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GLP-1 medications can help manage blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and support weight loss. However, they aren’t appropriate for everyone, and insurance coverage isn’t guaranteed.
Medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1) agonists continue to rise in popularity thanks to their ability to help manage blood sugar levels and reduce hunger and food intake, thus potentially supporting weight loss.
However, these medications, including Ozempic and Zepbound, aren’t for everyone and can be pretty expensive, especially if you have to pay for them out of pocket.
This article serves as your starting point for learning more about GLP-1 medications.
As with other medications, there are generic and brand names for GLP-1 medications. The table below lists the GLP-1 medications currently available in the United States, along with their approved use, list price, and dose frequency.
| Brand name (generic name) | List price* | Dose frequency | Approved use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | $1,349.02 | once weekly | • weight loss • heart attack and stroke risk |
| Ozempic (semaglutide) | $935.77 | once weekly | type 2 diabetes |
| Rybelsus (semaglutide | $935.77 | once daily (orally) | type 2 diabetes |
| Mounjaro (tirzepatide) | $1,069.08 | once weekly | type 2 diabetes |
| Zepbound (tirzepatide) | $1,060.00 | once weekly | weight loss |
| Saxenda (liraglutide) | $1,349.02 | once daily | weight loss |
| Victoza (liraglutide) | $543.51 or $815.27 (depending on dose) | once daily | type 2 diabetes |
| Trulicity (dulaglutide) | $977.42 | once weekly | type 2 diabetes |
| Byetta (exenatide) | $954 | twice daily | type 2 diabetes |
| Bydureon BCise (exenatide extended-release) | $855 | once weekly | type 2 diabetes |
*Note: The pricing information above is current as of publication, but it is subject to change. Also keep in mind that out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on insurance coverage.
Originally, GLP-1 agonists were used to treat type 2 diabetes. Over time, researchers noticed that GLP-1 agonists seemed to decrease appetite and promote weight loss. Thus, they began studying the use of GLP-1 agonists as weight loss medications.
Certain medications, like Wegovy, were specifically made and approved as weight loss drugs. Meanwhile, other GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic, are actually meant for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Doctors commonly prescribe these medications alongside other interventions, such as a low calorie diet and an exercise regimen, to promote weight management and reduce blood sugar levels.
Key takeaways
- GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP medications have been shown to be effective for managing blood sugar levels and reducing body weight when paired with other lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise.
- Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) may be more effective than injectable semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy). However, more research is needed.
- Weight regain is common after discontinuing GLP-1 medications.
- Due to promising research, Wegovy was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes in people with a higher risk of these events.
For instance, a
What’s more,
While more research is needed, some GLP-1 medications may be more effective than others when it comes to blood sugar and weight management in people with type 2 diabetes.
For example, a study from
However, keep in mind that many of these studies received funding from pharmaceutical companies, including the manufacturers of various GLP-1 drugs.
Research on GLP-1 medications for weight loss
While more long-term studies are needed, the research on the effectiveness of GLP-1 medications for weight loss is promising.
Semaglutide,
However, whether or not one medication is more effective for weight loss is still up for debate.
More recently, a
Because tirzepatide is both a
Still, it’s important to keep in mind that there are limitations to these studies, and more long-term research is needed before determining that one medication is more effective than another.
A note on GLP-1 agonists for weight loss
Though GLP-1 agonists can be beneficial for weight loss, it’s important to keep in mind that there is limited research on the long-term effects of these medications.
Additionally,
Therefore, it’s best to pair GLP-1 agonists with modifications to your diet and lifestyle. A healthcare professional, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, can also provide ongoing guidance and support to promote long-term weight loss.
GLP-1 drugs for heart health
Trulicity (dulaglutide) was approved in 2020 for individuals with type 2 diabetes, with or without a history of heart disease, to help reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events, like heart attacks.
More recently, in March 2024, Wegovy was
This approval followed promising results from novo Nordisk’s SELECT trial, which followed 17,604 adults with obesity or overweight and cardiovascular disease but no history of diabetes.
The trial found that after 5 years, Wegovy significantly reduced the risk of death from heart disease by 15% and reduced the risk of cardiovascular events — including nonfatal heart attacks and strokes — by 20%, compared to an inactive placebo.
GLP-1 agonists are currently approved for three conditions: type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
Keep in mind that these medications should be used alongside other lifestyle modifications, including changes to your diet and regular physical activity.
A doctor or other trusted healthcare professional can help determine whether a GLP-1 agonist may be beneficial for you, depending on your health concerns and goals.
Type 2 diabetes
Metformin — another antidiabetes medication — is considered the first line of treatment for diabetes. However, healthcare professionals
A GLP-1 agonist might also be recommended for people who are unable to meet their blood sugar goals using other medications or those with a HbA1c level at least 1.5% above their target.
