Costco Offers Major Discounts on Ozempic, Wegovy for Members
Costco has announced a partnership with Danish pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk to provide significant discounts on popular weight-loss medications, specifically Ozempic and Wegovy. Starting on October 3, 2023, members without insurance can purchase a four-week supply of these injectable drugs for $499 at over 600 Costco pharmacies across the United States.
This initiative aims to improve access to medications that many health plans do not cover. A month’s supply of Ozempic typically costs around $1,000, while Wegovy is priced at approximately $1,350, according to data from GoodRx. Members who hold an Executive Membership or a Costco Citibank Visa can receive an additional 2% discount off their prescriptions, subject to specific terms.
To take advantage of this offer, customers must present a valid prescription and enroll in the Costco Member Prescription Program. For those with insurance, the final price will depend on their individual health plans.
Understanding Ozempic and Wegovy
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain the active ingredient semaglutide, which mimics a hormone in the body that helps manage appetite and blood sugar levels. While Ozempic is FDA-approved for treating type 2 diabetes, Wegovy is specifically indicated for weight management in adults and adolescents aged 12 and older who are classified as obese. Research indicates that Wegovy may lead to greater weight loss due to its higher dosing.
Emerging studies also suggest that semaglutide could have additional health benefits, including potential roles in reducing substance abuse and aiding in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. Despite these benefits, many patients report experiencing side effects, with gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea being the most common.
Addressing Accessibility and Demand
The demand for GLP-1 medications has surged in recent years, resulting in occasional shortages. These shortages, coupled with high prices, have driven some consumers to seek counterfeit versions from unregulated sources, which poses significant risks. Both Novo Nordisk and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have warned against this practice, emphasizing the importance of obtaining authentic medications.
“We want to make sure we offer the real and authentic Wegovy and Ozempic where patients seek care,” stated Dave Moore, executive vice president of Novo Nordisk’s U.S. operations. “And we know that Costco is a trusted brand.”
Currently, Novo Nordisk also provides these medications at the same price through its direct-to-consumer website and at major retailers such as CVS and Walmart. Despite the reduced pricing, experts like Dr. Harlan Krumholz, a cardiologist and professor at Yale School of Medicine, argue that even the discounted rates may still be prohibitive for many individuals.
“The people who have the greatest need for these medications are precisely those in lower socioeconomic strata who have either poor insurance or no insurance,” Krumholz emphasized. He added that improving access to beneficial medications is crucial for the overall health of the nation.
The initiative to make GLP-1 medications more affordable comes at a critical time, as more than two in five American adults are classified as obese, with about one in five children and teenagers also affected. Carrying excess weight can lead to serious health issues, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
In light of these statistics, Costco’s collaboration with Novo Nordisk may provide much-needed relief for individuals seeking effective weight management solutions, despite the challenges that remain.
