Zepbound® costs in 2025: With and without insurance coverage

What you’ll learn:   

• Zepbound^® prices significantly vary with and without insurance, ranging from $1,060 per month without insurance to as low as $25 with savings programs and insurance.
• Insurance coverage for Zepbound^® is becoming more common. Verify with your provider and consider pre-authorization or appealing if initially denied.       
• Explore strategies to minimize out-of-pocket costs, such as using savings programs, comparing pharmacy prices, and checking eligibility for assistance programs.

While you’ve likely heard of Ozempic^®’s weight loss potential, you might be less familiar with Zepbound^®. Unlike Ozempic^®, which can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, Zepbound^® is FDA-approved for weight management. It can be prescribed to people who have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition—like high blood pressure. Zepbound^®’s active ingredient, tirzepatide, works by mimicking two hormones that your body makes. This action lowers appetite, stabilizes blood sugar, and makes you feel fuller for longer, which often leads to meaningful weight loss. People taking Zepbound lost an average of 15 to 21% of body weight in 72 weeks.

Zepbound^® is also the first medication approved by the FDA to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), marking a major breakthrough in weight-related health conditions. 

This all sounds great, but the reality is that Zepbound^®, like other medications in its class, is known for being very expensive. Without insurance, Zepbound^® can cost over $1,000 per month, making it difficult for some to access. Insurance also doesn’t typically cover Zepbound^®, though it is expanding, and there are several ways to reduce out-of-pocket costs through savings programs and assistance options. There are also several alternatives to Zepbound^® that you can consider if you can’t afford it.

Let’s break down how to lower the cost and maximize your savings or find an alternative that will work for you. 

Does insurance cover Zepbound^®?

Insurance coverage for Zepbound^® varies depending on your plan, though commercial insurance plans rarely cover weight-loss medications. Government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid also often have restrictions and may not cover weight-loss medication unless used for an approved condition, like OSA.

If you have commercial insurance and Zepbound is covered, Eli Lilly’s Zepbound^® Savings Card can reduce your out-of-pocket cost to as low as $25 per month. It’s best to contact your insurance provider to check if Zepbound is covered.

When does insurance cover Zepbound^®?

Insurance rarely covers Zepbound^®, but here are the first steps to see if yours might:

• Check to see if you meet the BMI requirements: To take Zepbound^®, you must have a BMI of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher and a weight-related condition like high blood pressure or OSA.
• Medical necessity: Your doctor will need to provide extra information, like your BMI history and previous treatment attempts, to prove that Zepbound^® is necessary for you.
• Prior authorization: Many insurers require a review before they cover Zepbound^®. Your doctor might need to submit paperwork to show that this medication is the best option for your situation.
• Other related conditions: If you have other health issues, such as OSA, the chances of insurance covering Zepbound^® might be higher. The FDA recently approved Zepbound^® for people with OSA related to obesity, which has helped to get more approvals.

Always call your insurance provider to check if Zepbound^® is on your list of covered medications and to find out what documentation is needed.

How much does Zepbound^® cost with insurance?

Insurance can make a big difference in your monthly cost for Zepbound®. Let’s break down what you might expect with different types of coverage.

