Novo Nordisk has rolled out a new pricing option, allowing uninsured U.S. patients to purchase its diabetes treatment Ozempic at less than 50% of the original monthly cost.
Novo Nordisk has introduced a cash-pay option for Ozempic in the U.S.
Patients without insurance can access Ozempic for $499/month, less than half its list price of ~$1,350.
The offer applies to all three dose sizes and is available via Novo Nordisk’s official website, patient assistance program, direct online pharmacy, and through GoodRx.
GoodRx will also provide Ozempic and Wegovy at the same discounted rate across 70,000+ pharmacies nationwide.
The move responds to strong demand, gaps in insurance coverage, and political pressure to reduce drug costs.
Novo Nordisk aims to discourage use of unapproved compounded versions of semaglutide.
Eli Lilly has launched similar initiatives, as both companies compete in the rapidly growing GLP-1 market for diabetes and obesity treatments.
Novo Nordisk Slashes Out-of-Pocket Cost for Ozempic
Affordable Access for Patients Without Coverage
Novo Nordisk announced that uninsured U.S. patients can now obtain its diabetes therapy, Ozempic, at a significantly reduced rate of $499 per month. This price cut applies to all available dose sizes and offers a more accessible alternative to the medication’s standard list price of about $1,350.
Multiple Access Points for Patients
The lower cash-pay option can be accessed through Novo Nordisk’s website, its patient support program, or the newly launched direct-to-consumer online pharmacy, which conveniently ships Ozempic directly to patients’ homes. Additionally, GoodRx has partnered with Novo Nordisk to provide the same price point for Ozempic and its weight-loss counterpart Wegovy, making them widely available in over 70,000 pharmacies.
Addressing Coverage Gaps and Rising Demand
Millions of Americans struggle with limited insurance coverage for GLP-1 drugs, despite their popularity. GoodRx’s CEO emphasized that the partnership bridges this gap, ensuring more patients can access essential treatments.
Strategic Response to Political and Public Pressure
The price reduction follows heightened criticism over high drug costs. Political leaders, including President Donald Trump, have urged pharmaceutical firms to explore direct-to-consumer pricing models. This initiative not only expands affordability but also helps counter the growth of unregulated compounded alternatives that gained traction during supply shortages.
Competitive Landscape in the GLP-1 Market
Novo Nordisk’s move mirrors a similar approach by Eli Lilly, as both firms race to dominate the fast-growing GLP-1 sector. These treatments, which mimic gut hormones, play a critical role in managing blood sugar and suppressing appetite, making them valuable in both diabetes care and obesity management.
