Medical Disclaimer: This article about Tirzepatide cost provides educational information only and does not offer medical advice. Compounding pharmacies do not receive FDA approval for their medications and may introduce different risks compared to FDA-approved drugs. Speak with a qualified healthcare provider before choosing any medication.
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.
Obesity is a widespread chronic condition that affects millions worldwide. It is associated with additional risks from heart disease to diabetes. And, if traditional weight loss methods don’t work for you, medications like Tirzepatide can make all the difference. Tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for weight loss, is gaining popularity, offering promising clinical trial results with an average weight loss of 20%.
If you’re considering Tirzepatide for weight loss, you might be asking yourself ‘How much does Tirzepatide cost?” Understanding the expenses involved can help you make more informed decisions about your healthcare options.
Tirzepatide for weight loss is FDA-approved, but only under the brand name Zepbound, which received approval in November 2023 for chronic weight management among adults with obesity or overweight with related health conditions. This article refers to tirzepatide in the context of Zepbound—while Mounjaro contains the same active molecule, its FDA approval is specifically for improving glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss.
How Much Does Tirzepatide Cost for Weight Loss?
Tirzepatide, like many prescription medications, comes with a price tag that can vary depending on several factors. Things like:
- Your location
- Insurance coverage
- Pharmacy discounts
- Brand Name
They can all influence the final cost of Tirzepatide.
As of now, Zepbound, the Tirzepatide for weight loss, typically costs around $1000 for a 28-day supply. This figure can fluctuate based on factors like dosage strength and any available discounts or rebates. While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s worth noting that the cost of Tirzepatide is slightly below that of its semaglutide counterpart, Wegovy.
Why is The Cost of Tirzepatide So High and How To Reduce Its Price?
Unfortunately, medication costs are determined by the manufacturers and are typically high in the U.S. But, it’s important to keep in mind that the $1000 price tag is for Tirzepatide without insurance.
Tirzepatide cost with insurance
The Tirzepatide cost with insurance will vary depending on the insurance provider. Different providers and plans may offer varying levels of coverage, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance options.
You can review your plan details to get a better understanding of your coverage and determine the out-of-pocket cost of Tirzepatide.
Geographic location
Believe it or not, the cost of Tirzepatide can vary depending on where you live. Different pharmacies and different regions or cities may offer a different Tirzepatide price.
So, it’s worth exploring options in your area to find the most competitive price if you’re paying the Tirzepatide cost without insurance.
3 ways to save money on Tirzepatide
While Mounjaro is covered by insurance for those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, Zapbound does not offer the same coverage. There are many insurance providers and plans that do not include weight loss options in their coverage.
If you’re stuck paying the cost of Tirzepatide without insurance, there are options for you to save money.
Use a Tirzepatide Coupon
Look for coupons to offset the Tirzepatide monthly cost. These may be offered by the manufacturer, the pharmacy, or your provider. Heally, for instance, offers competitive discounts and Tirzerpatide coupons for patients.
You also have the option of using a Tirzepatide savings card, sometimes called a coupon card. Eli Lilly, the Tirzepatide manufacturer, offers a Tirzepatide savings card that lowers the cost to $25 a month for those with commercial insurance coverage.
Tirzepatide Patient Assistance Program
You can also investigate whether the manufacturer offers any assistance programs that can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Eli Lilly offers this through the Lilly Cares Foundation.
Pharmacy Comparison
Compare prices at different pharmacies in your area to find the best deal. Some pharmacies may offer exclusive discounts or savings programs that can offset the Tirzepatide monthly cost.
Utilize Mail-Order Pharmacies
Some pharmacies send their prescriptions via mail-order. These pharmacies may offer more competitive pricing as well as convenient delivery options. While Heally is not a pharmacy, we can help you get your Tirzepatide prescription delivered right to your door.
Is there insurance for Tirzepatide?
Yes, insurance coverage for Tirzepatide for weight loss is available. However, it will depend on your insurance provider and your current plan. Some insurance plans may offer coverage for prescription weight loss medications like Tirzepatide, while others may not.
It’s important to review your insurance plan coverage to see if a Tirzepatide would be covered. You may still have out-of-pocket costs depending on your plan’s terms, though. Thankfully, you have options for additional cost savings to offset these as well.
Get exclusive Tirzepatide coupons with Heally
Tirzepatide offers significant benefits for those struggling to manage their weight. However, the cost of Tirzepatide is not one of those benefits.
Thankfully, there are savings options available to help make Tirzepatide more affordable. Heally offers exclusive discounts and Tirzepatide coupons, making it easier for individuals to access affordable healthcare from the comfort of their homes.
Don’t let cost be a barrier to achieving your weight loss goals. Explore virtual care options with Heally. Schedule your virtual consultation today!
Sources
GoodRx: Zepbound
Eli Lilly: How much should I expect to pay for Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)?
Zepbound: Ways to save—regardless of your insurance status
Lilly Cares Foundation: Lilly Cares® Foundation Patient Assistance Program
Important Medical Information and Disclaimers
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Tirzepatide is available as FDA‑approved prescription medications—Mounjaro® (for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound® (for chronic weight management and obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity). Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
INDIVIDUAL RESULTS VARY: Outcomes with tirzepatide vary significantly between individuals. Results may be influenced by treatment adherence, lifestyle modifications, individual metabolism, growth and development (in adolescents), underlying health conditions, and emotional wellbeing.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION:
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Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, and injection-site reactions.
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Serious side effects: have included pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, acute kidney injury, hypoglycemia, and severe allergic or injection-site reactions.
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Thyroid considerations: Animal studies demonstrated thyroid C‑cell tumors; the relevance to humans is unknown. Zepbound/Mounjaro is contraindicated for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
COMPOUNDED VERSIONS WARNING: The FDA has issued alerts regarding compounded tirzepatide, warning that these custom formulations may lack the safety, consistency, and efficacy of FDA-approved medications.
FDA ADVERSE EVENT REPORTING: You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription medications. Visit FDA MedWatch at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1‑800‑FDA‑1088.