• Private insurance: If you have private or commercial insurance, coverage for Zepbound^® is still scarce but is growing. Some private insurers do cover it, but they will require prior authorization. In many cases, insurance only pays for weight loss medications if there’s an underlying medical condition, like OSA or diabetes. Since coverage rules vary, checking with your insurance provider is the best way to know what you’ll pay. 
• Medicare (Part D and Medicare Advantage): For Medicare beneficiaries, coverage depends on the prescribed indication:
  • For OSA: Zepbound^® received FDA approval in December 2024 to treat moderate‑to‑severe OSA in people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Many Medicare Part D and Advantage plans now cover it for this purpose. Prior authorization is required, and copays typically range from $10 to $50 per month.
  • For weight loss: Medicare doesn’t cover medications prescribed solely for weight loss. Although price negotiations under the Inflation Reduction Act are underway, any significant savings aren’t expected until around 2027. So, for now, if you’re relying on Medicare for weight-loss medication, the coverage remains quite limited.
• Medicaid: Medicaid coverage for Zepbound^® varies widely by state. In many states, Medicaid will cover Zepbound when prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher and related health issues like OSA. In these cases, copays are generally very low (often between $0 and $5 per month). As always, check with your state’s Medicaid program to determine the specific guidelines and any required documentation.
• Veterans Affairs and other government programs: If you’re receiving care through the VA Health Care system, you might be able to access Zepbound^® through the MOVE! Weight Management Program. While Zepbound® isn’t on the VA’s standard list of VA-approved medications, it may still be available for long-term weight management through a special request, which requires prior approval from a VA healthcare provider. Beyond VA healthcare, other government programs like TRICARE have different coverage rules:
  • TRICARE covers Zepbound^® for long-term weight management, but there are requirements:
    • You must have a BMI of 30 or higher (or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition like OSA or high blood pressure).
    • Your provider will need to submit prior authorization showing that you’ve attempted diet and lifestyle changes for at least six months without significant weight loss.
    • Step therapy is required, which means you must have tried and not succeeded with at least one other weight-loss drug before TRICARE approves Zepbound^®.
    • If approved, TRICARE beneficiaries pay a $38 copay for a 90-day supply through the TRICARE Pharmacy Home Delivery program.

If you’re covered under any of these government programs, check with your healthcare provider and benefits administrator to understand your options and any necessary steps for approval.

Can you get Zepbound^® for free with insurance? 

It’s rare to get Zepbound^® completely free, even with insurance, but there are ways to bring your costs down. If you have commercial insurance that covers Zepbound^®, the Zepbound^® Savings Card allows you to pay as little as $25 for a month’s supply.

For those without insurance or facing financial challenges, the Lilly Cares Foundation Patient Assistance Program provides prescribed Lilly medications at no cost to eligible people in the U.S. based on income and other criteria. If approved, you can receive your medication for up to 12 months. 

Eli Lilly also has a self-pay program through LillyDirect^®, allowing people to purchase Zepbound^® in a vial and syringe form in 2.5 mg ($349) and 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg doses ($499). Keep in mind that as you continue taking Zebound, your provider will increase the dose to keep you losing weight as needed and tolerated. Zepbound is available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg doses. The highest doses only come in the auto-injector pens, which are over $1,000 per month.

What factors affect the cost of Zepbound^®?

There are a few key factors that can influence how much Zepbound^® costs:

• Manufacturer pricing: Eli Lilly sets the price of Zepbound^® based on demand, production costs, and other market factors. While recent Medicare price negotiations have targeted similar medications, Zepbound^® isn’t included in those talks yet, meaning its price won’t be subject to Medicare reductions until at least 2029.
• Insurance coverage and savings programs: Your insurance plan plays a huge role in how much Zepbound^® costs out of pocket. Savings programs and manufacturer discounts can help lower the price.
• Dosage and treatment duration: Your prescribed dose and how long you take Zepbound^® will influence your total cost. While the list price for pre-filled pens stays the same across different doses, single-dose vials follow tiered pricing, as noted above, with 2.5 mg vials costing less than 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg doses. Also, the longer you take Zepbound^®, the more you spend overall. Many people stay on Zepbound for six months or longer, with some using a smaller dose to maintain weight loss indefinitely.
• Pharmacy and location: Where you fill your prescription matters. Prices vary between pharmacies, and some offer better deals than others. Shopping around and checking for discounts could make a big difference in what you pay.

Understanding these factors can help you plan your budget and explore options to reduce costs. 

