Wegovy Covered by Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re struggling with obesity, you may have heard of a new medication called Wegovy. This prescription medicine is intended to help adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher lose weight and maintain their weight loss. However, one of the biggest questions people have about Wegovy is whether it’s covered by insurance. In this article, we’ll explore that question and more.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide, a medication that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2021. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which means it works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 in your body. GLP-1 helps regulate your appetite and metabolism, which can help with weight loss.

Wegovy is administered by injection once a week. According to clinical trials, people who took Wegovy lost an average of 15% of their body weight over a 68-week period. In addition, people who took Wegovy were more likely to maintain their weight loss compared to people who took a placebo.

Is Wegovy Covered by Insurance?

Wegovy is a relatively new medication, so insurance coverage may vary. However, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting your Wegovy prescription covered by insurance:

1. Check with your insurance provider.

The first step in determining whether Wegovy is covered by your insurance is to check with your provider. You can call the customer service number on your insurance card or log into your insurance provider’s online portal to see if Wegovy is covered under your plan.

2. Get a prescription from your doctor.

In order to get Wegovy, you’ll need a prescription from your doctor. Your doctor can also help you determine if Wegovy is the best weight loss medication for you.

3. Provide documentation.

Your insurance company may require documentation of your weight loss efforts before they will cover Wegovy. This can include documentation of your diet and exercise regimen, as well as any other weight loss medications you’ve tried in the past.

How Much Does Wegovy Cost?

Without insurance, Wegovy can be expensive. According to the manufacturer, the list price for a four-week supply of Wegovy is $1,099. However, the actual cost may be lower if you have insurance coverage.

If you’re concerned about the cost of Wegovy, there are a few things you can do:

1. Check with your insurance provider.

As mentioned earlier, your insurance provider may cover at least a portion of the cost of Wegovy. Call your provider or check your online portal to see how much you can expect to pay.

2. Look for discounts.

The manufacturer of Wegovy, Novo Nordisk, offers a savings card that can help reduce the cost of the medication. You can check the Wegovy website or ask your doctor for more information about the savings card.

FAQ About Wegovy

What are the side effects of Wegovy?

The most common side effects of Wegovy include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. However, these side effects tend to be mild and go away on their own over time. In rare cases, Wegovy can also cause more serious side effects like pancreatitis and kidney problems.

Is Wegovy safe?

Wegovy is approved by the FDA for use in adults with a BMI of 30 or higher. However, as with any medication, there are risks and potential side effects. Talk to your doctor about whether Wegovy is a safe option for you.

Can I take Wegovy if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. Wegovy should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as it can harm the fetus or newborn.

How long do I need to take Wegovy?

Your doctor will determine how long you should take Wegovy based on your individual weight loss goals and medical history. However, clinical trials show that people who take Wegovy for at least 68 weeks see the greatest weight loss benefits.

Will Wegovy cure my obesity?

No medication can “cure” obesity. However, Wegovy can help you lose weight and maintain your weight loss if taken as directed and in combination with a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Conclusion

Wegovy is a promising new weight loss medication that can help people with obesity lose weight and maintain their weight loss. While insurance coverage may vary, there are steps you can take to increase your chances of getting your Wegovy prescription covered. If you’re considering Wegovy, talk to your doctor to see if it’s the right weight loss medication for you.