Can’t Afford Your GLP-1? How to Save Money, Switch Meds, and Stay on Track

Scripta
Jun 20
3 min read

GLP-1 meds like Zepbound and Wegovy are harder—and pricier—to get than ever. Coverage is shifting, compounded versions are disappearing, and out-of-pocket costs are soaring. Whether you’re insured or paying cash, we’ve gathered tips that can help you save money, switch meds wisely, and stick with your health goals for the long haul.

Ways to Manage GLP-1 Costs

How much you pay depends on your health insurance – but coverage or not, there are ways to make the costs of GLP-1s more manageable.

If you’re insured:

Know which GLP-1s your plan covers: Some plans may only cover certain ones for specific indications, i.e. only for diabetes, not for weight loss.
Explore savings cards: A manufacturer copay card may help reduce monthly costs. Through Lilly-Direct, Zepbound costs as little as $25/month with commercial insurance.
Change where you fill your med: Switching from a retail pharmacy to your insurer’s preferred mail-order or specialty pharmacy may help you find lower rates.
Tap into employee benefits: Your employer may offer a trusted navigation tool like Scripta’s comparison shopping app for prescriptions or fund an RxSaveCard (a prepaid digital card that subsidizes monthly drug costs), to help you find GLP-1s and save.

If you’re insured or uninsured:

Buy direct from trusted manufacturers: Cash-paying patients can pay $499/month for brand-name Wevogy through NovoCare Pharmacy or for Zepbound through Lilly-Direct.
Look for savings offers: Wegovy is running a limited one time offer through June for first-time fills via NovoCare plus its telehealth providers Hims & Hers, Ro and LifeMD.
Compare prices at cash-pay pharmacies: Resources like GoodRx, SingleCare, and Cost Plus Drugs can help you find the best cash price at online or local pharmacies.
Budget smartly: As your dose increases, you could see a rise in monthly costs. If you’re using GLP-1 vials, depending on the medication and your prescribed dosage, it may be tricky to calculate the true monthly cost.

Tips for a Smooth GLP-1 Switch

If your Zepbound is no longer covered, your compounded GLP-1 is no longer available or you’re not satisfied with the medication you’re taking, you’ll need to make a prescription change.

Prepare to start over: Not every GLP-1 is created equally. Switching to a new GLP-1 means starting at the lowest dose. Don’t expect to pick up where you left off.
Watch for side effects: Nausea, vomiting and fatigue are all common side effects and may return if you start a new med. Track your symptoms and report anything concerning.
Only buy FDA-approved versions: The FDA has stopped the sale of compounded GLP-1s. Although some pharmacies may have workarounds, they are currently facing legal challenges. Access may shift rapidly, and there could be potential safety risks.
Explore non-GLP-1 alternatives: There are other proven medications your doctor may recommend, like Phentermine for weight loss, Jardiance or Metformin for controlling diabetes. These options may be more accessible and affordable.

Strategies for Long-Term GLP-1 Success

GLP-1s treat chronic conditions and are intended for long-term use. To achieve success, you’ll need more than the right dose–it’s all about creating a sustainable foundation for lasting results.

Stay connected to your care team: Consistent monitoring, guidance and support–be it from your primary care doctor or even a telehealth provider–is the best way to stay on track, identify any issues quickly, and course correct as needed.
Consider bigger lifestyle changes: GLP-1s work best when paired with a healthy diet (which helps you lose the weight) and regular exercise (to keep the weight off).
Don’t fall for the wellness hype: Social media is a hotspot for buzzworthy, but often unproven, weight-loss trends. Before you buy into the latest “GLP-1” supplements–these are not GLP-1s, but rather clever marketing–do your research and talk to your doctor.
Advocate for yourself: If you’re not seeing results or can’t afford your medication, speak up. Discuss your coverage options with your doctor, insurance provider or HR benefits leader. Your health matters and you deserve the best care possible.

Want your employer to offer Scripta? Let us know at rxnavigation@scriptainsights.com.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical judgment, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment options.