Trulicity® costs in 2025: With and without insurance coverage

What you’ll learn:

• Trulicity^® is a once-weekly injectable medication primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes but may also lead to moderate weight loss as an off-label prescription.
• The list price of Trulicity^® is about $987 per month without insurance.
• What you’ll pay for Trulicity^® varies based on insurance coverage, manufacturer savings programs, and pharmacy pricing.

Losing weight can be challenging, and for some people, diet and exercise aren’t enough to address underlying metabolic issues. That’s where GLP-1 medications come in. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, these drugs have gained popularity for their ability to promote weight loss by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and regulating blood sugar. While they can be highly effective, they are often expensive, making it important to understand costs and all of your options.

If you’ve researched GLP-1 medications, you’ve likely heard of Trulicity^®. While it’s not as well known for weight loss as semaglutide-based medications like Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® or tirzepatide drugs like Mounjaro^® and Zepbound^®, Trulicity^® remains a widely used option for managing type 2 diabetes. Manufactured by Eli Lilly—the same company behind Mounjaro^® and Zepbound^®—Trulicity^® has been FDA-approved since 2014 for blood sugar control, but it is occasionally prescribed off-label for weight management. 

If it’s something you’d like to try, we’ll break down how much Trulicity^® might cost in 2025. We’ll go through what affects the price, how to get a prescription for it, and where to find it at the best rate.

What is Trulicity?

Like Ozempic^®, Trulicity^® is a once-weekly injectable medication that mimics the body’s natural GLP-1 hormone. The action targets receptors all over the body, including in the digestive tract and brain, to tell your body you’re not hungry. It also regulates blood sugar, which is why it’s good for people with diabetes. Trulicity^® is primarily prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes to help control blood sugar but is occasionally used for off-label weight loss.

Unlike newer GLP-1 medications like Wegovy^® (semaglutide) or Zepbound^® (tirzepatide), Trulicity^® isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss. Because of its appetite-suppressing effects, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label to support weight management. Studies show that Trulicity^® can lead to moderate weight loss—around 5% of body weight after 36 weeks. Read more about Trulicity’s benefits and who it’s right for.

How much does Trulicity^® cost without insurance?

Without insurance, you will pay close to the list price of Trulicity^®, which is about $987 per month, though prices can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Some retailers may offer discounts but out-of-pocket costs remain high. But there are some options that might help reduce these costs.

What factors affect the cost of Trulicity^®?

A few factors can influence how much Trulicity^® costs. Understanding these can help you determine what you’ll pay and whether there are ways to lower your out-of-pocket expenses. Since Trulicity^® is a brand-name medication with no generic alternative, pricing can vary significantly based on where you get your prescription, whether you have insurance, and what discount programs are available. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors involved:

• Manufacturer pricing: Eli Lilly sets the price of Trulicity^® based on demand, production costs, and market factors. Since GLP-1 medications are in high demand due to their effectiveness for diabetes and off-label weight loss, pricing may reflect these trends.
• Insurance rules and regulations: Your insurance plan plays a major role in how much Trulicity^® will cost you out of pocket. Private insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid all have different coverage policies, but in most cases, coverage is limited to people using it for type 2 diabetes rather than for weight loss. Coverage may also depend on factors like prior authorization or step therapy requirements.
• Manufacturer savings programs: If you have commercial insurance, you may be eligible for the Trulicity® Savings Card, which allows qualified users to pay as little as $25 per month for their prescription. We’ll go over the eligibility requirements and how to access this savings program below.

Beyond these factors, other considerations—such as where you fill your prescription, whether you opt for mail-order pharmacies, and whether you qualify for patient assistance programs—can also influence your final cost. In the next sections, we’ll dive into the 2025 pricing for Trulicity^®, how to check your insurance coverage and ways to save on your prescription.

When does insurance cover Trulicity^®?

Trulicity^® may be covered by insurance when used to treat diabetes but is rarely covered for weight loss. The type of insurance you have plays a big role. Many require you to meet certain requirements first, even for diabetes coverage, such as trying a cheaper medication first.

Insurance plans regularly update their drug lists, which could affect how they cover Trulicity^® and other similar medications. We encourage you to reach out to your insurance company or check their website to see exactly what your plan covers. 

What will Trulicity^® cost with insurance?