Tips to reduce Zepbound^® costs with and without insurance

Whether you have insurance or not, there are ways to lower the cost of Zepbound^®. Here are some practical tips:

1. Again, use the Zepbound^® Savings Card if eligible: If you have commercial insurance, check if you qualify. It might lower your cost to around $25 a month.
2. Explore patient assistance programs: If you’re uninsured or have a low income, you might qualify for programs that offer Zepbound^® at a reduced price.
3. Compare pharmacy prices: Use online tools or call around to see who has the best price.
4. Stay updated on your insurance: Insurance plans change, so review your benefits annually to catch any new opportunities for savings.

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

The cost of Zepbound^® depends on whether you use pre-filled pens or single-dose vials and if you have insurance coverage. Pre-filled pens have a list price of $1,086.37 per month, no matter the dose, so your cost stays the same even if your doctor increases it. Single-dose vials, introduced in 2024, follow tiered pricing: 

• $349 for 2.5 mg
• $499 for 5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 10 mg

Again, be aware that once you move beyond the 10 mg dose, you will need to step up to an auto-injector pen. 

How to get a Zepbound^® prescription for weight loss

If you think Zepbound^® might be right for you, here’s how to get started

1. Check if you qualify: Zepbound^® is prescribed to people who have a BMI of 30 or higher or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition like high cholesterol or high blood pressure. 
2. Talk to a healthcare provider or check Noom Med to determine eligibility: Schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor, endocrinologist, or weight management specialist. You can also fill out our brief questionnaire to see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, you’ll be connected with a clinician who can discuss your health goals, review your medical history, assess whether Zepbound^® is a good fit, and prescribe it if so.
3. Handle insurance requirements: If your insurance requires prior authorization, your doctor will need to submit paperwork proving that Zepbound^® is medically necessary.
4. Fill your prescription: Once approved, you can fill your prescription at a local pharmacy or through online providers that offer telehealth consultations and electronic prescriptions for convenience.

For more details on how Zepbound^® works, its benefits, and side effects, check out: What is Zepbound? Exploring the weight loss benefits, side effects, and cost

Who should not take Zepbound^®?

While Zepbound^® works well for many people, it isn’t for everyone. If you have any of the following conditions, you should not take it:

• A personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
• A history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal issues like gastroparesis
• Severe kidney disease, since the medication can increase the risk of dehydration
• Allergies to tirzepatide or any other components of the medication
• If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant 
• If you are breastfeeding, there isn’t enough data to know if Zepbound^® passes into breast milk

Always discuss your complete medical history with your provider to make sure Zepbound^® is a safe choice for you.

Medications that may interact with Zepbound^®

Zepbound^® works by affecting hormones in your body and can interact with other medications. Before you start, let your doctor know about all the medications and supplements you take. Some common interactions include:

• Other diabetes medications: if you take insulin or sulfonylureas, there’s a higher risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
• Oral medications: because Zepbound^® slows down how quickly your stomach empties, it can affect how some oral drugs are absorbed.
• Medications that affect digestion: Drugs that slow digestion or alter gut movement can worsen the gastrointestinal side effects of Zepbound^®.

Your healthcare provider can guide you on any necessary medication adjustments. For more details, visit: Safety Information for Zepbound.

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

Mixing Zepbound^® should not be used in combination with any other weight-loss medications. If you’re considering combining medications, talk to your healthcare provider first. They’ll help determine the safest and most effective plan for your weight management journey.

Where to get a Zepbound^® prescription filled

Once you have a prescription for Zepbound^®, choosing the right pharmacy can help you find the best price—whether you have insurance or are paying out of pocket. Prices for a month’s supply of Zepbound^® vary by pharmacy, so shopping around can help you save.

Below are current price listings from GoodRx to help you compare. Enter your zip code to search for prices at the locations closest to you.

