Wegovy (semaglutide) is a powerful, once-weekly injectable medication approved for chronic weight management and reducing cardiovascular risk in eligible adults. While its efficacy has made it highly sought-after, its high price tag can present a significant barrier for many. The final cost to a patient is determined by several factors, including insurance coverage, patient assistance programs, and chosen pharmacy. By exploring all available avenues for financial assistance, patients can make this medication more affordable.
Understanding the List Price and Out-of-Pocket Costs
The High Retail Price of Wegovy
Without insurance or any discounts, the manufacturer's list price for a 28-day supply (four pens) of Wegovy is approximately $1,349. However, this is rarely the final price paid by consumers. The list price is the amount Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, charges wholesalers, and is subject to pharmacy markups. Patients paying entirely out-of-pocket at a retail pharmacy may face costs ranging from $1,300 to $2,000 per month, depending on location and pharmacy.
How the NovoCare Pharmacy Reduces the Cash Price
In March 2025, Wegovy's manufacturer announced a direct-to-patient program, NovoCare Pharmacy, which significantly lowered the cost for uninsured or cash-paying patients. Through this program, a 28-day supply of Wegovy for any dosage strength is available for a reduced cash price of $499. This price is only available through NovoCare's pharmacy services and is not processed through insurance. While this program offers substantial savings, it is not available for those with government-funded insurance plans like Medicare or Medicaid.
Your Cost with Commercial Insurance
How the Wegovy Savings Card Works
For eligible patients with commercial insurance, the Wegovy Savings Card can dramatically reduce out-of-pocket costs. This program can lower the price to as little as $0 for up to 13 fills for those with insurance covering the medication. The maximum savings limit is $225 for a 28-day supply. For those with commercial insurance that does not cover Wegovy, the savings card can provide a discount on the cash price, effectively bringing it down towards the NovoCare price.
The Impact of Insurance Formularies and Tiers
Insurance coverage for weight-loss medications is notoriously inconsistent. Many insurance providers do not consider these drugs medically necessary, although the recent FDA approval for cardiovascular risk reduction has expanded coverage for some. Even if covered, the cost depends on your plan's formulary (covered drug list) and the drug's tier. Wegovy is a brand-name medication, so it is often placed in a higher-cost tier, meaning a higher copay or coinsurance amount for the patient. Many insurance plans also require prior authorization, a process where your doctor must justify the need for the medication before it is covered.
Key Factors that Influence What You Pay
- Insurance Coverage: The most significant factor. Coverage varies widely, and many plans, especially government ones like Medicare (for weight loss), do not cover Wegovy.
- Manufacturer Programs: NovoCare Pharmacy and the Wegovy Savings Card offer substantial discounts that can make the medication affordable for both insured and uninsured patients who meet eligibility requirements.
- Pharmacy Choice: Retail prices can vary between different pharmacies, with some offering better prices or having different contracts with discount card providers.
- Dosage: Higher doses do not necessarily mean a higher monthly cost, as manufacturer programs often apply universally to all dosage strengths for a 28-day supply.
- Patient Assistance Programs: Programs from non-profit foundations can offer further financial assistance to qualifying patients.
Cost Comparison: Wegovy vs. Alternatives
| Medication (28-day supply) | List Price (without insurance) | Discount/Cash Price (for eligible patients) | Key Features/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | ~$1,349 | $499 (NovoCare), as low as $0 (Commercial Insurance) | Once-weekly injectable for weight loss; also approved for cardiovascular risk reduction. |
| Zepbound (tirzepatide) | ~$1,086 | $349-$499 (LillyDirect) | Once-weekly injectable; combines GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists for weight loss. |
| Saxenda (liraglutide) | ~$1,349 | Varies | Daily injectable for weight loss; older GLP-1 agonist. |
| Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) | ~$400-$500 | ~$99 with CurAccess program | Oral medication; combines two drugs to reduce appetite. |
| Phentermine | ~$27-$100 | Varies | Oral appetite suppressant for short-term use. |
How to Reduce Your Monthly Wegovy Costs
- Explore Manufacturer Programs: Check your eligibility for the NovoCare Pharmacy reduced cash price or the Wegovy Savings Card on the Novo Nordisk website.
- Compare Pharmacy Prices: Use online tools or call local pharmacies to compare prices. Some may offer lower retail prices or accept specific prescription discount cards.
- Use Prescription Discount Cards: Services like GoodRx or Optum Perks offer coupons for significant discounts that can be used if you are paying cash.
- Check Your Insurance: Contact your insurance provider directly to confirm coverage for Wegovy, check for prior authorization requirements, and understand your copay. You can also use the Check Your Cost and Coverage tool on the official Wegovy website for help.
- Consider Telehealth Services: Many telehealth platforms offer lower costs for provider consultations and can help navigate the complexities of insurance coverage and cost-saving programs.
- Review Alternatives: Discuss other weight-loss medications or treatments with your doctor. Sometimes, a different drug may be more affordable or covered by your insurance.
Conclusion
In summary, while the sticker price for a 30-day supply of Wegovy is high, several pathways can lead to more affordable access. Uninsured patients can leverage the $499 NovoCare Pharmacy price, while commercially insured patients may qualify for the Wegovy Savings Card, potentially reducing their cost to as little as $0. However, the exact amount paid depends on many variables, including your specific insurance plan and eligibility for financial assistance programs. Thoroughly researching your options and consulting with your healthcare provider are critical steps to managing the cost of your Wegovy prescription and ensuring you can stay on your weight management journey. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the Wegovy Savings Card and other financial resources, visit the official NovoCare website.