Even with insurance coverage, people still typically pay some out-of-pocket costs for Trulicity^®.  Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect with different types of insurance in 2025:

• Private insurance: For those with private or employer-sponsored insurance, Trulicity^® is typically covered for type 2 diabetes, though prior authorization is often required. According to Eli Lilly, 92% of insured people pay $30 or less per month, while the remaining 8% pay an average of $239. Since coverage details and copays vary, checking with your insurance provider is the best way to determine your out-of-pocket cost. Coverage for off-label weight loss use is rare.
• Medicare: For Medicare Part D beneficiaries, Trulicity^® is typically covered for type 2 diabetes, but out-of-pocket costs can fluctuate depending on the phase of coverage.
  • About 70% pay between $0 and $100 per month, while the remaining 30% pay an average of $207. 
  • Some people may qualify for Extra Help, a federal program that can lower the cost of Trulicity^®  to $4 to $9 per month. 
  • You can check eligibility and apply at the Social Security Administration website.
  • The list of covered medications updates annually, so reviewing your plan’s coverage each year is the best way to stay informed about your costs.
• Medicaid: For people with Medicaid, Trulicity^® is generally covered for type 2 diabetes, but specific coverage rules and copayments vary by state.
  • Prescription costs tend to range from $4 to $9 per month, though some states have lower copays or no copay requirements at all. 
  • 16 states have expanded Medicaid coverage for GLP-1 medications for weight loss, though access remains limited and requires prior authorization. 
  • To check your state’s Medicaid guidelines, eligibility requirements, and copay details, visit the Medicaid website or contact your state’s Medicaid office.
• Veterans Affairs and other government programs: Trulicity^®  can be covered through VA healthcare and TRICARE, but specific conditions and prior approval requirements apply.
  • Trulicity^®  isn’t on the VA’s list of approved medications, meaning people must submit a non-formulary drug request and obtain prior approval for it. 
  • CHAMPVA covers Trulicity^®  for eligible people if prescribed for type 2 diabetes. 
  • TRICARE also provides coverage, but prior authorization is typically required, and out-of-pocket costs vary. 
  • To check Trulicity^®‘s status under TRICARE, use the TRICARE drug search tool. Veterans and TRICARE members should check their plan’s approved drug list and consult with their healthcare provider to confirm coverage eligibility and any necessary approvals.

Can you get Trulicity^® for free with insurance? 

While getting Trulicity^® completely free isn’t typical, there are several options to help make it more affordable.  Again, for those with commercial insurance, the Trulicity^® Savings Card is your best bet for seeing significant savings. 

Will the cost of Trulicity^® increase as my dose increases?

The cost of Trulicity^® doesn’t increase as your dose increases. You’ll pay the same price whether prescribed 0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, or 4.5 mg per week. 

Tips to reduce Trulicity^® costs without insurance

Feeling overwhelmed by the cost of Trulicity^®? Here are some ways to help manage your medication costs:

1. Explore patient assistance programs: Programs like Lilly Cares are designed to help people who need a hand with their medication costs. 
2. Compare pharmacy prices: Use price comparison tools to find the best deals at local pharmacies. You might be surprised by how much prices can vary. We’ll explain these below.

How to get a Trulicity^®  prescription for weight loss

If you’re considering Trulicity^®  for weight loss, you’ll first need a prescription from a healthcare provider. While Trulicity^® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, it is sometimes prescribed off-label for weight management. Here’s what you need to know about the process and how to get started.

1. Review your eligibility: Trulicity^® can be prescribed off-label for weight loss to people with a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 and above with a weight-related condition, like high blood pressure.
2. Consult your healthcare provider: Schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor, endocrinologist, or weight management specialist to discuss your health history, medications, and treatment goals. You can also see if you qualify for Noom Med; if you do, one of our clinicians can assess whether Trulicity^® (or another medication) is right for you and prescribe it if needed.
3. Manage insurance requirements: If your insurance requires prior authorization, your provider will need to submit documentation of medical necessity, including details about your treatment history. 
4. Fill your prescription: Once approved, you can fill your Trulicity^®  prescription at a local pharmacy or through an online provider. 

Who shouldn’t take Trulicity^®?

While Trulicity^®  can be an effective medication for managing type 2 diabetes and off-label weight loss, it may not be right for everyone. Always discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

You shouldn’t take Trulicity^®  if you have:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
• Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) 

Inform your doctor if you have a history of:

• A history of pancreatitis
• Severe kidney disease 
• Severe gastrointestinal disorders

You should also avoid Trulicity^®  if you are:

• Pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Breastfeeding

Learn more here about who shouldn’t take Trulicity^®.

Medications that may interact with Trulicity^®

Certain medications can interact with Trulicity^®, requiring dose adjustments or additional monitoring:

• Other diabetes medications (e.g., insulin, sulfonylureas) – Taking these with Trulicity^®  can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Oral medications – Since Trulicity^®  slows stomach emptying, it may affect how certain oral drugs are absorbed.
• Medications that delay digestion – Combining Trulicity^®  with other gut-affecting drugs may increase side effects like nausea or bloating.

