The quest for accessible weight loss solutions is getting easier thanks to the growing availability of GLP-1 medications, a class of drugs initially developed for diabetes treatment but proven effective in shedding pounds. While insurance coverage for these drugs remains inconsistent, significant strides have been made in making them more affordable through direct-to-consumer programs and partnerships with major retailers.
Previously confined primarily to online platforms, self-pay customers now can pick up GLP-1 medications directly from physical pharmacy locations like Walmart. LillyDirect, Eli Lilly’s platform for selling its weight loss drug Zepbound (tirzepatide), is the latest to offer this option. Patients opting for in-person pickup at a Walmart pharmacy will receive discounted vials of Zepbound instead of relying on home delivery.
Beyond Walmart, other big names like Sam’s Club, Costco, and CVS are also offering substantial discounts on GLP-1 medications (Ozempic and Wegovy) directly to consumers without insurance coverage or those facing prior authorization hurdles with their health plans. A month’s supply of these drugs typically goes for around $499 at these retailers, representing roughly half the pre-discount price tag of $1,000 or more per month.
This shift towards broader availability coincides with a notable decrease in the percentage of Americans classified as obese. According to recent Gallup polling data, obesity rates have dipped to 37 percent, down from a record high of 39.9 percent in 2022. This translates to approximately 7.6 million fewer individuals living with obesity across the country. While this drop might seem modest, it underscores the potential impact of these weight management tools on public health.
However, affordability remains a significant barrier for many patients, despite the discounted prices offered by retailers and online platforms. Even at $349 to $499 per month for a standard dose, a year’s supply of these medications still costs $6,000 — a considerable sum for most individuals.
Adding to this complexity, insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications for weight loss is becoming increasingly fragmented. Many health plans are tightening restrictions or even dropping coverage altogether for these drugs, forcing patients to shoulder the full cost themselves. Experts anticipate this trend of limited insurance coverage will intensify in 2026, further pushing patients towards self-pay options.
While discounted pricing and direct-to-consumer sales offer a glimmer of hope for greater access to GLP-1 medications, a sustained effort is needed to address affordability concerns and ensure equitable access for all who could benefit from these potentially life-changing treatments.
