of the brand-name drug.
The difference between generic and compounded drugs
It is crucial to distinguish between a true generic drug and a compounded medication. A generic drug is an exact copy of a brand-name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use. It undergoes a rigorous FDA approval process to prove bioequivalence to the brand-name product.
In contrast, compounded semaglutide is made by a compounding pharmacy, which combines, mixes, or alters ingredients to create a medication tailored to a patient's specific needs. The FDA does not review compounded products for safety, effectiveness, or quality, and has issued warnings about unapproved GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. Compounded semaglutide became available during drug shortages of the brand-name versions but should be used with caution and only under a doctor's supervision.
Cost of brand-name Ozempic and compounded semaglutide
The price difference between brand-name Ozempic and compounded semaglutide is substantial, especially for those paying out-of-pocket. The cost is influenced by factors such as location, pharmacy, insurance coverage, and dosage.
Brand-name Ozempic pricing
Without insurance, the average retail price for a monthly supply of Ozempic can range from $900 to $1,200 or more, adding up to over $11,000 annually. While this is the sticker price, many people do not pay this full amount due to insurance coverage or manufacturer assistance programs.
Compounded semaglutide pricing
The price for compounded semaglutide is significantly lower, typically ranging from $129 to $497 per month without insurance, depending on the provider and dosage. Online providers often advertise competitive rates, but these may not include consultation fees or other charges.
Ways to save on Ozempic and semaglutide
Given the high cost, patients have several options to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses for semaglutide-based medications.
- Manufacturer Savings Card: Novo Nordisk offers a savings card for commercially insured patients, potentially lowering the monthly cost of Ozempic to as little as $25 for a 1- or 3-month supply. Eligibility requires commercial insurance and an FDA-approved indication for the drug, such as Type 2 diabetes.
- Patient Assistance Program (PAP): For uninsured or Medicare patients who meet income and residency requirements, the Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program can provide Ozempic for free.
- Prescription Discount Cards: Services like SingleCare and GoodRx provide coupons that can reduce the price of brand-name Ozempic at participating pharmacies. While these can offer savings, they cannot be used in conjunction with insurance.
- Health Insurance Coverage: If your insurance plan covers Ozempic for an FDA-approved use (like Type 2 diabetes), your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your copay and deductible. Coverage often excludes weight loss use.
- Alternative Medications: Your doctor may be able to prescribe other, more affordable GLP-1 agonists or alternative medications. For example, some generic versions of older GLP-1s, like liraglutide (generic Victoza), are available and can be significantly cheaper.
Comparing costs: Ozempic vs. Compounded Semaglutide vs. Other GLP-1s
To help visualize the costs, the following table compares different semaglutide and GLP-1 options. The prices listed are approximate monthly cash prices without insurance, and costs will vary by location, pharmacy, and available discounts.
| Medication | Average Monthly Cash Price | FDA-Approved? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic (semaglutide) | ~$1,000–$1,200 | Yes | Brand-name injection for Type 2 diabetes. Discounts via manufacturer programs may apply. |
| Compounded semaglutide | ~$200–$400 | No | Created by specialty pharmacies. Not FDA-vetted for safety or efficacy. |
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | ~$1,300–$1,600 | Yes | Higher-dose brand-name injection for weight management. Savings programs available. |
| Rybelsus (semaglutide) | ~$1,100–$1,240 | Yes | Brand-name oral tablet for Type 2 diabetes. Savings programs available. |
| Victoza (liraglutide) | ~$123 (generic) | Yes | Older GLP-1 injection for Type 2 diabetes. Generic version is available and much cheaper. |
| Zepbound (tirzepatide) | ~$1,086 | Yes | Brand-name injection for weight management. Manufacturer savings programs available. |
Conclusion
While there is no FDA-approved generic Ozempic, and therefore no official generic price, there are several avenues to explore for more affordable semaglutide treatment. The brand-name versions, Ozempic and Wegovy, remain expensive without insurance due to patent protection, with U.S. exclusivity for Ozempic stretching to 2032 and beyond.
For those seeking lower costs, compounded semaglutide offers a significantly cheaper alternative, but it is not FDA-approved and carries associated risks and a lack of insurance coverage. Safe and effective ways to reduce expenses for brand-name drugs include manufacturer savings cards, patient assistance programs, and prescription discount coupons. Patients should also discuss other FDA-approved GLP-1 medications and older alternatives with their healthcare providers to find a treatment plan that is both medically appropriate and financially viable. For uninsured or underinsured patients, the Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program can make Ozempic free for those who qualify, and other foundations may also offer copay relief.
