Zepbound—Eli Lilly’s FDA-approved tirzepatide-based weight loss medication—has quickly become one of the most in-demand treatments for chronic weight management. But like many GLP-1/GIP medications, the cost can be high without insurance support. Fortunately, Eli Lilly offers a Zepbound Savings Card program that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients.
Active Ingredient: Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist — it activates GLP-1 receptors and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. The added GIP activity may enhance weight loss and blood sugar control compared to GLP-1–only drugs.
| Brand Name | Manufacturer | Route | FDA-Approved Use | FDA Approval Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro | Eli Lilly | Injectable (weekly) | Type 2 diabetes | 2022 |
| Zepbound | Eli Lilly | Injectable (weekly) | Chronic weight management | 2023 |
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to access and use discounts for Zepbound, who qualifies, and how to make sure the savings card works at the pharmacy.
What is Zepbound and Why Is It Prescribed?
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a prescription weight loss medication that works by activating two hormone receptors—GLP-1 and GIP—which help:
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Slow gastric emptying
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Improve insulin sensitivity
It is prescribed for adults who:
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Have obesity (BMI ≥ 30), or
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Have overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with a related condition such as hypertension, diabetes, or high cholesterol
Zepbound has demonstrated significant weight reduction in clinical trials, making it a powerful option for people seeking medical weight loss support.
Does Eli Lilly Offer a Discount for Zepbound?
Yes. Eli Lilly offers an official Zepbound Savings Card, also known as a:
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Zepbound discount
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Zepbound coupon
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Zepbound copay card
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Zepbound savings card
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Zepbound copay assistance program
This program can reduce eligible patients’ monthly costs dramatically. Savings may vary, but many qualify for low-cost or reduced-copay prescriptions, depending on insurance coverage.
Who Is Eligible for the Zepbound Discount?
Eligibility is based on several criteria set by Eli Lilly. In general, you may qualify if you meet the following:
You have commercial/private insurance
Patients with employer-sponsored or marketplace insurance may be eligible.
You are NOT eligible if you have:
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Any federal or state healthcare program
These programs are legally prohibited from using manufacturer copay cards.
You have a valid Zepbound prescription
A healthcare provider must prescribe Zepbound for an approved medical indication.
You reside in the United States
The savings program is only valid within the U.S.
How to Apply for the Zepbound Savings Program
You can sign up in just a few minutes. Here’s how:
1. Visit Eli Lilly’s official Zepbound savings page
Go to the Zepbound section of the Eli Lilly website and look for the Savings Card enrollment form.
2. Enter your personal and insurance information
You’ll need to provide:
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Name and date of birth
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Contact information
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Insurance details
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Prescribing provider information (optional)
3. Confirm eligibility
The system automatically checks if you meet the criteria for the Zepbound discount program.
4. Download or save your Zepbound Savings Card
You can save the card digitally or print it. Both formats work at pharmacies.
5. Share the card with your pharmacy
Provide the pharmacy with the card information so they can apply the discount to your prescription.
Where and How to Use the Eli Lilly Discount for Zepbound
Using the Zepbound discount card is simple:
1. Fill your prescription at a participating pharmacy
Most major U.S. pharmacies accept the savings card, including:
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CVS
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Walgreens
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Walmart
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Rite Aid
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Kroger
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Costco
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Independent pharmacies
2. Present your Zepbound Savings Card at checkout
Share the card information either physically or digitally.
3. The pharmacy processes the discount
The card applies automatically through the claims system, reducing your out-of-pocket cost based on your insurance.
4. Pay the adjusted copay
Your price will reflect the manufacturer discount.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting for Zepbound Discounts
Even with manufacturer cards, problems can occur. Here’s how to handle them:
1. The pharmacy says the savings card isn’t working
Ask the pharmacist to:
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Re-enter the card manually
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Check BIN, PCN, and Group numbers
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Reprocess the claim with your commercial insurance
2. Your insurance denies coverage
This is common with new weight loss medications. Options include:
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Asking your doctor to submit a prior authorization
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Checking formulary alternatives
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Confirming medical necessity documentation
3. You recently switched insurance
You may need to re-enroll in the program with updated insurance information.
