Cost is one of the biggest factors when choosing between Mounjaro and Ozempic. Here's a clear breakdown.
List Price Comparison
| Mounjaro | Ozempic | |
|---|---|---|
| List price (no insurance) | ~$1,060/month | ~$900-1,000/month |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
| Savings card available | Yes | Yes |
With Insurance
Your actual cost depends entirely on your insurance plan:
- Diabetes coverage: Both are often covered when prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Copays range from $0 to $150/month depending on your plan.
- Weight loss coverage: Many plans don't cover GLP-1 medications for weight loss alone. Some do — check your formulary.
- Prior authorization: Most plans require your doctor to prove you've tried other treatments first.
Savings Cards
Mounjaro (Eli Lilly):
- Eligible patients may pay as little as $25/month with the savings card
- Available for both commercial insurance and cash-paying patients
- Income restrictions may apply
Ozempic (Novo Nordisk):
- Savings card available for commercially insured patients
- Can reduce copay to as low as $25/month
- Not available for Medicare/Medicaid patients
Without Insurance
If you're paying out of pocket:
- Mounjaro: ~$1,060/month
- Ozempic: ~$900-1,000/month
Ozempic is slightly cheaper at list price, but the difference is not huge.
Compounded Options
Both semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are available through compounding pharmacies at lower prices — often $200-500/month.
Important notes:
- Only use reputable compounding pharmacies
- Ask your doctor for recommendations
- Read our guide on compounded GLP-1 medications for what to look out for
Which Is More Cost-Effective?
If you're comparing pure results per dollar:
- Mounjaro tends to produce more weight loss, so you may get more value per dollar spent
- Ozempic is slightly cheaper at list price and has been around longer
But the real answer depends on your insurance. The cheaper medication is the one your plan covers.
Tips to Lower Your Cost
- Check your insurance formulary first
- Apply for the manufacturer savings card
- Ask your doctor about compounded options
- Look into patient assistance programs
- Consider a 90-day supply (sometimes cheaper)
Bottom Line
Mounjaro costs slightly more at list price but may produce more weight loss. Ozempic is a bit cheaper and has a longer track record.
Your insurance will likely decide which one you can afford. Check your formulary and apply for savings cards before making a decision.
Work with your healthcare provider to determine which medication is right for you. Individual results and experiences vary.
