In a move that's already stirring buzz among shoppers and patients alike, Costco has launched a significant discount on two blockbuster weight-loss drugs: Ozempic and Wegovy. Starting this week, the warehouse giant is offering a one-month supply—four injectable pens—for just $499 to members paying out of pocket, no insurance required. This partnership with manufacturer Novo Nordisk comes at a time when these semaglutide-based medications remain wildly popular, yet often frustratingly expensive or hard to obtain.
Indeed, the deal simplifies access in a big way. Costco members with a valid prescription can order online through the pharmacy site, picking up in-store or opting for home delivery at an extra fee. No coupons, no hassle—just show your membership card. However, it's worth noting that this pricing applies specifically to the full month's doses, and while it's a steep cut from the typical $900-plus out-of-pocket cost, it still represents a hefty expense for many households. Doctors have long pointed out how these drugs, approved for diabetes and obesity, can transform lives, but their high price tags have left millions sidelined.
Moreover, this isn't Costco's first foray into weight-loss meds. Back in early 2024, they teamed up with a telehealth service to provide prescriptions, though that program has since evolved. The current initiative directly tackles the insurance gap, where coverage for weight management uses is spotty at best. Shortages have plagued supply chains for years, but recent updates suggest stabilization, allowing retailers like Costco to step in with such promotions. Still, critics quietly wonder if these discounts truly democratize access or merely cater to those who can afford a membership fee upfront.
Indeed, as obesity rates climb and these GLP-1 drugs gain even more traction, Costco's offer could shift how Americans approach treatment. Yet for the uninsured or underinsured, the question lingers: is $499 a month a breakthrough, or just another barrier dressed up as a bargain?