The cost of Wegovy: What you’ll pay with and without insurance

7 min Read

Reviewed by:

Dr Ameen Masoodi, MD

Family Medicine Physician, MPH, DABOM

Learn about the cost of Wegovy for weight loss, including monthly expenses, insurance coverage, and potential savings.

What you’ll learn:   

  • Wegovy® can be highly effective for weight loss but can be expensive, with a typical monthly cost without insurance exceeding $1,300.    
  • The high cost of Wegovy® comes from an exclusive patent, high market demand, and a complex manufacturing process.   
  • Several factors may influence what you’ll actually pay for Wegovy®, including insurance coverage and pharmacy choice.       

If you’re thinking about trying a weight loss medication, you’ve probably heard about Ozempic®. You might know that it was designed to treat diabetes but is now popular for its off-label use for weight loss. Ozempic® also has a sister medication called Wegovy®. It has the same active ingredient as Ozempic® but is FDA-approved for weight loss. Both drugs contain semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a natural hormone in the body to lower appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar, helping people lose weight.  

Wegovy® can be a great choice for people who need to lose weight, but it does come with a steep price tag if your insurance doesn’t cover it. A month’s supply of Wegovy® without insurance typically costs over $1,300 per month. Why is it so expensive? We’ll go through what drives the cost, dig into what insurance might cover, and discuss ways to save. And if you need a more affordable alternative, we’ll talk about some other options.

How much does Wegovy® cost per month?

The list price for a 28-day supply of Wegovy® is about  $1,349. But the actual amount you’ll pay can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, like:

  • Insurance coverage: If your plan covers Wegovy® and you qualify for the company’s savings programs, you might pay nothing, though this is rare.
  • Pharmacy choice: Prices aren’t the same everywhere. Some pharmacies charge more, so it’s worth shopping around to find a better deal.

What drives the cost of Wegovy®?

The high cost of Wegovy® comes from a combination of factors from market demand to the complexities of pharmaceutical development. Understanding these drivers can help explain why this medication has such a steep price tag and why alternatives may not yet be widely available. Here’s a breakdown of the key contributors to Wegovy®’s cost:

  • No generic options: Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy®, has an exclusive patent on semaglutide, which prevents generic alternatives and limits competition. Novo Nordisk’s patent on semaglutide is set to expire in 2032 in the U.S.
  • Research and development costs: Novo Nordisk spent over $10 billion developing GLP-1 medications and continues to invest billions more in expanding manufacturing capabilities. These costs are often reflected in the drug’s price.
  • Market demand: High demand fueled by the popularity of Ozempic® has driven prices up for Wegovy®, and supply shortages have added pressure to the market.
  • Insurance variability: Coverage for weight-loss medications is inconsistent, with many insurers considering weight loss a lifestyle issue rather than a medical necessity.

Together, these factors contribute to Wegovy®’s current price structure, shaping the cost that people see at the pharmacy.

Will Wegovy® cost less in the future?

The cost of Wegovy® could decrease in the future as new medications enter the market and offer alternative options. Currently, Wegovy® holds a significant position in the weight management field, but pharmaceutical innovation is ongoing, and other companies are scrambling to develop and sell alternatives. 

Competition with Eli Lilly, the maker of tirzepatide medications Zebound® and Mounjaro®, has already caused Novo Nordisk to lower Wegovy® prices. The two medications treat similar conditions, with Zepbound® being approved for weight loss and Mounjaro® for diabetes management, with off-label weight loss use. Eli Lilly also decided to begin selling cheaper, single-dose vials of Zepbound last year, which could also drive down the cost of Wegovy®

In addition, generic versions of other GLP-1 medications may eventually become available to provide a more affordable alternative. While semaglutide and tirzepatide will not be available in generic form for some time, liraglutide (Victoza®), another GLP-1, was approved as a generic in August 2024. Over time, increased accessibility and affordability could transform the market for weight loss medications. 

Are there manufacturer discounts for Wegovy®?

