How much does semaglutide cost? (Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus)

Key Points

• Semaglutide comes in three forms: Ozempic for diabetes, Wegovy for weight loss, and Rybelsus, an oral diabetes medication
• Without insurance, monthly costs range from $998 to $1,349, depending on the specific brand and dosage you need
• Manufacturer savings programs can reduce costs to $10-25 per month if you have qualifying private insurance coverage
• Insurance companies typically cover these medications more readily for diabetes treatment than for weight loss

Semaglutide has changed the way diabetes and excess weight-related conditions are managed, but the price tag for the medication can be overwhelming. Without insurance, monthly costs can range upwards of $1,000, which can be pretty steep.

The reality is more encouraging than those numbers suggest.

Through the strategic use of savings programs and a clear understanding of your insurance benefits, you can significantly reduce these costs. The key lies in knowing which programs you qualify for and how to access them.

What is semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking a natural hormone in the gut that reduces appetite, slows down digestion, and balances blood sugar levels.

Semaglutide is available in 3 forms:

• Ozempic: A once-weekly injectable that is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to lower the risk of heart attacks and stroke in people who have both diabetes and heart disease.
• Wegovy: Once-weekly injectable that is FDA-approved to treat obesity for adults and kids aged 12 and older who need to lose weight for their health. It also helps prevent heart problems in overweight people who already have heart disease.
• Rybelsus: The pill version of semaglutide to treat type 2 diabetes.

“All types of semaglutide need a prescription. Please consult with your healthcare provider to learn what option may work best for you based on your health needs and goals,” says Dr. Gia Eapen, MD.

How much does Ozempic cost?

Ozempic list price

One month's supply of Ozempic costs $997.58 before discounts. The medication costs the same amount regardless of dosage strength, whether you need 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg.

Your actual cost may be lower than the list price due to insurance coverage and available discount programs.

How much does Ozempic cost with private insurance?

How much you pay depends on three factors:

• The type of insurance plan you have
• Whether Ozempic is listed under your health plan's list of covered drugs
• Your deductible

You may be eligible to pay as little as $25 for a 1-month, 2-month, or 3-month supply, for up to 48 months with a savings card if your health insurance plan covers Ozempic.

Please note that:

• One month means 28 days
• Government beneficiaries are excluded from this offer
• The manufacturer can change or stop this offer at any time
• You may have to meet certain rules to qualify

How much does Ozempic cost with Medicare?

Medicare Part D (the part that covers prescription drugs) may cover Ozempic for diabetes treatment.

With Medicare in 2025, here's what to expect:

• Medicare may cover semaglutide for diabetes, but it may not cover weight loss
• You might pay up to $590 per year before coverage starts (the deductible)
• After that, you will have to pay a portion of the cost (copay or coinsurance)

In 2025, after meeting your deductible, you pay 25% of drug costs until you've spent a total of $2,000. Once you reach $2,000, "catastrophic coverage" starts, and your costs drop dramatically for the rest of the year.

How much does Ozempic cost with Medicaid?

Medicaid rules vary from state to state. Medicaid may cover Ozempic if it is medically prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Call your state's Medicaid office to learn about your state’s coverage.

How much does Wegovy cost?

The list price for Wegovy

Wegovy costs $1,349.02 for a 28-day supply. Like Ozempic, you may not have to pay this full price because of insurance plans and discount programs.

How much does Wegovy cost with private insurance?

If your commercial insurance covers Wegovy, then you can pay as little as $0 per 28-day supply (one month) on Wegovy, subject to a maximum savings of $225 per month.

Most insurance plans require approval first before covering Wegovy (excluding government insurance). This approval process helps the insurance company decide if the medication is medically necessary for you.

However, many insurance plans may not yet cover Wegovy for weight loss. If your insurance plan does not cover Wegovy, you can get Wegovy doses for $499 per month through the Wegovy savings offer by ordering from the Novocare pharmacy.

How much does Wegovy cost with Medicare?

Medicare coverage for Wegovy may be limited because Medicare often does not cover medications used solely for weight loss. However, Medicare might cover Wegovy if prescribed to lower the risk of heart attacks and stroke in people who are overweight and have pre-existing heart disease.

How much does Wegovy cost with Medicaid?

