Why Find a Cheaper Alternative to Wegovy?
For many, the high cost is the biggest barrier to accessing effective weight management therapy. Without insurance coverage, a 28-day supply of Wegovy can cost well over $1,300. While manufacturer savings programs exist, they may not apply to all patients or cover the full cost. Additionally, supply shortages have occasionally made Wegovy difficult to obtain, forcing patients to consider other options. Seeking a cheaper alternative to Wegovy can be essential for both financial and practical reasons, ensuring consistent access to treatment.
Injectable Alternatives to Wegovy
Several other injectable medications are available that work similarly to Wegovy, though with variations in cost, efficacy, and dosing. These include both GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP agonists.
- Zepbound (tirzepatide): This is a once-weekly injectable approved for chronic weight management in adults. Zepbound is a dual-agonist, affecting both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, and has been shown to be more effective for weight loss in some studies. While its list price is around $1,060 per month, which is approximately 20% less than Wegovy's list price, its cost and coverage can vary.
- Ozempic (semaglutide): Ozempic contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy but is FDA-approved for Type 2 diabetes management. It is often prescribed off-label for weight loss. Ozempic uses lower doses of semaglutide and without insurance, its monthly cost is typically slightly less than Wegovy. Insurance coverage is more likely if you have a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis.
- Saxenda (liraglutide): As an older GLP-1 agonist, Saxenda is an FDA-approved daily injectable for weight management. It is generally considered less effective for weight loss than Wegovy and requires daily administration, which some may find less convenient than Wegovy's weekly shot.
Oral Prescription Medication Options
For those who prefer not to use injections, several oral medications are available, which often come at a lower cost than newer injectables.
- Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate ER): This is a combination pill that is taken once daily. Phentermine suppresses appetite, while topiramate can increase feelings of fullness. Qsymia is approved for long-term use and is significantly cheaper than Wegovy, with some prices around $150-$220 per month with discount cards.
- Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion): A twice-daily pill, Contrave combines an opioid antagonist with an antidepressant to reduce cravings and appetite. It is FDA-approved for chronic weight management and typically costs less than GLP-1 injectables.
- Phentermine (Adipex-P, Lomaira): This is a low-cost, generic appetite suppressant that is only approved for short-term use (up to 12 weeks). Its stimulant properties can lead to more side effects, but it is one of the most affordable prescription options.
- Orlistat (Xenical, Alli): Orlistat is a lipase inhibitor that works by blocking fat absorption. A prescription version (Xenical) and a lower-dose, over-the-counter version (Alli) are available. Alli is a very affordable option but is generally less effective than prescription-strength medications.
Other Considerations: Off-Label and Compounded Options
In some cases, other treatments might be explored under a doctor's guidance, though these often come with additional considerations.
- Metformin: An inexpensive and long-standing medication for Type 2 diabetes, metformin can cause modest weight loss as a side effect. While not FDA-approved for weight loss, some doctors may prescribe it off-label, especially for patients with insulin resistance or PCOS. It is significantly cheaper than Wegovy and widely covered by insurance.
- Compounded GLP-1s: Due to drug shortages, compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide became available through specific pharmacies. While often cheaper, the FDA has issued warnings about the safety and efficacy of these unapproved products. In early 2025, the FDA ended the allowance for compounding pharmacies to produce these copies, so availability is restricted.
Comparison of Wegovy Alternatives
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Administration | Typical Cost (without insurance)* | Key Difference from Wegovy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Weekly injection | ~$1,300+ / month | Benchmark |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Weekly injection | ~$1,060+ / month | Dual-agonist, may be more effective for weight loss |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Weekly injection | ~$950-$1,080 / month | Off-label for weight loss; lower dose for diabetes |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide | Daily injection | ~$1,300+ / month | Daily dose, may be less effective |
| Qsymia | Phentermine/Topiramate | Oral capsule | ~$150-$220 / month | Oral, combo drug, potentially lower cost |
| Contrave | Naltrexone/Bupropion | Oral tablet | ~$660 / month | Oral, non-stimulant, combo drug |
| Phentermine | Phentermine | Oral tablet | ~$10-$40 / month | Oral, short-term use only, stimulant |
| Orlistat (Xenical/Alli) | Orlistat | Oral capsule | Varies widely | Oral, blocks fat absorption, OTC version (Alli) available |
| Metformin | Metformin | Oral tablet | ~$10-$20 / month | Off-label for weight loss, often covered by insurance for diabetes |
*Note: Costs are estimates and can vary based on pharmacy, discounts, and location. Many manufacturers and pharmacies offer coupons or assistance programs.
Maximizing Affordability and Effectiveness
To find the most affordable and effective option, work closely with a healthcare provider. Discuss your medical history, insurance coverage, and weight loss goals. Here are a few strategies to explore:
- Investigate Insurance Coverage: Your plan may cover other weight loss medications, even if Wegovy isn't included. A provider may need to submit a prior authorization form, and having a related condition like diabetes can increase the likelihood of coverage for certain drugs.
- Inquire About Manufacturer Savings Cards: For commercially insured or cash-paying patients, many drug manufacturers offer savings cards to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, manufacturers of Zepbound and Wegovy respectively, both have programs.
- Use Prescription Discount Programs: Services like GoodRx and SingleCare can provide coupons for significant savings on brand-name or generic medications. For example, phentermine can sometimes be obtained for less than $20 with a coupon.
- Prioritize Lifestyle Interventions: Medications are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Making sustainable lifestyle changes can improve results regardless of the medication you choose and can be an inexpensive way to support your weight loss efforts.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Path for Your Needs
Wegovy's effectiveness and popularity have created high demand, but its high cost is a significant barrier for many. Fortunately, several cheaper alternatives to Wegovy are available, including other injectable GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP agonists like Zepbound and Saxenda, as well as oral medications like Contrave and Qsymia. For the most affordable options, older medications like generic phentermine and orlistat can be considered, along with off-label use of metformin. When exploring these options, it is critical to consult a healthcare provider to determine the safest and most suitable medication for your individual health profile and weight loss goals. Pairing any medication with a healthy diet and increased physical activity remains the gold standard for achieving and maintaining long-term weight loss.
