Novo Nordisk to Slash U.S. Prices of Wegovy, Ozempic by Up to 50%

Novo Nordisk plans to significantly reduce the list prices of its popular obesity and diabetes medications – Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus – in the United States, aiming to improve accessibility for patients with insurance, particularly those with high-deductible plans or coinsurance.

Price Cuts Effective in 2027

Starting January 1, 2027, the list price for Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus will be $675 per month . Currently, Wegovy lists for around $1,350 per month, while Ozempic and Rybelsus are priced around $1,027 per month . This represents a price reduction of up to 50% for Wegovy and approximately 35% for Ozempic and Rybelsus.

Targeting Insured Patients

Novo Nordisk’s price cuts are specifically designed to benefit insured patients whose out-of-pocket costs are tied to list prices, such as those with high-deductible health plans or coinsurance . Jamey Millar, Novo Nordisk’s head of U.S. Operations, stated the company anticipates improved access and uptake in the commercial insurance market .

Competition with Eli Lilly

This move comes as Novo Nordisk faces increasing competition from Eli Lilly in the GLP-1 market , . Eli Lilly’s weight loss drug, Zepbound, and diabetes drug, Mounjaro, have gained market share. Both companies are actively working to capture the growing demand for obesity and diabetes medications and have been adjusting prices for cash-paying customers.

Impact on Self-Pay Prices

The list price change will not affect self-pay prices. Wegovy pills currently range from $149 to $299 per month, depending on dosage, while the injectable pen costs $349, with a discounted price of $199 available for latest patients for the first two months . The Ozempic injectable pen costs between $349 and $499 per month, with new self-pay patients paying $199 for the first two months .

Looking Ahead

Novo Nordisk’s decision to lower list prices reflects a broader strategy to enhance affordability and access to its medications in the evolving U.S. Healthcare landscape. The company aims to reach more of the over 100 million Americans living with obesity and the more than 35 million with type 2 diabetes .