How We Research Medication Costs
Where our pricing data comes from and how we keep it current.
Our Data Sources
We do not guess at prices. We pull from multiple real sources and cross-check them.
Manufacturer Pricing (MSRP)
We start with the official list price from each drug manufacturer (Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly). This is the baseline "without insurance" price.
Pharmacy Retail Data
We check actual retail prices at major pharmacy chains (CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Costco). Prices vary by location, so we sample multiple zip codes.
GoodRx and Coupon Data
GoodRx prices are often much lower than retail. We check GoodRx for each medication and dosage to show the lowest available cash price.
Insurance Formulary Databases
We review public insurance formulary data (Medicare Part D, major private insurers) to estimate typical copay ranges. We note when prior authorization is required.
Manufacturer Savings Programs
We track active savings cards and patient assistance programs directly from manufacturer websites. These can reduce costs to as low as $25/month for eligible patients.
How We Calculate "Average Cost"
When we say "Ozempic costs $900-$1,400/month," that number comes from a specific process:
- Get the MSRP — the official list price from the manufacturer.
- Check 5+ major pharmacy chains — record the cash price for the most common dosage.
- Check GoodRx — record the lowest available coupon price.
- Calculate the range — we report the lowest to highest price we found, not an average. This gives you the full picture.
- Check insurance copays — we look at Medicare and major private insurer formularies to estimate typical copay ranges.
What Our Data Cannot Tell You
Your actual cost may be different. Medication prices vary by:
- Your specific pharmacy and location
- Your insurance plan and tier placement
- Whether you qualify for manufacturer savings programs
- Current drug shortages or supply issues
- Whether you use a mail-order pharmacy
We try to give you the best available picture. But the only way to know your exact cost is to check with your own pharmacy and insurance.
How Often We Update
We review and update all cost data monthly. If a major price change happens (like a new savings program or a drug shortage), we update faster.
Last updated: April 6, 2026
Next scheduled review: May 6, 2026