Is Ozempic hard to get covered by insurance?

Asked by: Lori Klocko  |  Last update: April 23, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (12 votes)

Official answer. Most commercial prescription plans cover some or all of the cost for Ozempic when used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it's not frequently covered for weight loss. The cost for Ozempic typically runs between $0 and $1029 per month.

Why is it so difficult to get Ozempic?

When videos about achieving rapid weight loss with Ozempic went viral on TikTok, the trend was also reported online and across other media. This triggered a huge demand for the product that the manufacturer was not prepared for, and it quickly developed into a worldwide shortage.

Does insurance cover weight loss injections?

While some providers may prescribe them off-label for other conditions like obesity, they usually aren't covered by insurance unless a person has a type 2 diabetes diagnosis.

Can you get Ozempic without being diabetic?

Experts still recommend that people avoid using Ozempic unless they have type 2 diabetes. Instead, talk to your health care provider about starting Wegovy for weight loss.

What is the generic for Ozempic?

Generic Semaglutide; Semaglutide is the generic form of popular brand names like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus. It is commonly used to manage type 2 diabetes. Since every individual's body responds differently, dosages vary from person to person.

Does insurance cover weight-loss drugs like Ozempic?

17 related questions found

How do I get Ozempic for $25 a month?

With the Ozempic® Savings Card, you may PAY AS LITTLE AS $25b for a 1-month, 2-month, or 3-month supply for up to 48 months. To receive offer, prescription must be for a 1-, 2-, or 3-month supply. Savings card offer applies to eligible commercially insured patients with coverage for Ozempic®.

What to say to a doctor to get Ozempic?

Tell your provider why you're interested in Ozempic — a good doctor won't judge you or your desire to use a weight loss medication. They'll likely ask about your medical history, go over your eligibility, and consider anything that might make you a bad candidate for Ozempic.

How much weight can you lose on Ozempic in 3 months?

After taking Ozempic® for three months

In a study of 175 people with a mean BMI of 41.3, the average weight loss in people who didn't have type 2 diabetes was 6.3% body weight after taking semaglutide for 12 weeks.

Did Kelly Clarkson take Ozempic?

The singer and daytime talk show host revealed she's used a weight-loss drug to help her lose weight — but it's not Ozempic.

How to get Ozempic when insurance denies?

Step by Step Guide: Ozempic insurance denial and how to appeal
  1. Step 1: Understand why your insurance denied Ozempic.
  2. Step 2: Gather Ozempic prior authorization evidence for your appeal.
  3. Step 3: Write your Ozempic appeal letter.
  4. Step 4: Submit your appeal.

Can you really get Wegovy for $25?

Yes, you can really get Wegovy for $25 if you meet certain criteria. Offered by Novo Nordisk, the Wegovy Savings Card awards qualified individuals the opportunity to get the medication for $25 per month (i.e. 28-day supply).

How to get Ozempic covered by insurance?

Prior authorization: If your doctor prefers that you receive Ozempic, they may need to complete a Prior Authorization form to be reviewed and approved by your insurance company. This form will help explain the medical reason why you need Ozempic over other options.

Why won't my doctor prescribe Ozempic?

If your primary care provider does not prescribe Ozempic, it may be worth researching reputable weight loss clinics that are more familiar with the weight loss drug and who will be able to provide ongoing supervision and guidance throughout the duration of the time you're taking weight loss medication.

Why are insurance companies denying Ozempic?

That said, when Ozempic is prescribed off-label for weight loss, it is often not covered by insurance. Why? Because the Affordable Care Act doesn't mandate that health insurers cover obesity or overweight medications or surgeries.

What is the biggest side effect of Ozempic?

Ozempic side effects are typically mild and short-term, resolving within a few days to weeks. Nausea is the most common side effect, which generally subsides as a person's body adjusts to the medication. In some instances, however, the side effects may last much longer, including after discontinuing the drug.

How did Kelly Clarkson lose so much weight?

Kelly Clarkson's weight loss was motivated by health concerns, including autoimmune and thyroid conditions. She combined diet changes, such as adopting a lectin-free diet, with regular exercise like walking. Clarkson's journey included using weight loss medication, although she emphasized a holistic approach.

How long does it take to lose 20 lbs on Ozempic?

Shedding pounds with Ozempic is a gradual process. While some users report feeling the appetite-suppressing effects as early as the first day, noticeable weight loss typically takes a few weeks to kick in. On average, clinical trials have shown that significant weight loss can occur over 30 to 68 weeks of treatment.

Does Blue Cross Blue Shield cover Ozempic?

BCBS typically requires prior authorization for Ozempic. You can check if your specific plan does by reviewing your plan's drug formulary. If you see a “PA” next to Ozempic, that means prior authorization is required. It's worth noting that submitting the paperwork doesn't always result in approval.

What can qualify me for Ozempic?

Candidates for Ozempic treatment for weight loss include individuals who have a BMI of 30 or higher and those with a BMI of 27 or higher as well as at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is not the right weight loss approach for everyone.

What is the strongest weight loss prescription pill?

Some of the strongest weight loss pills available today include: Naltrexone/bupropion (brand name Contrave) Phentermine/topiramate (brand name Qsymia) Orlistat (brand names Xenical, Alli)

Why is Mounjaro better than Ozempic?

While they are approved for diabetes, both Mounjaro and Ozempic also make people lose weight by helping you to feel full longer. Ozempic acts like a hormone your body makes. Mounjaro works similarly, but it acts like two hormones instead of one. Compared to Ozempic, Mounjaro might work even better for weight loss.

Is there an OTC version of Ozempic?

Are there any over-the-counter (OTC) Ozempic alternatives? Medications that work like Ozempic are only available with a prescription. But you may see OTC supplements, such as berberine, being promoted as natural Ozempic alternatives for weight loss.

How to get affordable semaglutide?

How to Reduce the Cost of Semaglutide
  1. Look for coupons and discount cards.
  2. Get 90-day prescriptions (they can be cheaper than buying a 30-day supply)
  3. Consider compounded semaglutide.
  4. Apply for manufacturer savings programs.