Insurance coverage for Ozempic and Zepbound declined significantly

Insurance coverage for GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Zepbound, has decreased significantly in 2025, despite rising demand for these medications. From 2024 to 2025, coverage for Ozempic dropped by 22%, leaving about 1.1 million people without insurance support. Similarly, the number of individuals without coverage for Zepbound increased by 14%, affecting around 4.9 million people. Even as prescription fills for these drugs grow—Zepbound fills rose by 300% and Ozempic fills doubled—insurance coverage has tightened. These medications are popular for their effectiveness in weight loss, but they can also be costly. The average price for Ozempic is about $997.58 per injection, while Zepbound costs around $1,086.37. Patients usually take these medications weekly, leading to monthly expenses exceeding $1,300 if insurance does not help cover costs. Recent analyses indicate that many patients face difficulties with their insurance policies. Coverage types fall into three categories: no coverage, restricted coverage requiring prior authorization or other conditions, and unrestricted coverage. Notably, coverage categories have changed slightly. For Zepbound, unrestricted coverage rose from 9% to 13% since 2024, but 14% of people lost their insurance entirely. Other GLP-1 medications like Victoza and Saxenda also experienced declines in coverage. The introduction of generic liraglutide helped some people gain coverage, yet many still face restrictions. The overall landscape for insurance coverage regarding GLP-1 agonists remains complex. Over 82% of patients using Wegovy, Zepbound, or Saxenda face some form of restriction. Insurance companies may view these medications as costly, focusing on profits and the short-term financial impacts rather than potential long-term health benefits. As the market evolves, patients considering these medications should check their insurance coverage closely.