How to Calculate GLP-1 Monthly Cost

What is GLP-1 Monthly Cost?

The GLP-1 Monthly Cost Calculator estimates your out-of-pocket expense for popular GLP-1 medications including Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. It factors in list price, insurance tier, copay cards, and manufacturer savings programs to give you a realistic monthly cost.

Formula

Monthly Out-of-Pocket = max(List Price - Insurance Coverage - Manufacturer Savings, Copay Minimum)

P_list: List Price ($/month) — Wholesale acquisition cost or retail pharmacy price
C_ins: Insurance Coverage ($/month) — Amount covered by health insurance plan
S_mfg: Manufacturer Savings ($/month) — Discount from copay card or patient assistance program
C_min: Copay Minimum ($/month) — Minimum copay required by insurance or savings program

Step-by-Step Guide

1Select your GLP-1 medication and prescribed dose
2Enter your insurance type (commercial, Medicare, Medicaid, or uninsured)
3Add any manufacturer copay card or savings program details
4View your estimated monthly cost alongside the full list price and potential savings

Worked Examples

Input

Wegovy 2.4 mg, commercial insurance with specialty tier, no copay card

Result

List price: $1,349/month, specialty tier copay: $150-$300/month depending on plan

Input

Mounjaro 15 mg, no insurance, using manufacturer savings card

Result

List price: $1,023/month, with savings card (eligible patients): as low as $25/month for first fills

Common Mistakes to Avoid

✕Assuming the list price is what you will pay — most insured patients pay significantly less through copays
✕Not checking if your specific plan covers the medication for weight loss vs. diabetes (coverage often differs)
✕Forgetting that manufacturer copay cards typically expire after 12-24 months

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Ozempic cost without insurance?

The list price for Ozempic is approximately $935-$1,000 per month (as of 2024). Without insurance, patients can check Novo Nordisk patient assistance programs or compounding pharmacy alternatives. Some patients use manufacturer savings cards to reduce costs to $25-$150/month if eligible.

Does Medicare cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss?

As of 2025, Medicare Part D began covering anti-obesity medications including semaglutide for weight management following the TREAT Act provisions. Previously, Medicare only covered GLP-1 drugs for diabetes indications. Check your specific Part D plan formulary for tier placement and copay amounts.

Are GLP-1 medications cheaper in Canada or Mexico?

Yes, GLP-1 medications are often 40-70% cheaper in Canada and Mexico compared to US list prices. However, importing prescription medications carries legal and safety considerations. Always verify the pharmacy is licensed and the medication is genuine.

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