Zepbound's Role in Weight Management and the Cost Factor
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is an injectable prescription medication approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI of 30+) or who are overweight (BMI of 27+) with a weight-related medical condition [1.6.1]. It works by activating two hormone receptors (GLP-1 and GIP) to reduce appetite and food intake [1.6.1]. While clinical trials show significant weight loss, the list price of over $1,000 per month presents a major financial hurdle for many [1.4.1, 1.4.8]. This high cost makes savings programs and coupons a critical component of access.
The Answer: Yes, Zepbound Savings Are Confirmed for 2025
Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Zepbound, has confirmed the continuation of its savings programs into 2025. According to the official terms and conditions, the current Zepbound Savings Card is set to expire on December 31, 2025 [1.2.1]. This ensures that eligible patients can access savings throughout the year. However, the amount of savings and eligibility criteria differ significantly based on a patient's insurance status.
Savings for Patients with Commercial Insurance Coverage
For individuals with a commercial drug insurance plan that covers Zepbound, the savings program can be substantial. These patients may be able to pay as little as $25 for a 1-month or 3-month prescription [1.2.3, 1.4.5]. The program has a maximum monthly savings of $150 and an annual cap of $1,800 per calendar year [1.2.3]. This option is designed to reduce the copay burden for those whose insurance already includes Zepbound on their formulary.
Savings for Patients Without Commercial Insurance Coverage
Patients who have commercial drug insurance but their plan does not cover Zepbound can still benefit. For this group, the savings card can reduce the cost of a one-month prescription by up to $569 [1.2.1]. This effectively lowers the out-of-pocket cost to around $550 for a 1-month supply, based on the list price [1.2.3]. This program has a maximum annual savings of up to $7,397 [1.2.1].
How to Qualify for the Zepbound Savings Card
Eligibility for the Zepbound Savings Card program is specific. To qualify, an individual must [1.6.1, 1.6.2, 1.6.3]:
- Be a resident of the United States or Puerto Rico.
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Have a valid prescription for Zepbound for an FDA-approved use.
- Have commercial drug insurance.
Critically, individuals enrolled in any government-funded healthcare program are not eligible. This includes Medicaid, Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medigap, VA, DoD, or TRICARE [1.6.4, 1.6.5].
Cost and Savings Comparison: Zepbound vs. Wegovy
Understanding the market landscape is key for patients. Zepbound's main competitor is Wegovy (semaglutide). Here is a comparison of their costs and savings programs as of late 2025.
| Feature | Zepbound (Tirzepatide) | Wegovy (Semaglutide) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
| List Price (Monthly) | $1,059.87 [1.5.2] | $1,349.02 [1.5.2] |
| Savings with Insurance | As low as $25/month [1.5.2] | May have no out-of-pocket cost [1.5.2] |
| Savings without Insurance | Pay as low as $550/month with card [1.5.2] | Save up to $225/month with card [1.5.2] |
| Self-Pay Program Price | Vials start at $349-$499/month via LillyDirect [1.4.6, 1.5.3] | $499/month for uninsured patients [1.5.3, 1.5.7] |
Alternative Paths to Affordability
Beyond the primary savings card, other options exist:
- LillyDirect Self-Pay Program: Eli Lilly launched a program allowing patients to purchase Zepbound single-dose vials directly, bypassing insurance channels. Prices are tiered by dosage, with the 2.5mg starting dose at $349 and maintenance doses like 5mg, 7.5mg, and 10mg priced at $499 per month [1.3.5, 1.4.5, 1.4.6]. This is a key option for the uninsured or those with high deductibles.
- Lilly Cares Foundation: This is a separate patient assistance program (PAP) for qualifying low-income individuals who lack insurance. If approved, patients may receive their Lilly medications, including Zepbound, at no cost for up to 12 months [1.3.7, 1.4.1]. This requires a detailed application process with proof of income [1.3.8].
- Insurance Navigation: Even if initially denied, patients can work with their doctor to submit a prior authorization request to their insurance company. This involves documenting the medical necessity for Zepbound, which may require showing that other, less expensive options were tried first (step therapy) [1.4.5, 1.6.2].
Conclusion: Planning for Zepbound Costs in 2025
To answer the question, yes, Zepbound will have a coupon and several savings programs available throughout 2025 [1.2.1]. For patients with commercial insurance, the savings card can dramatically lower costs, potentially to as little as $25 a month [1.2.3]. For those without coverage or who are uninsured, Eli Lilly has created direct-to-patient pathways like the LillyDirect self-pay program for vials, offering a more predictable monthly cost around $499 for maintenance doses [1.3.2, 1.4.5]. The most important step for any patient is to visit the official Zepbound website, review the terms, and determine which of the available programs best fits their financial and insurance situation.
Disclaimer: This article provides a summary of publicly available information regarding medication costs and savings programs as of September 2025. It is not medical or financial advice. Eligibility, terms, and availability of programs are determined by the manufacturer and can change. Always consult the official program websites and a healthcare provider.
