Does My Insurance Cover GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss?

How to Evaluate Your Coverage:

As GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound gain popularity for weight loss, many people wonder: Does my insurance cover GLP-1 medications? Unfortunately, insurance coverage for these medications can be confusing and inconsistent. Here’s how you can find out if your plan includes coverage and what steps to take.

What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 receptor agonists (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 medications) include semaglutide, tirzepatide, and liraglutide, which are commonly prescribed under brand names like:

• Ozempic (semaglutide) – Approved for Type 2 diabetes, sometimes used off-label for weight loss
• Wegovy (semaglutide) – FDA-approved for weight loss
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – Approved for Type 2 diabetes, with weight loss benefits
• Zepbound (tirzepatide) – FDA-approved for weight loss
• Saxenda (liraglutide) – FDA-approved for weight loss

These medications work by regulating blood sugar, reducing appetite, and slowing digestion, making them highly effective for weight loss and improving metabolic health.

How to Check If Your Insurance Covers GLP-1 Medications:

Here are the best ways to determine if your insurance plan covers Zepbound, Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Ozempic for weight loss:

1. Call Your Insurance Company (Best Method)

Look for the customer service number on the back of your insurance card and ask the following questions:

• Do I have coverage for anti-obesity or weight loss medications? (They may list them under different categories.)
• Does my plan cover Mounjaro, Zepbound, Wegovy, Ozempic, or Saxenda? If not, ask which medications are covered.
• Do I need a prior authorization for these medications?
• What medical criteria must I meet for coverage? (E.g., BMI requirements, diabetes diagnosis, or other conditions.)
• What is my deductible or copay for these medications?
• Does my plan require me to meet my deductible before coverage kicks in?

2. Check Your Insurance Provider’s Website

Many insurers provide an online medication formulary where you can search for covered prescriptions. Log into your insurance portal and look for:

• Prescription drug list
• Coverage tiers (which affect costs)
• Requirements like prior authorization

After checking online, call to verify, as online information can sometimes be outdated or unclear.

3. Ask Your Employer’s Benefits Coordinator

If you have employer-sponsored insurance, ask your HR or benefits department about weight loss medication coverage. Some employers can opt in or out of GLP-1 medication coverage. If your plan doesn’t cover them now, advocating for coverage could make a difference in future plan updates.

Why Are GLP-1 Medications So Expensive?

Insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications is limited because they are costly, averaging $1,000+ per month without coverage. Between 2024 and 2025, an estimated 6 million people lost insurance coverage for these drugs due to policy changes.

💡 Manufacturer Coupons & Savings Programs: If your insurance partially covers these medications, drug manufacturers may offer savings cards or discount programs to lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Next Steps: What to Do If You Qualify for Coverage

If your insurance covers a GLP-1 medication, let your healthcare provider know. At Weight Loss NP, we can assist with prior authorizations and determine if you meet the medical criteria.

🔹 Need help navigating weight loss options? Contact us at Weight Loss NP to discuss personalized weight loss plans and medication eligibility. We have FREE CONSULTS!

By following these steps, you can determine whether your insurance will cover Mounjaro, Zepbound, Wegovy, Ozempic, or Saxenda—and take the next step toward achieving your weight loss goals.

What If You Don’t Have Insurance Coverage for These Medications?

If your insurance does not cover GLP-1 medications, Weight Loss NP can help you explore all FDA-approved weight loss medications, including more affordable options. We also have access to GLP-1 medications through compounding pharmacies to help keep costs down. Visit our Services Page for more details, and book a free consultation to learn more about your options.