Novo Nordisk, the pharmaceutical giant behind Ozempic and Wegshas announced a new limited-time initiative offering lower prices for the GLP-1 medications for customers paying out of pocket.

New patients with prescriptions can get the first two doses of Wegovy and Ozempic for $199 each beginning November 17; existing patients will see their medication costs lowered from $499 to $349 per month. The discount applies to the two lowest doses of the medication, and is set to expire at the end of March.

Semaglutide — known by brand names Ozempic and Wegovy — is a type of GLP-1 medication (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) that works in the brain to impact satiety. Ozempic is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight-loss management.

The popularity of weekly injections for weight loss has soared. As of 2024, 1 in 8 adults in the United States has taken a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic. However, the demand has also led to a rise in counterfeit versions of the medication — many of which have sickened people who take them.

“As pioneers of the GLP-1 class, we are committed to ensuring that real, FDA-approved Wegovy and Ozempic are affordable and accessible to those who need them,” Dave Moore, Executive Vice President, US Operations of Novo Nordisk Inc, said in a press release from the pharmaceutical company.

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The self-pay discount can be accessed through partners that work with Novo Nordisk (CostcoGoodRx, WeightWatchers, Ro, LifeMD, and eMed), or via NovoCare Pharmacy, which partners with CVS for home delivery or pickup of the medication.

Patients can also register on wegovy.com or ozempic.com for the savings, which will be honored at than 70,000 pharmacies, the press release said.

Patients will still need a prescription to obtain Ozempic and Wegovy.

The news comes on the heels of President Donald Trump announcing a deal with companies Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, whereby GLP-1 injections would be available for $350 a month for those who buy directly from manufacturers through TrumpRx. Trump said people on Medicare and Medicaid would pay $245 a month, starting around the middle of 2026. Under the terms of the deal, the lowest price − $149 per month − will apply to oral versions of these weight-loss drugs. But, the pills are not yet available.

The current price of the medications ranges from $1,000 to $1,350; consumers pay various amounts depending on their insurance.

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“The U.S. healthcare system is complex, with different types of insurance and various ways for patients to obtain their medicines. Our new savings offers provide immediate impact, bringing forward greater cost savings for those who are currently without coverage or choose to self-pay,” Moore said in Novo Nordisk’s release.

“It is part of a larger strategy to expand access that includes building relationships with telehealth providers and major retailers, expanding coverage, and working with the Administration to lower costs for people living with chronic diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes.”