Ozempic

by Novo Nordisk

Ozempic (semaglutide) can cost over $900/month without coverage. Learn how to afford Ozempic through manufacturer assistance programs, savings cards, and free programs for qualifying patients.

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication made by Novo Nordisk. It belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists and is FDA-approved to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, as well as to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events — such as heart attack or stroke — in adults with type 2 diabetes and established heart disease.

Without insurance, Ozempic can cost more than $900 per month, making it one of the most expensive diabetes medications on the market. But qualifying patients may be able to get Ozempic for free or at significantly reduced cost through patient assistance programs.

How to Afford Ozempic

If you're struggling to pay for Ozempic, you're not alone. Novo Nordisk offers several programs, and eligibility depends on your insurance status and income level:

  • Uninsured patients who meet income limits may qualify for the Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP), which provides Ozempic at no cost.
  • Commercially insured patients (employer or marketplace plans) can use the Ozempic Savings Card to reduce their out-of-pocket cost.
  • Medicare Part D patients have access to the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) to spread costs over the year. Note: as of 2026, Medicare Part D patients are no longer eligible for the manufacturer PAP.

ClariMeds handles the entire application process for you — at no cost to you. We identify which program you qualify for and submit everything on your behalf.

What Does Ozempic Treat?

Ozempic is prescribed for:

  • Type 2 diabetes — to lower blood sugar levels alongside diet and exercise
  • Cardiovascular risk reduction — for adults with type 2 diabetes who also have heart disease, to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death

Ozempic is not approved for type 1 diabetes or as a weight-loss drug (though a higher-dose version called Wegovy is approved for chronic weight management).

How Ozempic Works

Ozempic mimics a natural hormone called GLP-1 that is released after eating. It stimulates the pancreas to release insulin when blood sugar is high, slows the emptying of the stomach (helping you feel full longer), and signals the brain to reduce appetite. It's administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Patient assistance programs

Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP)

Manufacturer PAP
Eligibility
Uninsured patients who meet income requirements. As of 2026, Medicare Part D patients are no longer eligible.
Income limit
< $31,300/year (single) or < $42,300/year (married couple)
Insurance
Must be uninsured. Not available for Medicare Part D, Medicaid, or VA-covered patients.
How to apply
Apply through ClariMeds and we'll submit the paperwork on your behalf at no cost

Ozempic Savings Card

Copay Card
Eligibility
Commercially insured patients (employer or marketplace insurance)
Income limit
No income limit
Insurance
Must have commercial insurance. Not valid for Medicare, Medicaid, or government-funded plans.
How to apply
Apply through ClariMeds or sign up at ozempic.com/savings

Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P)

Government
Eligibility
Medicare Part D enrollees
Income limit
No income limit — helps spread out-of-pocket costs over the calendar year
Insurance
Must have Medicare Part D coverage
How to apply
Enroll through your Medicare Part D plan at open enrollment

Need help applying?

ClariMeds handles the entire application process for you — for free. See if you qualify in minutes.

See If You Qualify — Free