Wegovy and Ozempic both contain the same active ingredient: semaglutide. They are made by the same company (Novo Nordisk) and delivered through nearly identical weekly injection pens. The main differences lie in their FDA-approved uses, maximum doses, and how insurance companies treat them when the goal is weight loss.
Ozempic is approved primarily for type 2 diabetes control, while Wegovy is approved specifically for chronic weight management in people with obesity or overweight plus weight-related conditions. Because of these separate approvals, coverage, pricing, and out-of-pocket costs behave very differently depending on your diagnosis and insurance plan.
In 2025, the cost gap between the two can be dramatic—sometimes hundreds of dollars per month—even though the drug inside the pen is identical. This article compares real-world costs for weight-loss purposes, explains why the prices differ so much, and shows practical ways to lower your monthly expense safely.
Approved Uses and How They Affect Cost
Ozempic is labeled for adults with type 2 diabetes to improve glycemic control and reduce cardiovascular risk in those with established heart disease. Weight loss is a well-documented side effect, but it is not the primary approved indication.
Wegovy is labeled for chronic weight management in adults with BMI ≥30 (obesity) or BMI ≥27 (overweight) plus at least one weight-related comorbidity (hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease). It is used together with reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Because of these different indications, insurance plans and pharmacy benefit managers treat the two brands differently. Ozempic is more likely to be covered (or placed on a lower formulary tier) when prescribed for diabetes. Wegovy faces stricter prior authorization and higher rejection rates when the only documented goal is weight loss.
List Prices and Cash-Pay Costs in 2025
The wholesale acquisition cost (list price) for both products is set by Novo Nordisk and does not differ dramatically by brand. A single four-week supply of Wegovy (maintenance doses) lists at approximately $1,350–$1,400. Ozempic pens (maintenance doses) list in the same general range of $1,050–$1,350, with slight variation by strength.
Cash-paying patients at retail pharmacies usually pay close to these list prices after minimal markup. Expect $1,050–$1,400 per month for either product without insurance, discount cards, or assistance. Annual cash cost exceeds $12,600–$16,800 without help.
Discount platforms (GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver, Blink Health) reduce cash prices to $900–$1,100 per month at participating pharmacies. These reductions apply equally to Ozempic and Wegovy pens.
How Insurance Coverage Changes the Monthly Bill
Commercial insurance (employer-sponsored or marketplace plans) covers Ozempic more readily when prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Copays often fall to $25–$100 per month with the Ozempic Savings Card applied. Wegovy faces more denials or higher tiers when used for weight loss only.
The Wegovy Savings Card reduces out-of-pocket to $25 per month for commercially insured patients (subject to annual caps of $225–$500 in savings per fill). Coverage for Wegovy is improving in 2025, but many plans still require step therapy (trying older treatments first) or exclude it outright for obesity alone.
High-deductible plans force patients to pay full cash price until the deductible is met. After the deductible, coinsurance applies (often 20–50%), which can still mean $200–$700 per month until catastrophic coverage kicks in.
Manufacturer Copay Cards and Patient Assistance
Novo Nordisk offers separate savings cards for Ozempic and Wegovy. Both reduce copays to as little as $25 per month for commercially insured patients. The cards have monthly and annual benefit maximums and cannot be used with Medicare, Medicaid, or other government-funded plans.
The Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program provides free medication to uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income guidelines (typically ≤400% of the federal poverty level). Applications require proof of income, denial letters from insurance, and a valid prescription. Approval takes 2–6 weeks; medication ships directly at no cost for 12 months (renewable).
These programs do not cover office visits, lab work, or supplies. Patients must have a licensed prescriber willing to complete paperwork and monitor treatment.
Compounded Semaglutide as a Lower-Cost Alternative
Compounded semaglutide (custom-made by pharmacies) is the most affordable cash-pay option for many uninsured patients in 2025. Reputable telehealth providers charge $199–$499 per month all-inclusive, covering consultation, prescription, medication vials/syringes, shipping, and follow-up support.
Compounded versions are not FDA-approved, so quality depends on the pharmacy. Choose providers that use 503B outsourcing facilities, provide third-party sterility and potency testing, and require physician review. Avoid companies selling “research peptides” or shipping without consultation.