Obesity
For weight loss, healthcare professionals may prescribe GLP-1 agonists for people with an initial BMI of 30 or higher or people who have a BMI of 27 or higher and at least one weight-related health condition, such as:
- type 2 diabetes
- prediabetes
- high blood pressure
- high cholesterol
- heart disease
- nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
- obstructive sleep apnea
- polycystic ovary syndrome
Typically, healthcare professionals only prescribe these medications after someone has tried other weight loss methods, such as diet and exercise, without success.
Heart disease
In
In March 2024, the FDA approved Wegovy to help reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from heart disease, regardless of whether an individual has type 2 diabetes or not.
In order to qualify, adults must have heart disease and either overweight or obesity. As with GLP-1 medications for weight loss, Wegovy for heart disease should be paired with a balanced reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Those who shouldn’t take GLP-1 agonists include people who:
- are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant
- have a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis
- are allergic or sensitive to any of the GLP-1 medications
- have multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndrome type 2
Weight loss medications are not recommended for people with past or active eating disorders.
Furthermore, it’s not recommended to take multiple GLP-1 agonists without consulting a healthcare professional, as it’s unclear how they may interact. Additionally, it’s important to discuss any other medications you may be taking with the prescribing healthcare professional.
An expert’s take on what to know before being prescribed a GLP-1
According to Janelle Duah, MD, assistant professor of medicine at Yale School of Medicine, there are a few factors to be aware of before starting a GLP-1 medication.
According to Duah, “Patients should be aware of side effects, how to manage the side effects, [and] when to consider stopping the medication if they have side effects. They should also make sure that there is good follow up and accountability with the provider with whom they are working and that there isn’t just a plan for weight loss but also for maintenance.”
Though GLP-1 agonists may support weight loss and help manage blood sugar levels, it’s important to be aware of the possible side effects:
Less common but more severe side effects include:
- allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
- acute pancreatitis
- acute cholelithiasis (gallstones)
- acute kidney injury
- diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes
- changes in heart rate
- suicidal behavior or ideation
- risk of thyroid C-cell tumors
Because of the risk of side effects, it’s important to check in regularly with a healthcare professional. Additionally, it’s important to discuss any concerns you have about potential side effects with your doctor or other healthcare professional to make sure the medication is right for you.
After a medical exam, a healthcare professional — such as a primary care doctor or bariatric physician — may provide a prescription for a GLP-1 agonist, depending on whether or not you meet the required criteria.
A doctor may consider the following factors:
- your medical history
- your health concerns
- what other medications you’re taking
They can also provide more information about insurance coverage and how much you can expect to pay out of pocket for your prescription.
If you’re interested in GLP-1 medications for weight loss, some telehealth services also offer prescriptions for GLP-1 agonists after a virtual consultation.
There’s no getting around it: GLP-1 medications aren’t cheap. In fact, depending on the medication and your insurance coverage, you could end up paying as much as $1,349 out of pocket each month.
While GLP-1 medications are eligible for insurance coverage, actual coverage depends on your specific insurance plan, the drug you’re being prescribed, and whether or not you meet eligibility requirements for that drug.
The best way to determine coverage is by contacting your health insurance company directly. However, some doctor offices and weight loss programs may navigate insurance questions for you.
Due to a combination of growing consumer interest and occasional supply chain issues, GLP-1 medications may be difficult to obtain. Semaglutide and tirzeptide, in particular, have been in the news because of frequent shortages.
If the drug you want (or have already been taking) isn’t available, your healthcare professional may recommend an alternative, which might be a different GLP-1 medication.
However, some healthcare professionals and pharmacies may offer compounded versions instead.
Compounding is the process of mixing, combining, and changing ingredients to create a new medication. Because of
GLP-1 agonists may not be appropriate or desired for everyone. Several other medications have been approved by the FDA for weight loss and the management of type 2 diabetes. It’s important to talk with your doctor about which medication is right for you.
Wegovy, Zepbound, and Saxenda are currently the only GLP-1 agonists approved as weight loss drugs.
GLP-1 agonists, such as Wegovy, have been shown to suppress appetite, which may lead to decreased food intake.
If deemed medically necessary, many GLP-1 medications are often covered by insurance. However, coverage can vary depending on your health insurance.
Some manufacturers, including Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, also offer savings cards to help make your copay more affordable.
The majority of GLP-1 medications are only approved for adults 18 years and older. However, Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide) are approved for weight loss in kids ages 12 years and older with obesity.
Several types of GLP-1 agonists are available. These medications help manage blood sugar levels and promote feelings of fullness to support weight loss.
Numerous studies have found that GLP-1 agonists can be effective for weight loss, blood sugar management, and heart health, especially when combined with diet and lifestyle changes.
However, many studies are funded by pharmaceutical companies, meaning there is room for potential bias and conflict of interest.
Plus, GLP-1 agonists aren’t for everyone and can result in undesirable side effects. Therefore, it’s important to discuss the pros and cons with a healthcare professional.