Decoding GLP-1 Costs: Insurance vs. Cash-Pay
Without insurance, expect $199–$399/month for a compounded injectable program or $149–$299/month for an oral program. Brand-name self-pay runs $349–$499. With coverage, copays are typically $25–$150, but weight loss is often excluded.
The list price problem
Brand-name GLP-1s list at roughly $1,000–$1,350 per month before any discounts. Almost nobody pays that, but it's the anchor every other price is measured against.
With insurance
Coverage for weight loss specifically is uneven. Many commercial plans cover GLP-1s for type 2 diabetes but exclude obesity as a diagnosis. Medicare Part D does not cover weight-loss drugs by law, though it may cover the same molecule for diabetes or cardiovascular risk. When coverage exists, copays commonly fall between $25 and $150 per month, and prior authorization is the norm.
Cash-pay options
- Manufacturer direct programs: self-pay brand vials, typically $349–$499/mo.
- Compounded programs via telehealth: $199–$399/mo for injectable semaglutide or tirzepatide, usually including clinician visits.
- Oral programs: $149–$299/mo.
Side-by-side comparison
Ways to lower the bill
- Check your formulary first; a covered diabetes diagnosis changes everything.
- Ask about manufacturer savings cards if you have commercial coverage.
- Compare programs on the all-in monthly number, including visits and shipping.
- Use HSA/FSA funds; most programs qualify.
Enter what you pay now in the savings calculator to compare against these ranges.
- Manufacturer list prices and self-pay program pages, accessed Sep 2026.
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Part D coverage rules for anti-obesity medications.
- Published pricing from telehealth programs compared on this site, Sep 2026.
- FDA prescribing information for semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Prices are typical ranges as of publication and change frequently. We may earn a referral fee if you enrol through our links. Affiliate disclosure