For the most up-to-date and detailed safety information and warnings, visit Trulicity’s official prescribing info page from Eli Lilly.

Can Trulicity^® be combined with other weight-loss medications?

Trulicity^®  should only be combined with other weight-loss medications under a doctor’s supervision. Combining weight-loss drugs can increase side effects and may not be safe for everyone. 

Where to get a prescription for Trulicity^® filled

Once you have a prescription for Trulicity^®, selecting the right pharmacy can help you find the best price. Prices for Trulicity^®  can vary by pharmacy, so comparing options could help.

Below are current price listings from GoodRx to help you compare. Enter your ZIP code on pharmacy websites or discount programs to search for prices at locations near you.

1. Warehouse clubs and supermarkets: Membership-based stores and large retailers sometimes offer lower prices than traditional pharmacies:

• Costco: $1094
• Walmart: $1060
• Target: $996.40

2. Retail pharmacies & prescription discount programs: Many national and local pharmacies provide discount programs or manufacturer savings cards that may lower costs. Current estimated prices:

• CVS: $996.40
• Walgreens: $863.85
• Rite Aid: $863.85

Disclaimer: Prices may change and are accurate as of publication. Costs can vary based on your location and pharmacy.

Will I have trouble finding Trulicity^® due to shortages?

You might, the FDA currently lists dulaglutide on its shortage list, but all Trulicity^® doses (0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3 mg, and 4.5 mg) are marked as available. This means that while the medication isn’t experiencing widespread supply issues, availability may still vary by location due to high demand. 

If you’re having trouble finding Trulicity^®, check with multiple pharmacies, explore mail-order options, or consult your healthcare provider for potential alternatives. For the latest updates, visit the FDA’s Drug Shortages database.

Trulicity^®: Side effects and warnings

Trulicity® comes with potential side effects, ranging from more common and mild to rarer and more serious. While many people tolerate the medication well, some may experience gastrointestinal discomfort or other symptoms, especially when first starting treatment. Let’s go through what you can expect and what to watch out for.

Trulicity^®: Most common side effects

The most common side effects of Trulicity^®  tend to be mild and temporary, often appearing when you start the medication or increase your dose. These usually improve over time as your body adjusts. Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Fatigue

If you receive your Trulicity^® prescription through Noom Med, your clinician will help you monitor and manage side effects.  If you’re taking Trulicity^® through a private healthcare provider, Noom’s GLP-1 Companion can provide additional support to help you manage symptoms, maintain muscle, and stay on track with your health goals while using the medication. (It’s free to add to your Noom subscription!)

Trulicity^®: Serious side effects and warnings

While Trulicity^®  is generally considered safe, it may carry serious risks for some people. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Pancreatitis – Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may spread to your back, with or without vomiting. 
• Vision changes – Any sudden vision loss or changes require immediate medical attention.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, and feeling jittery. This is more common in people taking additional diabetes medications.
• Kidney problems – Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting can worsen kidney function. Watch for reduced urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
• Gallbladder issues – Signs include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or pale-colored stools, which may indicate gallbladder problems.
• Allergic reactions – Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat could indicate a severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency care immediately.
• Thyroid tumors or cancer: Signs include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or persistent hoarseness. (This connection has only been seen in animal studies.)

Visit the official Trulicity^®  website for a detailed list of side effects and safety information. 

Trulicity^® alternatives to consider

Several alternatives in the GLP-1 receptor agonist family and other drug classes offer similar benefits to Trulicity^®. Some may cost less or be better covered by insurance. Here’s a breakdown of the available options:

Semaglutide medications

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with a similar action to dulaglutide (Trulicity^® ). People taking injectable semaglutide (Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®) lost an average of 15% of their body weight after 68 weeks. Here are the brand names and what they are used for:

• Ozempic^®  – Ozempic^® is a once-weekly injectable medication FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss. The list price is approximately $998 per month without insurance. Here’s more info on the cost of Ozempic^®.
• Wegovy^®  – Wegovy^® is FDA-approved for weight management and to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular events. The list price of Wegovy is $1,350 before any insurance coverage. If you don’t have insurance coverage and pay out of pocket, you can take advantage of Novo Nordisk’s new NovoCare^® Pharmacy, which lowers a month of Wegovy to $499. Here’s more info on the cost of Wegovy^®.
• Rybelsus^®  – Rybelsus^® is an oral form of semaglutide that is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes. If BMI requirements are met, it can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, though it will likely be less effective than injectable options. The list price for Rybelsus^® is $998 per month, the same as Ozempic. Here’s more info on the cost of Rybelsus^®.

