But how much does it cost? Is it covered by insurance? And can patients save on it? Here’s what you need to know about accessing Zepbound in 2025.
What Is Zepbound?
Zepbound is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2023 to help adults manage chronic weight issues. It contains tirzepatide, the same active ingredient found in Mounjaro, a diabetes treatment. Zepbound works by activating two key hormone receptors in the body—GLP-1 and GIP—that help regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. By slowing digestion and increasing feelings of fullness, it supports reduced calorie intake and sustainable weight loss when combined with diet and exercise.
Zepbound is generally prescribed for:
- Adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or higher)
- Adults who are overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol
The medication is delivered through a once-weekly injection, available in different dosage strengths that can be gradually increased under medical supervision. Because it targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, research suggests Zepbound may offer stronger weight-loss results compared to older GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (Wegovy).
How Much Does Zepbound Cost?
The list price of Zepbound is $1,059.87 per month, regardless of the dose. This is the wholesale acquisition cost (WAC), meaning it’s the price set by the manufacturer before any discounts, rebates, or insurance coverage are applied.
It’s worth noting that most patients do not pay the list price out of pocket. The actual cost depends heavily on your insurance coverage or eligibility for savings programs.
💡 Zepbound comes in six dose options (2.5 mg to 15 mg), but the price remains the same across doses.
Is Zepbound Covered by Insurance?
Coverage is improving but still varies. As of mid-2025:
- Medicare and Medicaid typically do not cover weight-loss medications, including Zepbound,
- Coverage through your Medicaid insurance plan depends on which state you live in. Some Medicaid plans may only cover Zepbound for the obstructive sleep apnea indication, and not for the chronic weight management indication.
- Most Medicare insurance plans do not cover obesity management medications. However, some Medigap and Medicare Advantage insurance plans do cover these types of medications for retirees and those who register for these medications.
- Private insurers are starting to cover Zepbound, especially employer-sponsored plans that include weight management benefits. However, many still require prior authorization and documentation of medical necessity.
- Some ACA marketplace plans and state Medicaid programs may begin to offer limited coverage as pressure mounts to address obesity-related costs.
You should check directly with your insurer or pharmacy benefits manager to confirm if your plan includes coverage for anti-obesity medications (AOMs) like Zepbound.
Zepbound Savings Programs
If you’re paying out of pocket or have commercial insurance, Eli Lilly offers a savings card for Zepbound:
- Commercially insured patients may pay as little as $25 per month.
- Uninsured patients currently don’t qualify for the copay card, but may explore patient assistance programs via foundations or third-party services.
You can apply for the Zepbound Savings Card directly on the official website.
Where Can You Get Zepbound?
Zepbound is available at most major pharmacies in the U.S., including CVS, Costco, Walgreens, Walmart, Rite Aid, and independent pharmacies. However, due to high demand, some locations may experience temporary supply shortages.
Online telehealth providers like Ro, Sesame, and PlushCare also offer consultations for Zepbound prescriptions, often bundled with virtual care and pharmacy delivery.
Final Thoughts
Zepbound shows strong promise in helping eligible individuals manage their weight, but cost and access remain significant hurdles for many. While savings programs and private insurance may reduce out-of-pocket expenses, lack of widespread coverage — especially among public insurance plans — continues to be a barrier.
If you’re considering Zepbound, speak with a healthcare provider about your eligibility, check your insurance plan’s drug formulary, and explore available savings options.
Sources & Further Reading
- Eli Lilly – Zepbound Savings Card
https://www.zepbound.lilly.com/savings-card - GoodRx – Zepbound Prices and Coupons
https://www.goodrx.com/zepbound - FDA Approval Press Release (Nov 2023)
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management - Drug Pricing Info via Drugs.com
https://www.drugs.com/price-guide/zepbound - KFF – Coverage of Obesity Treatments in Public & Private Insurance
https://www.kff.org/medicaid/issue-brief/coverage-of-obesity-treatment/
