Novo Nordisk launches subscription-based program for Wegovy

Novo Nordisk has launched a subscription-based program for cash-paying patients who have been prescribed Wegovy (semaglutide). Beginning today, patients will be able to access the subscription through telehealth providers Ro, WeightWatchers and LifeMD. Hims & Hers and Sesame and other providers are expected to join the program, Novo Nordisk officials said.

“By providing predictable monthly pricing, multi-month options, and access through trusted telehealth providers, this program aims to support a more manageable way for people to stay on treatment and focus on achieving meaningful, sustainable weight loss outcomes,” Ed Cinca, senior vice president, Marketing & Patient Solutions at Novo Nordisk, said in a news release.

Novo Nordisk officials said patients can save up to $600 a year on the Wegovy pill and up to $1,200 a year on the injection with a 12-month subscription. The subscription prices are:

Wegovy pen

• 3-month subscription: $329/month
• 6-month subscription: $299/month
• 12‑month subscription: $249/month

Wegovy pill

• 3-month subscription: $289/month
• 6-month subscription: $269/month
• 12‑month subscription: $249/month

Currently, for cash-paying patients, oral Wegovy sells for $149 a month for the 1.5 mg and 4 mg tablets, but the 4 mg offer is only available until Aug., 31, 2026, then it is $199 per month. All doses of the Wegovy injection are available for $349 a month with a special offer of $199 for two months of 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg through June 30, 2026.

Related: Cost still the biggest barrier for GLP-1 access

The cost of GLP-1 therapies is still the biggest barrier to access for patients. In a recent survey, nearly seven in 10 Americans who have taken a GLP-1 medication for diabetes or weight loss continue to say the drug’s cost influenced their decision to start or continue treatment.

Navitus’ Pulse Survey found that only about half of commercial employers currently cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. Prior authorization requirements are standard practice, and tier placement — which directly affects patient copays — often varies depending on whether the indication is weight loss or diabetes, with diabetes patients generally receiving more favorable coverage terms.

Approximately, 68% of patients surveyed by Navitus said cost influenced their decision to start or continue with a GLP-1 medication. Additionally, 44% said their GLP-1 cost was higher than expected, and 24% said they pay more than $250 per prescription fill, including nearly 8% who pay $500 or more. Among respondents who stopped taking a GLP-1, cost was the reason cited most frequently, surpassing side effects and achieving a desired weight.