4. You are using a telehealth provider
Ensure your pharmacy has the correct prescriber information on file.
5. You have Medicare or Medicaid
Unfortunately, federal regulations prevent manufacturer copay cards from applying. See the next section for alternative options.
Additional Financial Assistance for Zepbound Treatment
If you are not eligible for the Eli Lilly Zepbound savings program, you still have options:
1. Manufacturer financial assistance programs
Eli Lilly occasionally offers expanded support. Check their website for updates.
2. Nonprofit patient assistance foundations
Organizations like:
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NeedyMeds
may provide cost assistance for qualifying patients.
3. Pharmacy discount programs
Some pharmacies offer internal discounts or price matching.
4. Telehealth weight loss programs
With Heally, patients receive $100 off first month’s medication and can get Tirzepatide for as low as $299 in later months. Patients with insurance or Zepbound Savings Card may pay even lower prices.
Estimated Monthly Cost Scenarios for Zepbound
| Scenario | Approximate Monthly Cost* | Notes / Source |
|---|---|---|
| Without insurance | $1,000–$1,200+ | Typical retail cash price for a 1-month supply (based on Zepbound list price of ~$1,059–$1,079). |
| With insurance | $25–$150+ | Cost varies by plan, deductible, and prior authorization. Many insured patients pay between $25–$150/month once coverage is approved. |
| With Zepbound Savings Card | As low as $25/month | Eligible patients with commercial insurance may pay as little as $25 for a 1–3 month prescription. Not valid for government-insured patients. |
| With Heally | $100 off first month | Heally offers $100 off your first month plus access to ongoing coupons and discount programs to help reduce Zepbound treatment costs. |
*Costs are estimated averages for one month of medication; actual prices may vary by pharmacy, dosage, and region.
5. Employer wellness benefits
Some employers reimburse weight loss medications or offer coverage through wellness stipends.
Heally can connect you with a licensed provider to guide you through Zepbound treatment and savings options. Schedule a free consultation to get started.
Sources
- The New England Journal of Medicine: Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity
- Zepbound Eli Lilly: Zepbound Coverage and Savings for Patients
- Zepbound Eli Lilly: Zepbound Coverage and Savings for Healthcare Providers
- Eli Lilly Investors: Lilly’s tirzepatide delivered up to 22.5% weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight in SURMOUNT-1
- Eli Lilly Investors: Tirzepatide demonstrated significant and superior weight loss compared to placebo in two pivotal studies
- FDA Label: MOUNJARO (Tirzepatide Injection) Medication Guide
- FDA Label: ZEPBOUND (Tirzepatide Injection) Medication Guide
Important Medical Information and Disclaimers
Important Current Status Update: On March 19, 2025, the FDA ended enforcement discretion for compounded tirzepatide. Pharmacies may no longer legally compound tirzepatide in most cases, since the FDA confirmed that no drug shortage exists. Patients should use FDA-approved medications like Mounjaro® and Zepbound® unless a provider confirms a medical necessity. Compounding pharmacies do not receive FDA approval for their medications and may introduce different risks compared to FDA-approved drugs.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Tirzepatide is available through two FDA-approved prescription medications: Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) injection is approved for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and Zepbound® (tirzepatide) injection is approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related medical problems. While both medications contain the same active ingredient (tirzepatide), they are approved for different therapeutic indications and may have different dosing regimens. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS VARY
Results from tirzepatide treatment vary significantly between individuals. Clinical trial results may not reflect real-world outcomes for all patients. Factors that may influence treatment results include adherence to prescribed dosing, implementation of lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise), individual metabolic responses, underlying health conditions, concurrent medications, and genetic factors. No treatment outcome can be guaranteed.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Common Side Effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, stomach pain, heartburn, belching, gas, and injection site reactions. These effects are often temporary and may decrease over time.
Always discuss your complete medical history, current medications, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are essential during treatment.
FDA ADVERSE EVENT REPORTING: You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Healthcare providers and patients can also report adverse events to the manufacturer.