Medicaid rules change dramatically from state to state. Many states may not cover weight loss medicines like Wegovy at all. Some states may cover the cost of Wegovy if your doctor demonstrates that it's medically necessary and you meet specific requirements. Please check with your State's Medicaid program to determine coverage.

How much does Rybelsus cost?

The list price for Rybelsus

A month's supply of Rybelsus 7 mg tablets costs $997. The 14 mg tablets cost about the same. This makes Rybelsus similar in price to Ozempic.

How much does Rybelsus cost with insurance?

If you have commercial insurance that covers Rybelsus, you may pay as little as $10 per month for a 1, 2, or 3-month subscription.

• For 7 mg or 14 mg doses: Your prescription must be for 1, 2, or 3 months to qualify for this offer
• For a 3 mg dose: Pay as little as $10 per month

The maximum savings are up to $300 off for a 1-month supply, $600 off a 2-month supply, or $900 off a 3-month supply. This does not apply to individuals with government insurance.

How much does Rybelsus cost with Medicare?

Medicare may cover the cost of Rybelsus for type 2 diabetes.

Medicare patients typically see:

• Yearly deductible up to $590 in 2025
• 25% of the cost after meeting the deductible (no generic version exists yet)
• A maximum out-of-pocket cost of $2,000 per year (starting in 2025). Once this limit is reached, catastrophic coverage kicks in, resulting in a steep drop in costs.

How much does Rybelsus cost with Medicaid?

Medicaid coverage varies by state and requires prior approval. Please review your state’s coverage plan to learn if Rybelsus is included.

Final thoughts: How much does semaglutide cost?

Semaglutide is effective for treating diabetes and promoting weight loss. But the cost can be a real barrier. The secret to making them affordable is understanding your insurance coverage and taking advantage of discount programs.

Begin by contacting your insurance company to verify your coverage. If you have private insurance, savings programs offered by the drug manufacturer can help lower costs considerably. If you do not have commercial insurance, look into patient assistance programs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

How do I get ozempic for $25 a month?

To get Ozempic for $25 monthly, you need to have a valid prescription and private insurance or employer-sponsored insurance that covers the medication. You could sign up for the savings card on the Novocare website and see if you qualify for the drug’s discount program. Please note: Those with government insurance, like Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits, are not eligible for these discount programs.

Is semaglutide worth it for weight loss?

Semaglutide can help with weight loss when paired with a nutritious diet and regular exercise. Studies show that you can lose an average of 15% of your body weight over about 68 weeks. But weight loss results vary from person to person. Consult with your doctor to discuss the benefits, risks, and costs of semaglutide and determine if it is right for you.

What is the cheapest form of semaglutide without insurance?

Without insurance, all the FDA-approved versions cost $991-$1,349 per month. You may be able to obtain it at a lower cost through the drug company's savings and assistance programs. Your doctor will help you determine the best option based on your specific health needs.

How much weight can I lose in two months on semaglutide?

One study showed that in two months (8 weeks), people lost about 4% of their body weight. So if you weigh 200 pounds, a 4% loss would be about 8 pounds in two months. In longer studies, people lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks. Weight loss is different for everyone. How much you lose depends on your starting weight, the dose you take, your diet and lifestyle, and how your individual body responds to semaglutide.

Can you reduce the cost of semaglutide with savings cards or coupons?

Yes, several programs can significantly reduce the cost of semaglutide. Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer, offers discount cards for Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus that can lower your monthly costs if you have private or employer-sponsored insurance and meet eligibility requirements.

How much does semaglutide cost per month, with and without insurance?

Without insurance, you may pay $991 to $1,349 per month, depending on the medication and dose. With commercial insurance and discount programs, costs can drop to $10-$25 per month for those who are eligible.

Does insurance cover Wegovy for weight loss?

Insurance coverage for weight loss medications is challenging across all plan types. Most commercial insurers don't cover Wegovy for weight loss, though some may approve it if your doctor demonstrates medical necessity and you meet stringent criteria.

Find a weight loss dietitian near you, covered by insurance.

The views expressed by authors and contributors of such content are not endorsed or approved by Fay and are intended for informational purposes only. The content is reviewed by Fay only to confirm educational value and audience interest. You are encouraged to discuss any questions that you may have about your health with a healthcare provider.