Tirzepatide and Ozempic are popular medications for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Their costs can impact treatment decisions.
This article compares tirzepatide vs Ozempic cost, including prices, insurance coverage, and savings options, to help you choose the right option.
What Are Tirzepatide and Ozempic
Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro or Zepbound, is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It helps control blood sugar and promotes weight loss.
Ozempic, with semaglutide as its active ingredient, is a GLP-1 agonist for diabetes and off-label weight loss.
Both drugs are weekly injections. Tirzepatide may offer greater weight loss due to its dual action. Costs vary based on brand, dosage, and insurance, making price a key factor.
List Prices for Tirzepatide and Ozempic
Without insurance, tirzepatide’s list price is about $1,060–$1,200 per month for Mounjaro or Zepbound.
Ozempic costs around $935–$1,000 monthly for a 28-day supply. These prices reflect 2025 data from manufacturers.
List prices don’t account for discounts or rebates. Wegovy, another semaglutide drug, costs $1,300–$1,350 monthly, higher than Ozempic. Prices depend on dosage and pharmacy location.
Tirzepatide vs Ozempic Cost with Insurance
With commercial insurance, tirzepatide can cost as little as $25 per month via Eli Lilly’s savings card. Ozempic may also drop to $25 monthly with Novo Nordisk’s discounts, if covered. Copays vary by plan.
Insurance often covers these drugs for type 2 diabetes but may not for weight loss. Medicare doesn’t cover weight-loss drugs, and Medicaid coverage varies by state. Check your plan for specifics.
Savings Programs and Discounts
Eli Lilly offers a Mounjaro savings card for commercial insurance holders. It caps costs at $25 for up to three months, with annual savings up to $1,800. Zepbound’s program offers similar discounts, starting at $499 for self-pay.
Novo Nordisk provides savings cards for Ozempic, reducing costs to $25 monthly for eligible patients. Wegovy coupons offer $225–$500 off per 28-day supply. Uninsured patients face higher out-of-pocket costs.
Compounded Versions and Cost Savings
Compounded tirzepatide and semaglutide are cheaper alternatives. They cost $250–$400 monthly through online providers like Mochi Health, or $60–$240 directly from pharmacies. These aren’t FDA-approved and may not be covered by insurance.
Compounded drugs fill gaps during shortages of brand-name drugs. Quality varies, so choose reputable pharmacies. Consult your doctor to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Table: Tirzepatide vs Ozempic Cost Comparison
| Medication | List Price (Monthly) | With Insurance | Compounded Cost | Savings Program |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) | $1,060–$1,200 | As low as $25 | $60–$400 | $25–$499 monthly |
| Ozempic (Semaglutide) | $935–$1,000 | As low as $25 | $60–$400 | $25 monthly |
| Wegovy (Semaglutide) | $1,300–$1,350 | Varies | $60–$400 | $225–$500 off |
This table compares tirzepatide vs Ozempic cost, including list prices, insurance rates, and alternative options.
Factors Affecting Tirzepatide and Ozempic Costs
Drug prices depend on dosage, pharmacy, and location. Higher doses, like tirzepatide 15 mg or Ozempic 2 mg, cost more. Retail chains like CVS or Walgreens may charge differently.
Manufacturer rebates and market competition also play a role. Tirzepatide’s dual action makes it pricier than Ozempic. Future generic versions could lower costs, but none exist yet.
Insurance Coverage Challenges
Insurance plans often require prior authorization for tirzepatide or Ozempic. Coverage is more likely for diabetes than weight loss. Some plans exclude weight-loss drugs, leaving patients with high copays.
Appealing denials or switching plans during open enrollment can help. Pharmacists can guide you on coverage options. Always verify coverage with your insurer before starting.
Cost-Effectiveness of Tirzepatide vs Ozempic
Tirzepatide may be more cost-effective for weight loss. Studies show it reduces A1C by 2.01–2.30% and body weight by 7–13 kg, compared to Ozempic’s 1.86% A1C drop and 6–10 kg loss. Higher efficacy could justify its cost.
Ozempic offers cardiovascular benefits, making it valuable for heart disease patients. Long-term savings from better health outcomes may offset initial costs. Your doctor can help weigh these factors.
Regional Price Differences
Tirzepatide and Ozempic are pricier in the US than in peer nations. Ozempic costs $169 in Japan and $93 in France, compared to $935 in the US. Mounjaro is $257 in the Netherlands versus $1,069 stateside.
US prices reflect higher obesity rates and market demand. International prices don’t apply to US patients, but they highlight cost disparities. Compounded drugs offer a local workaround.