Are there ways to make Wegovy® more budget-friendly? Novo Nordisk offers a savings card that can make Wegovy® more affordable for eligible people. If you have commercial insurance that covers Wegovy®, your out-of-pocket costs will depend on your specific plan. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to understand what costs you might expect. 

High-quality meds. Powerful psychology-based weight loss.

  • Starting at $149/month
  • Meds to your door in 7 days
  • 100% online access to coaches and doctors
  • Backed by Noom's award winning behavior change program

See if you qualify

Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.

For those who are uninsured or whose insurance doesn’t cover Wegovy®, a savings card may help reduce your costs to $650 for a 28-day supply.  

Is Wegovy® covered by my insurance?

Navigating insurance coverage for Wegovy® can feel confusing, but understanding your options is key. Whether you’re considering this GLP-1 medication for weight loss or other health reasons, coverage can vary widely based on your insurance type and health needs. While many plans are restrictive when it comes to weight loss medications, some may cover Wegovy® if prescribed for conditions beyond weight management, like heart health. Here’s a breakdown of how different insurance types handle Wegovy®:

  • Private Insurance: Coverage varies significantly. While most plans don’t cover Wegovy® for weight loss alone, it’s still worth checking with your provider, as exceptions can exist.
  • Employer-sponsored insurance: Your employer’s specific plan determines coverage. If it’s not included, consider speaking with your HR or benefits team to explore possible coverage options.
  • Medicare: Medicare coverage for Wegovy® is limited. Typically, Medicare Part D doesn’t cover medications prescribed solely for weight loss. However, if your doctor prescribes Wegovy® for a condition like heart health, coverage may be possible in some cases. Be sure to review your specific plan details.
  • Medicaid: Coverage depends on your state. Some Medicaid programs will cover Wegovy®, especially if prescribed for health conditions beyond weight loss, like cardiovascular support.

How long will I be on Wegovy®?

Wegovy® is a long-term commitment and not a temporary remedy. In order to achieve and sustain weight loss, most people stay on this medication for at least six months. Beginning the medication is a decision that needs careful consideration because of its prolonged use, which requires a commitment to both a treatment plan and any related expenses. 

Alternatives to Wegovy® for weight loss

Wegovy® isn’t the only option for effective weight loss support. Whether you’re looking for a more affordable solution or exploring medications better suited to your health needs, there are alternatives that can help you reach your goals without compromising your budget. Finding the right fit can make a significant difference in your weight management journey. Here’s a look at some alternatives that could be a better match for both your health goals and your wallet:

  • Flexible medication options: if you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can discuss a variety of other medications for weight management and prescribe them if needed, though insurance coverage will vary. Ozempic® and Rybelsus® (semaglutide), Mounjaro® and Zepbound® (tirzepatide), Contrave, metformin, and Bupropion/Naltrexone can all be prescribed if needed.
  • Noom’s compounded semaglutide*: Noom’s GLP-1Rx program offers compounded semaglutide, which contains the same active ingredient as  Wegovy® and Ozempic® at a potentially more accessible cost. The program, which includes medication, starts at $149 per month. If you qualify for Noom Med, you will be connected with a clinician who can determine if it is right for you. If it’s prescribed, your medication will be delivered to your door within seven days. Learn more about Noom’s GLP-1Rx program.

Making an informed choice with Noom

When considering Wegovy® or any other weight loss medication, it’s important to weigh the costs, coverage options, and potential alternatives carefully. While Wegovy® can be highly effective, its price and limited insurance coverage make it challenging for many people. 

See if you qualify for Noom Med to explore all the options with your clinician. Remember, medications work best when combined with sustainable lifestyle habits like balanced nutrition, regular movement, and mindful behavior change. Noom’s holistic approach to weight management offers the tools, education, and support you need to build lasting success—whether you choose Wegovy® or another medication. 

*Compounded semaglutide available on the Noom platform is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.

Note: Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, and Mounjaro® are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.