GLP-1 Drug Costs Plummet Under White House Deal
GLP-1 Drug Price Changes & Medicare Coverage – At a Glance
- What: President Trump announced agreements with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to lower prices on GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, Mounjaro) and expand Medicare coverage.
- Where: United States
- When: Announced January 26, 2024; Medicare coverage begins mid-2026.
- Why it Matters: Substantially reduces out-of-pocket costs for GLP-1 drugs, making them more accessible. Marks the first time Medicare will cover GLP-1s for obesity.
- What’s Next: FDA decision expected soon on Orforglipron (Wegovy pill). Implementation of TrumpRx.gov portal. Rollout of medicare part D pilot program in mid-2026.
Price Reductions via TrumpRx.gov
| Medication | Original Monthly Price (approx.) | New Monthly Price (TrumpRx.gov) |
|---|---|---|
| ozempic (self-inject pen) | $1,000 | $350 |
| Wegovy (self-inject pen) | $1,350 | $350 |
| Zepbound (self-inject pen) | $1,086 | $346 |
| Orforglipron (Wegovy pill – *pending FDA approval*) | N/A | $346 |
| Orforglipron (initial dose – *pending FDA approval*) | N/A | $150 |
Medicare Coverage – Pilot Program (Starting Mid-2026)
- Coverage Scope: Approximately 10% of Medicare beneficiaries (6.6 million people).
- eligibility Criteria:
- BMI > 27 with prediabetes or heart disease
- BMI > 30 with uncontrolled high blood pressure,kidney disease,or heart failure
- BMI > 35 (severe obesity)