Semaglutide is the active ingredient in popular medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. People often ask about its cost because prices vary widely depending on the form, insurance, and discounts. Monthly expenses can range from under $25 to over $1,000 without help.
Brand-name versions carry list prices around $997 for Ozempic and higher for Wegovy. Many patients never pay full price thanks to savings cards and insurance. Compounded versions offer lower costs but come with quality considerations.
This article details current 2026 pricing for semaglutide in all forms. It explains insurance scenarios, manufacturer programs, and ways to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Prices change, so verify with your pharmacy or provider.
Semaglutide Forms and Base Pricing
Semaglutide comes as weekly injections or daily oral tablets. Injections include Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight management. Rybelsus is the oral tablet version.
List prices start at $997 per month for Ozempic. Wegovy lists higher at around $1,349. Rybelsus also sits near $997. These are before any discounts or insurance.
Compounded semaglutide costs $200 to $600 monthly from pharmacies. This option was common during shortages but faces restrictions in 2026. Always confirm current pricing.
Cost With Insurance Coverage
Commercial insurance often reduces costs significantly. Manufacturer savings cards bring out-of-pocket expenses to $25 per month for eligible patients. The card applies up to $100 in savings monthly for up to 48 months.
Medicare Part D and Medicaid have negotiated lower prices around $245 to $274 per month for eligible beneficiaries. Copays vary by plan tier and deductible status. Prior authorization is usually required.
Check your specific plan details. Some insurers place semaglutide on higher tiers with larger copays. Pharmacy benefits managers influence final costs.
Self-Pay and Cash Prices
Uninsured or self-pay patients pay $349 per month for lower doses of Ozempic and $499 for the 2 mg dose. Introductory offers give new patients $199 per month for the first two months on 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg doses.
Wegovy follows a similar structure with cash prices starting at $199 for introductory low doses, then $299 or higher. Rybelsus cash prices range from $149 to $299 depending on dose and promotions.
These self-pay rates exclude government insurance. They process outside regular claims and do not count toward deductibles.
Manufacturer Savings Programs
Novo Nordisk provides savings cards for commercially insured patients. Eligible users pay as little as $25 monthly. The program runs for up to 48 months with the $100 maximum monthly savings.
New self-pay patients qualify for limited-time introductory pricing. Existing self-pay patients pay standard rates. Patient assistance programs offer free medication to qualifying low-income uninsured individuals.
Apply through NovoCare or the official websites. Programs change periodically, so check eligibility regularly.
Comparison: Semaglutide Pricing Scenarios
| Scenario | Monthly Cost (approx.) | Eligibility Notes | Duration/Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial Insurance + Savings | As low as $25 | Private plan, prior auth often required | Up to 48 months, max $100 savings |
| Self-Pay Introductory | $199 (low doses) | New patients, limited time | First 2 months only |
| Standard Self-Pay | $349–$499 | No insurance | Ongoing |
| Medicare Negotiated | $245–$274 | Part D beneficiaries | Ongoing with plan specifics |
| Compounded Versions | $200–$600 | Varies by pharmacy | Limited availability in 2026 |
This table shows typical 2026 costs. Actual amounts depend on dose, location, and eligibility.
Pharmacy and Discount Variations
Prices differ across pharmacies even with the same insurance. Some chains honor savings cards better or offer lower cash prices. Use comparison tools to find the best deal in your area.
Discount services like GoodRx provide coupons for cash payers. These may not combine with insurance but help when coverage is limited. Present the coupon at checkout.
Telehealth platforms sometimes bundle semaglutide with consultations at set rates. These include shipping and simplify access for self-pay patients.
International Pricing Comparison
Semaglutide costs much less in many other countries due to price controls. Monthly prices often fall below $200–$400 outside the U.S. This gap stems from regulatory differences and negotiations.
Importing from abroad carries legal and safety risks. Counterfeit products are common. Stick to U.S. pharmacies for verified medication.
Manufacturer U.S. programs remain the best way to lower costs domestically.
Tips to Reduce Semaglutide Costs
- Apply for savings cards – Check eligibility on official Novo Nordisk sites.
- Compare pharmacies – Use tools to find lowest prices locally.
- Explore patient assistance – Apply if uninsured and meet income guidelines.
- Review insurance yearly – Confirm coverage and copays annually.
- Ask about samples – Doctors sometimes provide starter doses.
- Consider dose optimization – Work with your provider for efficient dosing.
These steps maximize savings. Consistency with treatment remains important.
Factors Affecting Your Final Cost
Insurance type and plan design play major roles. Deductibles, copays, and tier placement determine monthly payments. Prior authorization can delay access temporarily.
Pharmacy network status affects prices. In-network locations usually charge less. Specialty pharmacies handle prior authorizations efficiently.
Dose strength influences some self-pay rates. Lower doses qualify for introductory offers. Higher doses carry higher standard prices.
Conclusion
Semaglutide costs vary widely from $25 monthly with insurance and savings cards to $349–$499 for self-pay options. Brand-name forms like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus have list prices around $997–$1,349, but most patients pay far less through programs. Compounded versions offer lower prices but limited availability in 2026. Medicare and Medicaid have negotiated rates around $245–$274. Compare options, check eligibility, and consult your doctor to find the most affordable and appropriate form for your needs.
FAQ
How much does Ozempic cost without insurance?
Ozempic self-pay is $349 per month for doses up to 1 mg and $499 for 2 mg. New patients pay $199 for the first two months on lower doses. These rates exclude government insurance.
What is the cost of Wegovy monthly?
Wegovy cash price starts at $199 for introductory low doses, then $299 or higher. With savings programs, eligible patients pay as little as $25 monthly. List price is around $1,349.
How much is Rybelsus without insurance?
Rybelsus list price is about $997 per month. Cash prices range from $149 to $299 depending on dose and promotions. Savings cards can lower costs further for eligible users.
Does Medicare cover semaglutide?
Medicare Part D covers semaglutide with negotiated prices around $245–$274 monthly for eligible beneficiaries. Copays vary by plan. Check your specific Part D details.
Are there ways to get semaglutide cheaper?
Yes, savings cards reduce costs to $25 for insured patients. Patient assistance programs provide free medication for qualifying uninsured individuals. Discount cards and pharmacy comparisons also help lower expenses.
Dr. Usman is a medical content reviewer with 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic health topics. His work is based on trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Usman is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.