Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly spend billions on patient savings programs — but the eligibility rules are complex and constantly changing. This guide breaks down every active program, who qualifies, and what you'll actually pay.
Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate links. Savings program details verified May 2026 but may change — always confirm on manufacturer websites.
Novo Nordisk Savings Programs
Novo Nordisk manufactures Wegovy (semaglutide for weight loss), Ozempic (semaglutide for diabetes), and Rybelsus (oral semaglutide).
Wegovy Savings Card
| Detail | Terms |
|---|---|
| Eligible patients | Commercially insured patients whose plan covers Wegovy |
| Potential savings | May reduce copay; specific terms vary by program period |
| Duration | Terms set by program period — typically renewable |
| Not eligible | Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, VA, or government-insured patients |
Ozempic Savings Card
Similar structure to Wegovy but for the diabetes indication. Commercially insured patients with Ozempic coverage may pay significantly less per fill. Check NovoCare.com for current terms.
Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP)
For uninsured patients or those who meet income guidelines, Novo Nordisk offers a Patient Assistance Program that may provide medications at no cost. Income limits and documentation requirements apply.
Eli Lilly Savings Programs
Eli Lilly manufactures Mounjaro (tirzepatide for diabetes) and Zepbound (tirzepatide for weight loss).
Zepbound Savings Card
| Detail | Terms |
|---|---|
| Eligible patients | Commercially insured patients |
| Lilly Direct option | Cash-pay through LillyDirect.com — Zepbound single-dose vials at reduced pricing |
| Potential savings | Varies — Lilly has offered options from $399–$549/mo for cash-pay vials |
| Not eligible | Government insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare) |
Eli Lilly's direct-to-patient program offers Zepbound single-dose vials at reduced cash prices. This bypasses insurance entirely. Check LillyDirect.com for current pricing — terms change frequently.
Who Can't Use Manufacturer Savings Cards
Federal law prohibits manufacturer copay assistance for government-insured patients. This includes:
- Medicare Part D beneficiaries
- Medicaid recipients
- Tricare members
- VA beneficiaries
- Federal employee (FEHB) plans — may have partial restrictions
If you're in one of these categories, your options are patient assistance programs (income-based), the Medicare BALANCE Model (for Wegovy), or compounded alternatives.
When Compounded Is Cheaper Than Savings Cards
Here's a comparison that surprises many patients:
| Route | Approximate Monthly Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Brand + savings card | $399–$600/mo | Patients who want FDA-approved pens |
| Compounded sema | $130–$199/mo | Cash-pay patients seeking lowest cost |
| Brand + full insurance | $0–$50/mo | Patients with strong AOM coverage |
Even with a savings card, brand-name medications often cost $400–600/month. Compounded alternatives at $130–199/month can save $200–400/month over savings card pricing.
How to Maximize Savings
- Check insurance coverage first — a $25 copay beats any savings card or compounded option
- Apply for the manufacturer savings card — if commercially insured, this is your next best option
- Compare savings card price vs. compounded — if your savings card still leaves you at $400+/month, compounded may be cheaper
- Check patient assistance programs — if uninsured and meeting income guidelines, you may qualify for free medication
- Consider the total picture — savings card terms change, expire, and may not renew. Factor in long-term sustainability
- Manufacturer savings cards can substantially reduce brand-name GLP-1 costs for commercially insured patients
- Government insurance (Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, VA) patients cannot use manufacturer copay cards
- LillyDirect offers cash-pay Zepbound vials at reduced pricing — check current terms
- Compounded alternatives ($130–$199/mo) often cost less than brand + savings card ($400–$600/mo)
- Savings card terms change frequently — verify current eligibility and limits on manufacturer websites
- Patient Assistance Programs may provide free medication for qualifying uninsured patients
Savings program terms change frequently. Verify current eligibility and pricing directly with manufacturers. This is not financial or medical advice.