Ozempic and Wegovy: A New Price Breakdown

Introductory Offer and Price Changes

• Introductory Deal: Uninsured individuals can purchase the lowest doses of Ozempic and Wegovy for $199 per month for the first two months.
• Price Increase: After the introductory period, the price jumps to $349 per month.
• Availability: This offer is available through the drugs' websites and select pharmacies.

Dose-Specific Pricing

• Lower Doses: The discounted price applies only to the 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg doses of Ozempic.
• Higher Doses: All doses of Wegovy and higher doses of Ozempic cost $349 per month.
• Exclusion: The 2 mg dose of Ozempic is not included in any discount.

Context and Industry Response

• List Price: The list price for both drugs remains around $1,000 or more per month.
• Partnerships: Novo Nordisk has similar deals with CVS, Walmart, and its own website.
• Political Involvement: President Donald Trump has mentioned working with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly to further lower out-of-pocket costs.

Demand and Usage

• Skyrocketing Demand: Demand for these drugs has surged due to their weight-loss benefits and potential heart health improvements.
• Survey Findings:
• Nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults has taken a GLP-1 drug.
• 1 in 8 are currently using one.
• Many still pay the full cost despite having insurance.

Expert Opinions

• Mixed Reactions:
• Some believe the new pricing will help more people afford treatment.
• Others worry the initial low price might lure people in, only to push them off treatment when the price increases.
• Concerns that employers might use these cash-pay options as an excuse to cut benefits.

Medical Perspective

• GLP-1 Drugs: Doctors emphasize that GLP-1 drugs are just one tool for treating obesity.
• Alternative Options: Bariatric surgery, widely covered by insurance, is also a good option for many people.
• Overall Impact: The price drop is seen as a positive step for patient access.