Zepbound vs. Mounjaro: Cost Differences Based on Indication
Tirzepatide is the active compound in both Zepbound and Mounjaro, but their FDA approvals differ, impacting cost and insurance coverage.
- Zepbound: Approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition. Insurance coverage for weight loss medications can be limited, potentially leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses unless manufacturer savings programs are applied.
- Mounjaro: Approved to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Insurance is more likely to cover diabetes treatments, though Mounjaro may still require prior authorization. Off-label use for weight loss is less likely to be covered.
How Much is Tirzepatide 5mg Without Insurance?
For individuals paying without insurance, the cost of tirzepatide is a primary concern. The price is influenced by the point of purchase and formulation.
Retail Pharmacy Pen Costs
A 28-day supply of prefilled pens typically lists for over $1,000. Zepbound's list price is $1,086.37, while Mounjaro's is $1,079.77. Without discounts, the annual cost can exceed $14,000. Prices can fluctuate by pharmacy.
LillyDirect Self-Pay Vials
Eli Lilly offers a discounted self-pay option for single-dose vials through its LillyDirect platform. As of mid-2025, four 5mg Zepbound vials cost $499 monthly. This provides a significantly more affordable cash price than retail pens, available to any patient regardless of insurance.
Third-Party Discount Options
Discount services like GoodRx and SingleCare can offer coupons for participating pharmacies. These might reduce the price of a 28-day supply of 5mg pens to around $950-$1,000, still higher than the LillyDirect vial price.
How Much is Tirzepatide 5mg With Commercial Insurance?
Commercial insurance can substantially lower tirzepatide costs, depending on the plan and eligibility for manufacturer savings.
With Insurance Coverage
If commercial insurance covers your prescription, whether Mounjaro for diabetes or Zepbound for weight management, a manufacturer's savings card may be available. Eligible patients could pay as little as $25 for a 1- or 3-month supply of pens.
Without Insurance Coverage
If commercial insurance does not cover tirzepatide, a manufacturer's savings card might still provide a discount. The Zepbound Savings Card, for example, could lower the monthly cost of pens to around $650. Eligibility conditions apply, and this option is not for those with government insurance like Medicare or Medicaid.
Cost Comparison: Tirzepatide (5mg) vs. Other Options
Comparing tirzepatide to other treatments provides context. Semaglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist available as Ozempic (diabetes) and Wegovy (weight loss).
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Average Retail Price (Pens) | Discounted Cash Price (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zepbound (5mg) | Tirzepatide | $1,280–$1,300+ | $499 via LillyDirect vials |
| Mounjaro (5mg) | Tirzepatide | $1,000–$1,200+ | Up to $463 off for commercially insured but not covered |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | $1,350+ | Savings card for commercially insured |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | $1,000+ | Savings card for commercially insured |
| Compounded Tirzepatide | Tirzepatide | Not FDA-approved, price varies | Starts around $425 (estimate) |
Navigating Affordability and Insurance Coverage
Understanding the cost of tirzepatide involves navigating insurance, manufacturer programs, and pharmacy choices. Consider these steps:
- Verify Insurance: Contact your insurer to confirm tirzepatide coverage, including for which condition it's covered and any prior authorization needs or copays.
- Explore Manufacturer Savings: Check the Mounjaro and Zepbound websites for eligibility criteria for their savings card programs. Significant savings may be available for commercially insured patients, even without plan coverage.
- Consider LillyDirect: For those paying cash, LillyDirect offers a transparent, fixed price for Zepbound vials, often the most cost-effective option compared to retail.
- Utilize Discount Cards: Websites like GoodRx and SingleCare provide coupons for pharmacies. Compare these discounts with the LillyDirect cash price.
- Consult Your Doctor: Discuss brand options and formulations with your healthcare provider to find the best and most affordable treatment plan. Ask about samples.
- Be Cautious of Compounded Versions: Compounded tirzepatide from specialty pharmacies may seem cheaper, but it is not FDA-reviewed for safety, effectiveness, or purity. Approach these unapproved products with extreme caution.
Conclusion
The cost of a 5mg dose of tirzepatide varies considerably, from around $25 monthly for some commercially insured patients to over $1,000 at retail without discounts. The LillyDirect program offers a notable savings channel for self-pay patients, with Zepbound vials priced at $499 monthly. Effectively managing tirzepatide costs requires a thorough understanding of insurance benefits, manufacturer support, and available pharmacy options to make a financially responsible choice.
This article provides general information. For precise, current pricing, always consult the manufacturer and your insurance provider. For eligibility and options, visit the official LillyDirect website: https://lillydirect.lilly.com/pharmacy/.
