Novo Nordisk, Maker Of Ozempic And Wegovy, To Begin Selling Prescription Injectable Pens At Costco Pharmacies

Novo Nordisk, Maker Of Ozempic And Wegovy, To Begin Selling Prescription Injectable Pens At Costco Pharmacies

Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical giant behind popular weight-loss and diabetes drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, has announced a strategic partnership with Costco. Effective immediately, Costco members can purchase these GLP-1 medications at a discounted price through the retailer's Member Prescription Program. The four-week supply of injectable pens will be priced at $499 for customers not using insurance, a significant reduction from the usual out-of-pocket cost .

The partnership aims to expand access to these medications, which have gained substantial popularity due to their effectiveness in managing diabetes and promoting weight loss. According to a survey by KFF, one in eight American adults has used a GLP-1 medication by May 2024, highlighting the drugs' widespread use . Despite their surge in popularity, affordability remains a challenge, with more than half of users finding it difficult to afford these medications .

Novo Nordisk's decision to partner with Costco is driven by the retailer's widespread reach and trustworthiness. The discounted price of $499 for a four-week supply is available at 600 Costco pharmacies across the United States . This move is particularly significant given that insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications remains limited, with only 13 state Medicaid programs covering these drugs for obesity treatment as of August 2024 .

Dr. Rekha Kumar, an endocrinologist at Weill Cornell Medicine, praised the partnership, noting that it provides another accessible option for patients seeking these medications . However, Dr. Harlan Krumholz, a cardiologist and professor at Yale School of Medicine, expressed concern that the $499 price tag is still too high for many Americans, especially those in lower socioeconomic strata .

This partnership comes amidst a backdrop of soaring GLP-1 drug prices and increasing demand for cheaper, compounded versions. The move by Costco and Novo Nordisk aims to address these issues by providing a more affordable and accessible option for patients .