Ozempic, Wegovy Now Available at Costco for Nearly $1,000 Less
Popular weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy are now significantly more affordable, with a cash price of $499 per month available at Costco and Sam’s Club, a substantial reduction from the typical $1,200 to $1,400 cost.
The increased demand for GLP-1 medications has been substantial in recent years, prompting some healthcare systems to expand staff to manage the influx of patient inquiries and prior authorization requests. Currently, less than 50% of insurance plans cover these medications specifically for weight-related issues, leaving many patients facing high out-of-pocket expenses. “It’s daily that you’re talking to multiple patients about this medication class,” said Dr. Shawn Peavie, an endocrinologist with The Christ Hospital. “We’ve actually even had to hire extra people just to help with the coverage of the phone calls, messages, the prior authorizations, the appeals that are needed just for this medication class.”
Despite the Costco discount, affordability remains a barrier for many, leading some to explore unregulated online alternatives, a practice doctors strongly discourage. These compounded medications may appear cheaper, but carry significant risks due to a lack of FDA oversight and quality control. “When you’re looking online, be very careful with that because some of these are compound meds. You don’t know what you’re getting. They’re not FDA approved and regulated the same way,” Dr. Peavie cautioned. For those seeking safe alternatives, resources like GoodRx can help compare pharmacy prices.
Experts anticipate further price reductions in the coming years as more weight loss medications enter the market, potentially increasing competition and accessibility. Healthcare providers recommend discussing candidacy for these medications with a doctor and exploring direct-to-consumer pricing options offered by the drug manufacturers. The availability of more affordable options could significantly impact the growing obesity epidemic in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Peavie expects prices to continue dropping over the next year or two as more weight loss medications enter the market.
