How to Save Money on Weight Loss Prescriptions

How to Save Money on Weight Loss Prescriptions

Introduction

 

Weight loss medications like Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic, and Saxenda are highly effective—but they can also be expensive. With monthly retail prices ranging from $900 to $1,300 or more, cost is one of the biggest barriers for people seeking medical weight loss support.

 

The good news? There are several legitimate ways to save money on prescription weight loss medications, even if your insurance doesn’t cover them. Here we’ll cover the most effective strategies—from manufacturer savings cards to international pharmacies.

 

1. Use Manufacturer Savings Cards

 

Many pharmaceutical companies offer savings cards or copay assistance programs for patients with commercial insurance. These can lower your cost to as little as $0–$25/month.

 

Medication

Savings Program

Wegovy

https://www.wegovy.com/coverage-and-savings/save-on-wegovy.html

Zepbound

https://zepbound.lilly.com/coverage-savings

Saxenda

https://www.novomedlink.com/obesity/products/treatments/saxenda/cost-coverage/patient-savings.html

Contrave

https://contrave.com/save/

Qsymia

https://qsymia.com/patient/multiple-ways-to-save/savings-card-landing

💡 These programs typically don’t work for Medicare, Medicaid, or cash-paying patients.

 

2. Shop Around with Prescription Discount Sites

 

Sites like GoodRx and SingleCare allow you to compare prices across local pharmacies and print free coupons—no insurance needed.

Popular platforms:

Example savings:

  • Ozempic: Save up to $300/month
  • Contrave: As low as $99/month
  • Qsymia: Discounts vary by dose and location

✅ Pro tip: Prices can vary significantly between pharmacies—always compare.

 

3. Order from Licensed Canadian Pharmacies

 

If you’re paying out-of-pocket, licensed Canadian pharmacies can cut your cost by 50–70%.

 

Medication

U.S. Price

Canadian Price

Ozempic

$900–$1,200

~$419

Wegovy

~$1,349

~$599

Zepbound

~$1,060

~$500

Saxenda

~$1,200

~$515

📌 It is legal to import a 90-day supply for personal use. Learn more via the FDA’s drug importation page.

 

💡 Only use licensed and verifiable pharmacies with a physical address and pharmacist on staff.

 

4. Use a Health Savings Account (HSA or FSA)

 

If your medication is prescribed by a licensed provider and used to treat a documented medical condition (like obesity or Type 2 diabetes), you may be able to use your:

  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

Always keep receipts and check with your plan administrator for eligibility.

 

5. Ask About Generic or Off-Label Alternatives

 

Some medications (like Contrave or Qsymia) may have generic equivalents that are significantly cheaper.

 

Also, drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro—while not FDA-approved for weight loss—are sometimes prescribed off-label and may be covered by insurance if used for diabetes or related conditions.

 

✅ Tip: Ask your doctor if an off-label or generic option could offer similar results at a lower cost.

 

6. Explore Telehealth Bundles

 

Many weight loss platforms offer all-in-one telehealth + prescription packages that include:

  • Online medical consult
  • Medication shipped monthly
  • Ongoing support and check-ins

Popular services include:

💰 Plans start at $99–$150/month, depending on the medication and services included.

 

7. Appeal Insurance Denials

 

If your insurance doesn’t cover a medication, don’t give up—you can appeal.

Steps to take:

  1. Ask your doctor to submit a prior authorization
  2. If denied, request a written explanation
  3. Submit an appeal with medical records showing necessity
  4. If still denied, consider a state insurance commissioner complaint

Many patients have successfully gained coverage through the appeal process.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Prescription weight loss medications can be life-changing—but the price tag shouldn’t hold you back. Whether you use savings cards, discount programs, Canadian pharmacies, or telehealth bundles, there are many ways to save money and still get access to safe, effective treatment.

 

✔️ Compare all your options

✔️ Be proactive with insurance and savings cards
✔️ Never buy from unverified or shady sources

 

📌 For up-to-date pricing visit our Main Page.