Costco's New Partnership Delivers Major Savings
In early October 2025, pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk and wholesale giant Costco announced a new collaboration aimed at making popular GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, more accessible to cash-paying members. For those paying out-of-pocket, the price for a four-week supply of Ozempic has been set at $499. This represents a massive reduction from the previous uninsured retail price, which could exceed $1,000 per month. The new pricing brings Costco in line with other retailers offering the same manufacturer's discount.
To access this lower price, members must have a valid prescription from their doctor and be enrolled in the Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP). This initiative directly addresses the challenge many patients face due to high drug costs and inadequate insurance coverage, particularly for off-label uses like weight management.
Eligibility and Prescription Requirements
Obtaining Ozempic at the discounted Costco price is straightforward but requires meeting specific criteria. The process ensures that patients receive the authentic, FDA-approved medication from a trusted source.
To qualify for the $499 monthly price, you must:
- Be a current Costco member.
- Have a valid prescription for Ozempic from a licensed healthcare provider.
- Enroll in the Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP).
- Pay out-of-pocket, meaning the cost is not processed through your insurance provider.
It is important to note that this discount is for self-pay customers only. It is not compatible with using your commercial health insurance to cover a portion of the cost. For members with commercial insurance that does cover Ozempic, other savings options, such as the manufacturer's savings card, may apply, potentially bringing the cost down even further. Additionally, Executive members and Costco Citibank Visa cardholders may be eligible for further rewards on their purchases.
Comparing Costs: Costco vs. Other Options
The retail price of Ozempic can vary significantly depending on where and how you purchase it. The following table compares the approximate monthly cost for self-paying patients across different avenues, highlighting the value of the new Costco offer.
| Purchase Method | Approximate Monthly Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Costco (Self-Pay) | $499 | For Costco members enrolled in the CMPP with a valid prescription. |
| Novo Nordisk (Manufacturer) | $499 | The same self-pay price offered through the manufacturer's direct-to-consumer website, NovoCare Pharmacy. |
| Major Retail Pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walmart) | $499 | Most large pharmacy chains offer the same manufacturer-driven self-pay discount. |
| Previous High Retail Price (Uninsured) | >$1,000 | The typical out-of-pocket cost for uninsured individuals before the expanded discount offers became widely available. |
| Commercial Insurance (with Ozempic Savings Card) | As low as $25 | For commercially insured patients whose plans cover Ozempic, subject to eligibility and maximum savings limits. |
This comparison demonstrates that while the $499 self-pay price is now standard across several major retailers, it is a considerable improvement over previous uninsured costs and highlights the different payment pathways for the medication. For those with insurance that covers Ozempic, using the manufacturer's savings card offers the most substantial savings.
Ozempic and Insurance Coverage
Ozempic's cost can be complicated by its different uses and insurance plan coverage. The medication is FDA-approved for treating Type 2 diabetes and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events in certain adults with diabetes. However, it is also widely used off-label for weight management. Most insurance plans base their coverage decisions on the FDA-approved indication.
- For Type 2 Diabetes: If Ozempic is prescribed for its approved use, commercial insurance plans are more likely to offer coverage. Eligible patients can then use the Novo Nordisk savings card to potentially pay as little as $25 for a monthly supply.
- For Weight Management (Off-Label Use): Many health insurance plans do not cover the cost of Ozempic when used solely for weight loss. In these scenarios, the Costco self-pay option becomes a critical way to access the medication at a predictable, more manageable price.
Navigating insurance coverage requires careful discussion with both your prescribing physician and your insurance provider. You can also visit Novo Nordisk's dedicated savings page for additional information on patient assistance programs.
Conclusion
In summary, the question of how much is one month of Ozempic at Costco has a clear answer for self-paying members: $499. This price, a result of a recent partnership with Novo Nordisk, offers significant savings compared to previous out-of-pocket costs and standardizes the self-pay price across major retailers. The availability of Ozempic at Costco provides a predictable and more affordable option for individuals who lack insurance coverage for the medication, particularly those using it for off-label weight management. For those with commercial insurance, alternative savings programs through the manufacturer may offer even greater discounts.
How to Get Ozempic at Costco
- Obtain a Prescription: Consult with your doctor to determine if Ozempic is the right medication for you. They will provide the necessary prescription.
- Join the CMPP: Enroll in the Costco Member Prescription Program, which is free for Costco members.
- Fill at the Pharmacy: Present your valid prescription and CMPP details to a Costco pharmacist.
- Pay Self-Pay Price: Inform the pharmacist you will be paying the self-pay price of $499.
What To Consider
When deciding on your Ozempic purchase, it is important to consider your insurance status, the reason for your prescription, and any other financial assistance you may be eligible for. While the Costco price is a fantastic option for some, it is not always the best one, especially for those with qualifying insurance coverage.
