GLP-1 Cost Calculator
GLP-1 obesity therapy is expensive. Branded Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda typically run $1,000–$1,350 per month at the cash pharmacy counter. Compounded options from licensed 503A pharmacies land at roughly $200–$400 per month while FDA shortage status persists. Medicare Part D coverage is evolving — the 2026 IRA-negotiated cap places some formulary-covered products near $50 per month out-of-pocket. This calculator gives a ballpark total by drug, source, and months of therapy.
Reviewed by GetHealthyCalculators Editorial Team · Updated April 14, 2026
Quick Answer
Expect roughly $1,000–$1,350 per month for branded Wegovy, Zepbound, or Saxenda at cash pharmacy prices in 2026. Compounded alternatives run $200–$400 per month where legally available. Medicare-covered GLP-1s can be as low as $50 per month for eligible formularies.
These results are estimates based on general formulas and are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before making health decisions.
How the Formula Works
Select the GLP-1 drug (semaglutide, tirzepatide, or liraglutide).
Drug: semaglutide | tirzepatide | liraglutideSelect the pricing source (branded, compounded, Medicare-covered 2026).
Source: branded | compounded | medicare_2026Multiply monthly cost by months on therapy.
Total = Monthly x Months
Methodology & Sources
Reviewed and updated April 14, 2026 · Prepared by GetHealthyCalculators Editorial Team
Values are rounded consumer-facing list prices from Q1 2026 public reporting (GoodRx price trackers, manufacturer disclosures, CMS IRA documentation). This is not financial advice.
References
- GoodRx — Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Liraglutide price trackers (Q1 2026) · GoodRx
- CMS Inflation Reduction Act Part D Negotiation List · Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- KFF. GLP-1 affordability and Medicare coverage analysis (2024–2026) · KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation)
Limitations
- Pricing shifts quickly — check the manufacturer and pharmacy for current numbers.
- Compounded availability depends on FDA shortage status. Legal access may change if branded drugs leave the FDA shortage list.
- Medicare coverage for obesity-indication GLP-1s remains plan-dependent and may not apply to all beneficiaries.
- Specialty pharmacy networks, mail order, and manufacturer coupons can change actual out-of-pocket materially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is branded so expensive?
Is compounded GLP-1 legal?
What about Medicare?
Can I switch drugs to save money?
See the typical dosage schedule so you know what you are paying for each week
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