Every GLP-1 Manufacturer Savings Program Explained

⚡ Key Takeaways

Novo Nordisk Programs (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus)

NovoCare Savings Card

For patients WITH commercial insurance coverage

MedicationYour CostMax Savings
Ozempic$25/monthUp to $100/fill
Wegovy$25/monthUp to $100/fill
Rybelsus$25/monthUp to $100/fill

Duration: Up to 48 months

NovoCare Self-Pay Program

For patients WITHOUT insurance coverage

MedicationMonthly CostNotes
Wegovy (injection) - intro$199/moFirst 2 fills (0.25-0.5mg)
Wegovy (injection) - maintenance$349/moOngoing (1mg-2.4mg)
Wegovy (oral) - lower doses$149/moNEW oral option
Wegovy (oral) - higher doses$299/mo9mg-25mg

NovoCare Eligibility

Eli Lilly Programs (Mounjaro, Zepbound)

Lilly Savings Card

For patients WITH commercial insurance coverage

MedicationYour CostLimits
Mounjaro (all doses)$25/monthMax $100/fill, $1,300/year
Zepbound (all doses)$25/monthMax $100/fill, $1,300/year

LillyDirect Self-Pay Program

For patients WITHOUT insurance — Zepbound vials

DoseMonthly CostRequirements
2.5mg vials$299/moStarter dose
5mg vials$399/moMust refill within 45 days
7.5mg-15mg vials$449/moMust refill within 45 days

Note: Vials require you to draw your own doses with syringes provided.

💡 Pro Tip: LillyDirect vials at $299-449/month are one of the best values for brand-name tirzepatide without insurance. The 45-day refill requirement ensures continuous treatment.

Patient Assistance Programs (Free Medication)

Both manufacturers offer programs for low-income patients who qualify:

Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program

MedicationIncome ThresholdWhat You Get
Ozempic≤200% Federal Poverty LevelFREE medication
Wegovy≤400% Federal Poverty LevelFREE medication

Apply at: novocare.com or call 1-866-310-7549

Lilly Cares Patient Assistance

MedicationIncome ThresholdDuration
MounjaroVariable (income-based)Up to 12 months
ZepboundNOT currently included

Apply at: lillycares.com or call 1-800-545-6962

⚠️ Important: Zepbound is NOT currently included in Lilly Cares patient assistance. Low-income patients may need to consider Mounjaro (if diabetic) or compounded alternatives.

Third-Party Assistance

PAN Foundation Obesity Assistance Fund

Independent nonprofit providing grants

The Patient Access Network Foundation offers grants up to $1,000 for qualifying patients with obesity. Funding availability varies—check their website for current status.

Apply at: panfoundation.org

How to Maximize Your Savings

Step 1: Check insurance first. Even if you think you're not covered, verify with your plan. Some cover GLP-1s but require prior authorization.

Step 2: If covered, use the savings card. Activate at the manufacturer's website and present it at the pharmacy alongside your insurance card.

Step 3: If not covered, appeal. 65% of appeals succeed. Don't give up after the first denial.

Step 4: If appeals fail, use self-pay programs. NovoCare ($349/mo) and LillyDirect vials ($299-449/mo) are your best brand-name options.

Step 5: If income-qualified, apply for PAP. Free medication is available for those who meet income thresholds.

Compare All Your Options

See manufacturer programs alongside telehealth providers.

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Disclaimer: Program details and eligibility requirements may change. Always verify current terms directly with manufacturers. This article is for informational purposes only.