Costco has partnered with Novo Nordisk to offer its members a significant discount on two popular GLP-1 medications, Ozempic and Wegovy. Starting October 3, eligible Costco members can purchase a four-week supply of either medication for $499 through the Costco Member Prescription Program (CMPP) at over 600 U.S. pharmacy locations. This price is approximately half of the typical out-of-pocket cost, which can range from $1,000 to $1,350 (£780 to £1,050) per month without insurance.
To access this discounted price, members must present a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider and pay out-of-pocket, as the deal is not applicable through insurance plans. Additionally, Costco Executive Members and those holding a Costco Citibank Visa card are eligible for an additional 2% discount on their pharmacy purchases.
This partnership reflects a growing trend of large retail chains entering the healthcare space to provide more affordable access to high-demand medications. Costco’s decision comes amid a nationwide surge in interest in GLP-1 drugs, which have been hailed for their effectiveness in managing diabetes and promoting significant weight loss. For many consumers, even a partial reduction in price can make a crucial difference in accessibility, given the typically steep monthly costs of these medications.
Ozempic and Wegovy both contain the active ingredient semaglutide, which works by mimicking a gut hormone to regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is approved for weight management in individuals with obesity. These medications have gained popularity due to their effectiveness in promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health.
Experts note that while the price cut is substantial, it may still not be affordable for everyone. For context, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over 42% of American adults live with obesity, and the demand for GLP-1 medications continues to skyrocket. Many patients have expressed frustration over the high out-of-pocket costs, limited insurance coverage, and frequent supply shortages that have plagued the market since 2023.
Despite the discount, accessibility remains a concern for many individuals. Approximately one in five people lack insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications, and only 13 U.S. states included these drugs for obesity treatment in their public health plans in 2024. This leaves a significant portion of the population without affordable access to these treatments.
With the increasing demand for GLP-1 medications, the risk of counterfeit products has also risen. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued warnings about counterfeit Ozempic circulating in the drug supply. To ensure safety, consumers are advised to obtain these medications only through licensed pharmacies and with a valid prescription.
Costco’s partnership with Novo Nordisk marks a significant step toward making Ozempic and Wegovy more affordable for U.S. consumers. However, the requirement for a prescription and the exclusion of insurance coverage for many individuals highlight ongoing challenges in making these medications accessible to all who need them. As demand continues to grow, it is crucial for healthcare providers and policymakers to address these barriers to ensure equitable access to effective treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
