Wegovy (semaglutide (injection))
FDA-approved for chronic weight management. Most commonly prescribed for weight loss. Manufactured by Novo Nordisk. FDA-approved status: weight-loss.
Peak weight loss
14.9%
Trial
STEP-1
Time to peak
68 wks
List price
$1,349/mo
Wegovy pricing across every channel
Manufacturer direct prices (LillyDirect, NovoCare) are usually cheapest. Updated April 2026.
| Drug | Insurance | Mfr direct | Telehealth (brand) | Telehealth (compd) | Cash retail | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy 14.9% weight loss | $63 cheapest | $499 | $449 | $249 | $1,349 | N/A |
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Wegovy cost in 2026
| Payment channel | Monthly | 12 months |
|---|---|---|
| Covered by insurance ($25–150 copay) | $63 | $756 |
| Manufacturer self-pay (LillyDirect / NovoCare) | $499 | $5,988 |
| Telehealth — brand name (Hims, Ro, Found) | $449 | $5,388 |
| Telehealth — compounded (limited post-FDA crackdown) | $249 | $2,988 |
| Cash retail (full list price) | $1,349 | $16,188 |
Dosing
Weekly subcutaneous injection. Dose escalates from 0.25 mg → 0.5 → 1.0 → 1.7 → 2.4 mg over 16+ weeks.
What to expect on Wegovy
For someone starting at 220 lbs on Wegovy for 12 months, the projection is:
Expected loss at 12 mo
28 lbs
Final weight
192 lbs
Cost / lb lost
$192
Modeled from STEP-1 phase 3 data. Adjust for your own weight on the full calculator.
✓ Pros
- FDA-approved specifically for weight loss
- Robust 14.9% average weight loss in STEP-1
- Wide telehealth and pharmacy availability
- Once-weekly injection (good adherence)
✗ Cons
- High list price ($1,349/mo without coverage)
- Insurance often denies for weight loss without comorbidity
- Mild-to-moderate GI side effects common during titration
- Lower efficacy than tirzepatide-based alternatives
Common side effects
Most-reported in STEP-1. Side effects are typically worst during dose escalation and improve over time.
NauseaDiarrheaConstipationVomitingHeadache
→ Full Wegovy side effects guide (timing, severity, when to call)Compare Wegovy to other GLP-1s
Medical disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only based on phase 3 clinical trial data and publicly listed prices. It is not medical advice. Real-world weight loss varies significantly. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any medication.