1. Warehouse clubs and supermarkets: Membership-based stores and large retailers sometimes offer lower prices than traditional pharmacies. Estimated prices are (subject to change):

• Costco: $1,118
• Walmart: $1,166
• Target: $1,124

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

• CVS: $1,124
• Walgreens: $1,119
• Rite Aid: $1,089

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

Zepbound^® shortage: What you need to know

You may have heard that Zepbound^® and other GLP-1 medications have been difficult to find. The tirzepatide medications, Zepbound^® and Mounjaro^®, were both listed on the FDA’s shortage list due to unprecedented demand, manufacturing constraints, and supply chain disruptions. In December 2024, Eli Lilly announced that increased production had improved availability, and by late 2024, the FDA officially removed Zepbound^® from the shortage list. While many pharmacies now maintain a steady supply, demand remains high, and occasional stock limitations may still occur, particularly in certain regions.

If you’re having trouble finding Zepbound^®, here’s what you can do:

• Work on refilling your medication early with enough time to find an alternative pharmacy if needed.
• Call multiple pharmacies to check availability.
• Ask your healthcare provider if they know of alternative suppliers.
• Explore telehealth and online pharmacy options, which sometimes have better inventory.

What does this mean for compounded versions of tirzepatide?

With the return to full stock, the FDA has announced that compounded versions of tirzepatide—allowed as alternatives during shortages—are now being phased out. Restrictions on compounding are set to take effect in early 2025, which means that if you were using a compounded version, you need to find an alternative. 

If you need help navigating these changes, your healthcare provider and resources like Noom Med can help you consider alternatives. Staying proactive can ensure you don’t experience delays in your treatment.

Alternatives to Zepbound^®

If you can’t find Zepbound^® or need a different medication, several alternatives are available that work similarly. Here are a few options to consider:

Tirzepatide-based alternatives

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Zepbound^® and Mounaro^®. In fact, Zepbound and Mounjaro work the same and are prescribed in the same doses; they just have different approved uses. Mounjaro^® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes but can also be prescribed off-label for weight loss. The list price for Mounjaro^® without insurance is $1,086.37 per month.

Semaglutide-based alternatives

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in the well-known medications Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®. It’s also the active ingredient in Rybelsus, an oral GLP-1 medication. The biggest difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide is that semaglutide mimics just GLP-1, while tirzepatide medications also mimic GIP. Here’s a look at what these medications are approved for and what they cost:

• Ozempic^® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and is commonly prescribed off-label for weight loss to people who meet the same BMI criteria as Zepbound^®. It is a weekly injection that helps reduce appetite and promotes weight loss. The list price for Ozempic^® without insurance is $997 per month.
• Wegovy^® is FDA-approved for weight management in people who meet the same BMI criteria as Zepbound^®. It is also a weekly injection. The list price for Wegovy^® is $1,349 per month without insurance.
• 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. The list price for Rybelsus^® is $997 per month.

Compounded semaglutide 

Our compounded semaglutide* offered via Noom GLP-1^Rx contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can determine if it is the right medication for you and then prescribe it if needed. It starts at $149 for the first month and then costs $279 per month, billed in three-month increments. This price includes medication delivered to your door, unlimited access to a clinician, a weight loss plan designed specifically for you, and all of Noom’s trackers, tools, and community support. Read more: How to get a prescription for compounded semaglutide.

Liraglutide-based alternatives

Liraglutide is another medication that mimics GLP-1, but it requires daily injections rather than weekly. Here are the medications that contain it:

• Saxenda^® is FDA-approved for weight loss. Some insurance plans may cover it, but the list price for Saxenda^® is $1,349 per month without insurance.
• Victoza^® is FDA-approved to help control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes and can also support weight loss off-label. The list price for Victoza^® is $815 for a 3-pen package.
• Generic liraglutide has recently been FDA-approved for managing type 2 diabetes. The current cost for generic liraglutide is $469 for two pens and $704 for three pens.

Dulaglutide-based alternative

Dulaglutide is another GLP-1 receptor agonist with similar effects to Zepbound^®.

• Trulicity^® is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, and it is used similarly to Zepbound^® to help manage blood sugar and weight (off-label). It’s injected weekly. The list price for Trulicity^® is $987 per month without insurance.

Other weight-loss medications to consider

While GLP-1 medications are a very popular choice, other weight loss medications can also be effective or more affordable for some people. Here are some of the alternatives. (Always double-check the prices at your pharmacy for the most accurate numbers.) 