Compounded semaglutide follows the same dosing as Ozempic or Wegovy depending on the prescriber’s instructions. It is cash-pay only—insurance rarely covers compounded formulations.
Comparison of Monthly Out-of-Pocket Costs (2025 Estimates)
| Scenario / Product | Typical Monthly Out-of-Pocket (USD) | Includes Doctor Visits & Support? | FDA-Approved Product? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy + commercial savings card | $25 – $50 | No | Yes |
| Ozempic + commercial savings card | $25 – $50 | No | Yes |
| Branded cash price (discount card) | $900 – $1,100 | No | Yes |
| Compounded telehealth (reputable) | $199 – $349 | Yes | No |
| Uninsured + manufacturer PAP | $0 | No | Yes |
Compounded telehealth programs offer the lowest predictable monthly cost with built-in medical oversight for uninsured patients.
Practical Steps to Minimize Out-of-Pocket Costs
Check eligibility for Novo Nordisk patient assistance programs if uninsured (free medication if qualified). Submit applications early—processing takes 2–6 weeks.
If commercially insured, activate the Wegovy or Ozempic savings card before filling. These cards reduce copays to $25–$50 per month (subject to caps).
Compare cash prices using GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver, or Blink Health. These cards can lower branded costs to $900–$1,100 per month at participating pharmacies.
Research 3–5 reputable telehealth compounded providers. Ask about pharmacy source, sterility testing, physician oversight, and total fees. Choose 503B facilities for higher quality assurance.
- Quick Cost-Reduction Checklist:
- Apply for manufacturer PAP if uninsured
- Activate savings card if insured
- Compare discount card prices
- Research 3–5 telehealth compounded providers
- Verify 503B pharmacy and testing
- Track progress and side effects weekly
Safety and Monitoring Considerations
All semaglutide products carry similar gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation) that are most intense during dose escalation. These usually improve after 4–8 weeks. Rare serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and thyroid concerns (seen in animal studies).
Regular follow-up with your prescriber is essential. Blood work (A1C, kidney function, lipids) is recommended every 3–6 months. Monitor for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration.
Compounded versions require extra caution. Ensure your provider uses 503B facilities with batch testing. Report any unexpected reactions immediately.
Out-of-pocket costs for GLP-1 medications vary widely in 2025. Branded Wegovy and Ozempic remain expensive without coverage ($900–$1,400/month cash), but commercial savings cards, manufacturer assistance (free for qualifying uninsured patients), and reputable compounded telehealth options can reduce expenses to $25–$499/month. Compare legitimate sources, prioritize safety, and work with your doctor to find the most affordable path that keeps treatment effective and safe.
FAQ
What is the cash price for Wegovy or Ozempic without insurance?
The cash price for a 4-week supply is typically $1,300–$1,400 for Wegovy and $1,050–$1,350 for Ozempic at retail pharmacies in 2025. Discount cards can reduce it to $900–$1,100 per month at participating locations.
Can I get Wegovy or Ozempic free without insurance?
Yes. Manufacturer patient assistance programs from Novo Nordisk provide free branded medication to uninsured or underinsured patients who meet income guidelines (usually ≤400% of the federal poverty level). Approval requires financial documentation and takes 2–6 weeks.
Are compounded semaglutide programs much cheaper than branded?
Yes. Reputable telehealth compounded programs cost $199–$499 per month all-inclusive. These are cash-pay only and not FDA-approved. Quality varies, so choose providers with 503B pharmacies and batch testing.
How do copay cards work for Wegovy and Ozempic?
Copay cards from Novo Nordisk reduce out-of-pocket to $25–$50 per month for commercially insured patients (subject to annual caps). They cannot be used with Medicare, Medicaid, or government programs.
Does Medicare cover Wegovy or Ozempic for weight loss?
No. Medicare Part D excludes coverage for drugs used only for weight loss or obesity. Ozempic is covered when prescribed for type 2 diabetes; Wegovy is not covered for weight management alone.
What should I do if I cannot afford GLP-1 medication even with discounts?
Contact your prescribing doctor immediately. They can help apply for manufacturer assistance, switch to a lower-cost compounded option, adjust to a lower dose if appropriate, or prescribe an alternative medication with better financial support. Never stop treatment abruptly without medical guidance.
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.