Mounjaro: A New Medication for Diabetes and Weight Loss

Mounjaro: A New Medication for Diabetes and Weight Loss
Mounjaro: A New Medication for Diabetes and Weight Loss

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription-only medication that was approved by the FDA in May 2022 to treat Type 2 diabetes. It is an injectable medication that works by stimulating two hormones, GIP and GLP-1, that help regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. Mounjaro has also shown promising results for weight loss, as it can reduce body weight by up to 15% in some patients. However, Mounjaro is not yet approved by the FDA for weight loss, and it may not be covered by insurance for this purpose.

How much does Mounjaro cost?

The cost of Mounjaro depends on several factors, such as your insurance coverage, your dosage, and the pharmacy you choose. Without insurance, the average monthly cost of Mounjaro is between $1,000 to $1,200, depending on the pharmacy¹. This can add up to over $12,000 annually if you have to pay for the medication entirely out of pocket.

If you have commercial insurance, you could pay as little as $25 for a 1-month supply of the medication, thanks to the Mounjaro Savings Card offered by the manufacturer, Eli Lilly². However, this program is only available for patients who are eligible and have Mounjaro coverage. You can check your eligibility and download the savings card here.

If you have Medicare or Medicaid, your coverage for Mounjaro may vary depending on your plan and your state. Medicare may cover Mounjaro for Type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss, as it is prohibited from covering anti-obesity medications³. Medicaid coverage also differs by state, so you will have to contact your state or territory’s Medicaid agency to find out if Mounjaro is covered¹.

How can I save money on Mounjaro?

If you are interested in taking Mounjaro, but are concerned about the cost, there are some ways you can save money on the medication. Here are some tips:

  • Compare prices at different pharmacies. You can use GoodRx to find the lowest prices for Mounjaro near you. You can also use their coupons and savings tips to lower your out-of-pocket costs.
  • Fill a 90-day supply instead of a 30-day supply. Some pharmacies may offer discounts for buying larger quantities of the medication at once. This can also save you time and hassle from refilling your prescription every month.
  • Ask your doctor about other options. Mounjaro is not the only medication that can help you manage your diabetes and weight. There are other medications that are similar to Mounjaro, such as Zepbound (semaglutide), that may be cheaper or more widely covered by insurance. You can also ask your doctor about lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, that can improve your health and reduce your need for medication.
  • Apply for patient assistance programs. If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may qualify for patient assistance programs that can provide free or low-cost Mounjaro. You can search for these programs on NeedyMeds or RxAssist. You can also contact Eli Lilly directly at 1-833-808-1234 to see if they have any assistance programs for Mounjaro.

Conclusion

Mounjaro is a new medication that can help you control your blood sugar and lose weight. However, it is also very expensive and may not be covered by your insurance. If you are considering taking Mounjaro, you should talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks, and explore the different ways you can save money on the medication. Mounjaro may not be for everyone, but it could be a life-changing option for some people.

Source:
How Much Is Mounjaro With and Without Insurance? – GoodRx. https://www.goodrx.com/mounjaro/how-much-is-mounjaro-without-insurance

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