Compounded semaglutide

Compounded semaglutide* through Noom GLP-1^Rx is another alternative. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can discuss whether compounded semaglutide is right for you. It starts at $149 per month and includes medication delivered right to your door. You’ll also get unlimited access to your clinician, a weight loss program designed just for you, and all of Noom’s trackers, tools, and exclusive exercise videos to help you stay on track.

Tirzepatide medications

Tirzepatide is a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, meaning it targets two hormone receptors instead of just GLP-1. This may lead to greater weight loss than semaglutide or dulaglutide, with studies showing that, on average, people lose 21% of their body weight in 16 months.

• Mounjaro^®  – Mounjaro^® is a once-weekly injectable FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes that is also prescribed off-label for weight loss. Without insurance, it costs about $1,080 per month.
• Zepbound^®  – Zepbound^® is FDA-approved for weight loss and to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The prefilled injector pen version has a list price of $1,086 per month. Zepbound^® also comes in the vial and syringe format for people paying out of pocket. Here’s more info on the price of Zepbound^®.

Liraglutide medications

Liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, but unlike Trulicity^®  or semaglutide, it requires daily injections instead of weekly. People taking liraglutide lost an average of 8% of their body weight after 56 weeks.

• Victoza^®  – Victoza^® is FDA-approved to help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and to prevent cardiac events. The cost ranges from $800 to $1,400 per month.
• Saxenda^®  – Saxenda^® is FDA-approved for weight loss and to prevent cardiac events. The list price for Saxenda^® is $1,349 per month without insurance. Here’s more info on the price of Saxenda^®.
• Generic liraglutide – A lower-cost version of liraglutide, the FDA recently approved generic options for type 2 diabetes. Pricing is around $470 for a pack of two pens and $704 for a pack of three pens.

Other diabetes and weight loss medications

In addition to GLP-1 receptor agonists, other medications can help manage diabetes and weight loss at a lower cost. While GLP-1 drugs are highly effective, they can also be expensive and may not be covered by insurance for weight loss. Fortunately, several alternative medications, including appetite suppressants and metabolic regulators, may offer more affordable options for those looking to manage their weight and blood sugar levels. Some of these medications work by influencing appetite, metabolism, or fat absorption, and while they may not be as potent as GLP-1 medications, they can still provide meaningful weight loss for certain individuals. Let’s take a look at the options:

• Metformin – A first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, metformin is sometimes used off-label for weight loss. It is generally much cheaper than GLP-1 medications and widely available. People in one study lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin.
• Orlistat – A fat-blocking medication that prevents the body from absorbing dietary fat. It is taken three times daily with meals, with costs ranging from $50 to $800 per month, depending on the brand (Xenical^® vs. Alli^®). Studies show that after one year, people taking Orlistat may lose an average of 10% of their body weight.
• Phentermine – A short-term appetite suppressant, phentermine is taken once daily and typically costs $27 to $100 per month. One study showed that 45% of the people who took phentermine lost 5% or more of their body weight in a little over a year.
• Diethylpropion – Another short-term appetite suppressant, diethylpropion, is taken one to three times daily and costs between $40 and $85 per month. Studies have shown that in 84 days of treatment, individuals were able to lose up to 10% of their body weight.
• Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave) – A combination medication that helps reduce appetite and cravings. If purchased through the CurAccess™ Patient Support Program, Contrave^®  costs $99 per month with free shipping. Without savings programs, prices range from $600 to $800 per month. In one study, people lost an average of 4% of their weight in 16 weeks. 

Making informed decisions about Trulicity^® 

Choosing the right medication for managing diabetes or weight loss can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. While Trulicity^® is primarily used for blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, some people may experience moderate weight loss. Newer GLP-1 and dual-agonist medications, such as semaglutide (Ozempic^®, Wegovy^®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro^®, Zepbound^®), tend to be more effective for weight loss. Understanding the differences between these medications, along with their costs, insurance coverage, and potential side effects, is essential when making an informed decision about your treatment plan.

If you’re considering Trulicity^®, it’s important to weigh your options carefully. The cost of this medication can vary widely depending on insurance coverage, manufacturer savings programs, and pharmacy pricing, but there are ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, while Trulicity^® may be a suitable option for some, alternative medications like semaglutide, tirzepatide, or even lower-cost weight-loss drugs may be worth exploring. Consulting with a healthcare provider or seeing if you qualify for Noom Med can help you determine the best approach based on your health goals, insurance coverage, and financial considerations.

*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: Triclicity^® and Ozempic^® are not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.