Semaglutide cost in 2026
Wegovy (obesity) / Ozempic (T2D) / Rybelsus (oral T2D). Chronic weight management, type 2 diabetes, CV risk reduction.
Semaglutide's three brand names (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) have different indications and pricing. Wegovy (obesity) lists ~$1,349/month; Ozempic (T2D) lists ~$968/month; Rybelsus (oral T2D) lists ~$968/month. Insurance coverage is better for T2D indications than for obesity.
Realistic cost by scenario
| Scenario | Estimated / month |
|---|---|
| Insurance covers Wegovy for obesity | $25–$75 copay |
| Insurance covers Ozempic for T2D | $25–$75 copay |
| NovoCare direct-to-patient (Wegovy, uninsured)Launched 2025; eligibility varies | $499 |
| Wegovy Savings Card + commercial insurance | $0 if covered, ~$650 if not covered |
| Uninsured cash pay at retail pharmacy (Wegovy) | ~$1,349 |
| Uninsured cash pay at retail pharmacy (Ozempic) | ~$968 |
Manufacturer savings programs
Eligibility: Uninsured or underinsured patients; income limits may apply
Best case: $499/mo cash pay direct from Novo Nordisk
Eligibility: Commercial insurance, not Medicare/Medicaid
Best case: As low as $0 if plan covers; ~$650 if not covered
Eligibility: Commercially insured T2D patient, not Medicare/Medicaid
Best case: As low as $25 if covered
Frequently asked
Why is Wegovy more expensive than Ozempic?
Different pricing strategies by Novo Nordisk: Wegovy (obesity indication, higher dose) lists at ~$1,349/mo; Ozempic (T2D, lower maximum dose) lists at ~$968/mo. Both are semaglutide; the label determines the price.
Can I get Wegovy through telehealth?
Yes — Hims, Ro, Henry Meds, and other telehealth providers can prescribe branded Wegovy for eligible patients. The cost through telehealth reflects the underlying drug cost plus the provider's consultation fee.
Is compounded semaglutide still available?
No. The FDA declared the semaglutide shortage resolved February 21, 2025. 503A compounding ended April 22, 2025; 503B by May 22, 2025. Compounded semaglutide is no longer broadly legal.
What about Rybelsus?
Rybelsus is oral semaglutide, approved for T2D only (not obesity). It requires specific dosing instructions (fasted state, small amount of water, wait 30 minutes). Cost is comparable to Ozempic, but bioavailability of oral semaglutide is low (~1%), so the clinical effect at the highest approved dose is roughly equivalent to Ozempic 0.5-1 mg injection.