GLP-1 receptor agonist medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have become widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management. However, costs vary dramatically depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy type, and whether you use brand-name or compounded versions. Use this calculator to compare monthly and annual costs across medications and insurance scenarios.
Pricing Disclaimer
Prices are approximate and vary by pharmacy, location, and insurance plan. Updated March 2026. Verify with your pharmacy for exact pricing. This tool is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice.
Compare Medication Costs
Select your insurance coverage level for GLP-1 medications
Monthly Cost Comparison
| Medication | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | Cost/Injection | Type |
|---|
Brand vs Compounded Savings
Insurance Impact
Prices last updated: March 2026. Actual costs depend on your specific pharmacy, location, insurance plan, and any manufacturer savings programs. Many brands offer savings cards that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Always confirm pricing with your pharmacy before filling a prescription.
GLP-1 Medication Quick Reference
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Approved For | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly injection |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Weight Management | Weekly injection |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly injection |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Weight Management | Weekly injection |
All GLP-1 medications are prescription-only. Consult your healthcare provider to determine which medication is appropriate for you.
How to Use the GLP-1 Cost Calculator
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications have become some of the most prescribed drugs in the United States, but their cost can be a major barrier to treatment. The GLP-1 cost calculator helps you compare monthly and annual expenses across brand-name and compounded options so you can make informed decisions about your treatment plan.
Step 1: Select Medications to Compare
Choose two or more GLP-1 medications you want to compare. Options include brand-name drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, as well as compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide alternatives. Selecting multiple medications gives you a side-by-side view of how costs differ.
Step 2: Set Your Insurance Status
Select your insurance coverage level. If your plan covers the medication on a preferred formulary tier, your copay will be significantly lower than the full retail price. Non-preferred coverage still provides savings but at a higher copay. If your insurance does not cover GLP-1 medications or you are uninsured, you will see the full cash price. Medicare and Medicaid coverage varies by state and plan.
Step 3: Choose Your Pharmacy Type
Retail pharmacies are the most convenient but typically charge the highest prices. Mail-order pharmacies offer 5-15% savings and the convenience of home delivery. Specialty pharmacies may provide additional support programs and competitive pricing for GLP-1 medication prescriptions.
Step 4: Review the Comparison
The results show a comparison table with monthly cost, annual cost, and cost per injection for each selected medication. Below the table, you can see potential savings from switching to compounded versions and the financial impact of insurance coverage. Use these figures to discuss options with your healthcare provider.
Understanding Compounded GLP-1 Medications
Compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are prepared by compounding pharmacies and typically cost 60-80% less than brand-name versions. While they contain the same active ingredients, compounded medications are not FDA-approved products and their availability may change based on FDA shortage designations. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before choosing a compounded option.
Tips for Reducing GLP-1 Costs
Manufacturer savings cards can reduce copays to as low as $25 per month for eligible patients. Patient assistance programs exist for those who qualify based on income. Some employers are adding GLP-1 coverage to their health plans due to long-term cost savings from improved metabolic health. Always ask your doctor and pharmacist about available cost-saving programs before filling your prescription.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this GLP-1 cost calculator free?
Yes, this calculator is completely free with no limits or signup required. You can compare medication costs as many times as you need. All calculations run locally in your browser and no personal or medical data is stored or transmitted.
Is my data safe and private?
Yes, all calculations run entirely in your browser using client-side JavaScript. No insurance information, medication selections, or personal details are sent to any server. Your data stays on your device only.
How accurate are the GLP-1 medication prices shown?
Prices shown are approximate ranges based on publicly available data as of March 2026. Actual costs vary significantly by pharmacy, location, insurance plan, and manufacturer discount programs. Always verify pricing with your specific pharmacy and insurance provider before making decisions.
What is the difference between brand-name and compounded GLP-1 medications?
Brand-name GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies under FDA approval. Compounded versions are prepared by compounding pharmacies using the same active ingredients (semaglutide or tirzepatide) but at lower cost. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved products and quality can vary by pharmacy.
Why is Wegovy more expensive than Ozempic?
Wegovy and Ozempic both contain semaglutide but are approved for different uses. Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management at higher doses (up to 2.4 mg weekly), while Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes at lower doses (up to 2 mg weekly). The higher dosing and weight-loss indication contribute to Wegovy's higher price.
Does insurance typically cover GLP-1 medications?
Coverage varies widely. Many insurance plans cover Ozempic and Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes but may not cover Wegovy or Zepbound for weight loss alone. When covered, copays range from $25 to $300 per month depending on whether the medication is on your plan's preferred formulary. Check with your insurer for specific coverage details.
What does preferred vs non-preferred formulary mean?
Insurance formularies are lists of covered medications organized into tiers. Preferred formulary means the medication is on a lower cost tier with copays typically ranging from $25 to $75 per month. Non-preferred means the medication is covered but at a higher tier, with copays usually between $150 and $300 per month.
Can I save money by using a mail-order pharmacy?
Yes, mail-order pharmacies typically offer 5-15% savings compared to retail pharmacies. Many insurance plans also offer lower copays for mail-order prescriptions, often providing a 90-day supply for the cost of two monthly copays. Specialty pharmacies may offer additional savings programs.