December 6, 2024—The demand for weight loss medications in the U.S. has surged dramatically in 2024, with prescription fills for Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound more than doubling, according to a recent report by GoodRx.
Key Findings
- Wegovy: Prescriptions increased by over 100% since the beginning of 2024.
- Zepbound: Prescriptions rose by more than 300%, reflecting its first full year on the market following its U.S. approval in November 2023.
This significant uptick underscores the growing popularity of GLP-1 and GIP agonists, which mimic gut hormones to suppress appetite and regulate blood sugar.
Insurance Coverage Challenges
Despite the high demand, insurance coverage remains limited:
- Zepbound: Only 9% of individuals with commercial insurance have unrestricted coverage.
- Wegovy: Approximately 14% have unrestricted coverage.
Many patients face hurdles such as prior authorizations or higher BMI requirements, leading to substantial out-of-pocket expenses.
Financial Implications
The financial burden on patients is considerable:
- Zepbound: Insured patients pay over $2,500 annually in copays.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: From January 2023 to October 2024, the average monthly out-of-pocket expense for Zepbound was $231.
GoodRx estimates that Americans have overspent by at least $200 million by not utilizing available savings options, such as coupons or manufacturer assistance programs.
Savings Opportunities
Patients can alleviate costs through:
- GoodRx Coupons: Potential savings of approximately $250 monthly, or $3,000 annually, on weight loss medications.
- Manufacturer Assistance Programs: Offered by companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to reduce expenses.
This report highlights the escalating demand for weight loss treatments and the financial challenges patients encounter due to limited insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs.
Share your experiences with weight loss medications in the comments below.
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals for medical advice.
