Healthcare

4 Ways Women Are Cutting Their GLP-1 Costs—One Trick Drops Ozempic to Just $25 a Month

Research shows that up to 92 percent of patients are spending more than they have to

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If you take a prescription weight loss drug such as Ozempic or Wegovy to help manage type 2 diabetes or support weight-related goals, here’s news you need to know: Research shows that 92 percent of patients are overpaying for their GLP-1 medications. Here, we reveal the simple tips that can help you cut your GLP-1 costs by hundreds of dollars!

How to reduce your GLP-1 prescription costs

While insurance coverage tends to be more widespread when taking a GLP-1 for diabetes, not all insurers cover GLP-1s for weight loss. But the good news is that there are easy “hacks” that can deliver greater cost savings than you may have thought possible—no matter what the reason you’ve been prescribed a GLP-1. Four proven strategies that work:

Nab manufacturer discounts

Pharmaceutical companies want to help you spend less on GLP-1s, so many of them offer savings programs that can dramatically reduce your monthly bill, says obesity medicine specialist Britta Reierson, MD, Central Medical Director of Weight Management and Primary Care at knownwell. 

However, the discounts on drug prices aren’t automatic—you must enroll to unlock them. Fortunately, signing up is easy. Just find the GLP-1 you’re taking:

  • Ozempic: With commercial (non-government) health insurance, you may pay as little as $25 for a one-, two- or three-month supply for up to 48 months. Without coverage, you could qualify for a self-pay option that costs $199, $349 or $499 per month. Learn more about Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic Savings Card.
  • Mounjaro: Provided your commercial plan covers it, you could pay as little as $25 for a one- or three-month supply. Without coverage, manufacturer savings from Eli Lilly could trim up to $463 a month off your cost. Just apply for the Mounjaro Savings Card.
  • Wegovy: If you have private insurance, you may pay as little as $0 per month for this GLP-1 drug from Novo Nordisk. Paying a cash price out of pocket? You may qualify for a flat-rate price of $499 per month. Activate your savings here
  • Zepbound: With insurance, you may qualify to pay just $25 for a one- or three-month prescription of Zepbound from Eli Lilly. If you’re paying out of pocket, monthly costs may drop to $349 a month for the starting dose, then $499 thereafter. Learn more here

Compare pharmacy prices  

Even after enrolling in a manufacturer savings program, it pays to shop around to help lower the cost of your GLP-1. “Pharmacies negotiate differently with wholesalers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers,” explains Dr. Reierson. As a result, the same GLP-1 medication can cost more at one drugstore than another. (Check out Costco’s Ozempic deal.)

Luckily, sites like GoodRx.com and SingleCare.com make it easy to see where your manufacturer discount will stretch the furthest. Just enter your medication in the search bar to compare prices. “I have many patients who are saving hundreds by switching from a high-priced pharmacy chain to a lower-cost rival,” she says. 

Tap pre-tax dollars  

“Think about using a Health Saving Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to pay for your prescription,” suggests Dr. Reierson. These accounts often let you use pre-tax dollars for GLP-1 medications that are prescribed for medical issues, like type 2 diabetes or obesity. “This could save you 20 to 40 percent on GLP-1 costs, depending on your tax bracket,” she says. 

Consider microdosing  

Ask your doctor whether taking a smaller GLP-1 dose is right for you. Microdosing can help stretch your medication supply while saving on costs as you work toward your health goals. “Potential benefits include long-term maintenance after weight loss and improved blood sugar levels,” says Gregory Pippert, MD, of Twin Cities Integrative Medicine. “This may also help people who are sensitive to the side effects and can’t tolerate ‘normal’ doses,” he adds. (Learn more about Ozempic microdosing.)

This story originally appeared in the November 24, 2025 issue of Woman’s World

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.

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