• Metformin – Metformin is FDA-approved for diabetes, but it can be prescribed off-label for weight loss. It can help people lose modest amounts of weight. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician can decide if a prescription for metformin is right for you. It will cost $59 for the first month and $89 for recurring 3-month supplies if prescribed. You’ll also get access to medical counseling, a coach, and Noom’s trackers and tools.
• Orlistat – This medication helps block fat absorption and is taken three times daily with meals. The cost can vary widely, ranging from $50 to $800 per month without insurance.
• Phentermine – Phentermine is an appetite suppressant designed for short-term use. It’s taken once daily to help reduce hunger. Prices typically range from $27 to $100 per month without insurance.
• Diethylpropion – Diethylpropion is taken one to three times daily and is used for short-term appetite suppression. Its price ranges from $40 to $85 per month without insurance.
• Naltrexone and bupropion (Contrave)– This combination drug is FDA-approved for weight management and helps reduce appetite and cravings. For people using the CurAccess™ Patient Support Program, Contrave is $99 per month with free shipping. If your insurance covers Contrave, it may cost less. Without these benefits, prices can range from $600 to $800 per month.

Each alternative comes with its own benefits and possible side effects, so discuss your options with your healthcare provider to find the best match for your needs. For more in-depth information on these weight loss medications, read: Weight loss medications: Exploring the options.

Zepbound^® side effects and warnings

Zepbound^® may come with potential side effects, though most people experience only mild symptoms that resolve as they get used to the medication. If you get your prescription through Noom Med, your clinician will work with you to manage any side effects and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you get your prescription any other way, be sure to add Noom’s GLP-1 Companion to your Noom program. It will help you keep track of side effects and offers nutrition guidance and on-demand fitness classes designed to help you build or maintain muscle while you work toward your weight loss goals. 

Common side effects

Some of the most frequently reported side effects that people report while taking Zepbound include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Stomach pain
• Decreased appetite
• Fatigue

These side effects are usually mild and often fade as your body gets used to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, talk to your clinician.

Serious side effects and warnings

Though rare, some serious side effects and conditions can happen while using Zepbound^®. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away:

• Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that radiates to your back, with or without vomiting. 
• Vision changes: If you notice any sudden changes in your vision while taking Zeobound^®, get immediate medical attention.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Symptoms include dizziness, shakiness, blurred vision, fast heartbeat, and feeling jittery. Low blood sugar is most likely in people who are also taking medications for diabetes. 
• Kidney problems: Diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can cause dehydration and worsen kidney issues. Go to the ER if you experience decreased urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
• Gallbladder problems: Symptoms include upper abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-colored stools. 
• Allergic reaction: Symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or a rapid heartbeat. If you think you’re having an allergic reaction to Zepbound^®, get immediate medical attention. 
• Thyroid tumors or cancer: Be alert for a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. (This connection has only been established in animal studies.) 
• Mood changes: Watch for any new or worsening mental health symptoms, such as depression. If you have suicidal thoughts, get help immediately.

For a complete list of side effects and detailed information, visit: Safety Information for Zepbound^®.

Making informed decisions about Zepbound^® costs

Zepbound^® pricing varies based on factors like insurance coverage, pharmacy choice, and available savings programs. With insurance and a Zepbound^® Savings Card, some may pay as little as $25 per month, while those without insurance could face costs exceeding $1,060 per month.

To manage costs, check your insurance benefits, including pre-authorization requirements and other rules. If you’re paying out of pocket, explore pharmacy discounts and assistance programs to lower expenses. Staying informed about pricing and available options can help you find the best treatment for your health and budget.

If you’re unsure whether Zepbound^® is the right choice, see if you qualify for Noom Med. Our clinicians can assess your weight-loss needs, prescribe branded medications, or suggest other alternatives if needed. You have options—finding the right plan can make all the difference.

*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^® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.