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Uninsured Patients
Without insurance, tirzepatide costs $12,000–$14,400 annually. Ozempic runs $11,220–$12,000 yearly. These figures strain budgets, making savings programs critical.
Uninsured patients can explore patient assistance programs based on income. Compounded drugs or switching to older medications like metformin may be more affordable. Discuss options with your provider.
How to Save on Tirzepatide and Ozempic
To reduce costs, try these strategies:
- Use manufacturer savings cards for insured patients.
- Compare prices at pharmacies using tools like GoodRx.
- Ask about compounded versions from trusted pharmacies.
- Appeal insurance denials with your doctor’s help.
These steps can lower out-of-pocket expenses. Always prioritize FDA-approved drugs when possible.
Choosing Between Tirzepatide and Ozempic
Cost isn’t the only factor. Tirzepatide’s dual action may lead to more weight loss, ideal for obesity. Ozempic’s heart benefits suit diabetes patients with cardiovascular risks.
Your doctor will consider your health goals and budget. Side effects, like nausea, are similar but may vary in severity. A personalized plan ensures the best choice.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
Both drugs are designed for long-term use. Tirzepatide’s higher list price may be offset by greater efficacy, reducing future medical costs. Ozempic’s established track record offers reliability.
Weight loss and better glucose control can lower expenses for complications like heart disease. Budgeting for ongoing costs is essential. Regular check-ins with your doctor optimize treatment.
Impact of Drug Shortages
Ozempic and Mounjaro have faced shortages, driving demand for compounded versions. Shortages raise prices for brand-name drugs due to limited supply. Compounded drugs help but carry risks.
Check pharmacy stock before filling prescriptions. Your doctor can switch you to available alternatives if needed. Staying proactive avoids treatment gaps.
Tirzepatide vs Ozempic for Weight Loss Costs
For weight loss, Zepbound (tirzepatide) costs $1,060–$1,200 monthly, while Wegovy (semaglutide) is $1,300–$1,350. Tirzepatide may offer better value due to higher weight loss (21% vs. 15% body weight). Insurance rarely covers weight-loss use, increasing costs.
Off-label use of Ozempic or Mounjaro for weight loss is cheaper than Wegovy but requires doctor approval. Discuss your goals to find the most cost-effective option.
Role of Pharmacists in Cost Management
Pharmacists can compare prices across pharmacies. They also explain savings programs and compounded options. Some offer free consultations to navigate insurance.
Ask your pharmacist about GoodRx coupons or Lilly’s self-pay program. Their expertise can save hundreds monthly. Build a relationship with your pharmacy for ongoing support.
Future Cost Trends
As tirzepatide and Ozempic gain popularity, prices may stabilize or drop. New competitors or generics could emerge, though not soon. Increased insurance coverage for weight loss may also help.
Monitor market changes during open enrollment. Advocacy for lower drug prices continues, potentially benefiting patients. Stay informed through reliable health news sources.
Summary
Comparing tirzepatide vs Ozempic cost reveals both are expensive, with list prices of $1,060–$1,200 for tirzepatide and $935–$1,000 for Ozempic monthly. Insurance can reduce costs to $25 with savings cards, but coverage is limited for weight loss.
Compounded versions cost $60–$400 but lack FDA approval. Tirzepatide may offer better weight loss, while Ozempic has cardiovascular benefits. Savings programs, pharmacy comparisons, and doctor consultations help manage costs.
Uninsured patients face high out-of-pocket expenses, making assistance programs vital. Long-term health benefits may offset costs, but budgeting is key. Check insurance and explore discounts to make treatment affordable.
FAQ
How much does tirzepatide cost compared to Ozempic?
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) costs $1,060–$1,200 monthly, while Ozempic is $935–$1,000. With insurance, both can drop to $25 via savings cards. Compounded versions are cheaper at $60–$400.
Are there savings programs for tirzepatide and Ozempic?
Yes, Eli Lilly’s savings card lowers tirzepatide to $25 monthly for insured patients. Novo Nordisk offers similar discounts for Ozempic. Uninsured patients may pay $499–$1,200.
Does insurance cover tirzepatide and Ozempic?
Insurance often covers both for diabetes, with copays as low as $25. Weight-loss coverage is limited, and Medicare doesn’t cover weight-loss drugs. Check your plan.
Are compounded versions of tirzepatide and Ozempic safe?
Compounded drugs cost $60–$400 but aren’t FDA-approved. They’re safe from reputable pharmacies, but quality varies. Consult your doctor before using compounded versions.
Which is more cost-effective for weight loss?
Tirzepatide may be more cost-effective due to greater weight loss (21% vs. 15% for Ozempic). Costs are similar with insurance, but Zepbound’s list price is lower than Wegovy’s.