Cost of Mounjaro Without Insurance Coverage
In the realm of diabetes treatments, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has gained popularity due to its potential to control blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. However, the cost of this medication without insurance can be steep, with a list price of approximately $1,079.77 per month [1].
As Mounjaro is still under patent protection until 2036, generic versions are not yet available, leading to high prices for the brand-name drug [1]. For commercially insured patients, some savings programs and coupons may help reduce the cost, but for uninsured individuals, the out-of-pocket expenses remain high [2][5].
Here's a breakdown of the current costs:
- Brand-name Mounjaro (tirzepatide): $900 to $1,400 per month (list price approx. $1,080) [2][3][5]
- Generic tirzepatide: Not available yet [1]
Several savings programs can help those with commercial health insurance that does not cover Mounjaro. The Mounjaro Savings Card, for example, offers up to an 85% discount on the drug, potentially reducing the cost to as little as $25 per month for eligible individuals [5]. Other options include the Costco Member Prescription Program, Blink Health, and Optum Perks, all of which provide up to 80% off prescriptions, including Mounjaro [4].
For uninsured patients, options may be more limited. Walmart, for instance, charges around $1,100 for a one-month supply of Mounjaro pens [4]. Online providers like LifeMD also offer Mounjaro without insurance, but prices may vary.
It's worth noting that Mounjaro does not have FDA approval as a weight loss drug, and alternatives like Wegovy and Zepbound, which have received such approval, may be worth considering [6].
Research from 2022 suggests that Mounjaro is more effective than other diabetes treatments tested [7]. However, the high cost without insurance and the lack of generic alternatives make it a significant financial burden for many. As we approach 2036, when generic tirzepatide is expected to become available, we may see a decrease in the cost of this popular diabetes treatment.
[1] https://www.goodrx.com/tirzepatide [2] https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/mounjaro-cost [3] https://www.drugs.com/cost/tirzepatide [4] https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-much-does-mounjaro-cost-2302573 [5] https://www.mounjarosavings.com/ [6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/obesity-drug-approvals [7] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-35314-9
- Despite its potential in managing ulcerative colitis symptoms, Mounjaro hasn't been officially approved for this use, focusing primarily on diabetes treatments.
- Predictive science suggests that Mounjaro might be more effective than other colitis treatments currently available, but the high cost without health insurance could limit its accessibility.
- Health insurance providers and health-and-wellness savings programs have introduced various coupons and discounts, aiming to reduce the financial burden of Mounjaro for commercially insured patients.
- The finance industry has taken notice of the high cost of Mounjaro and the lack of generic alternatives, prompting research into the development of alternative predictive health solutions in the health-and-wellness sector.
- By 2036, when generic tirzepatide becomes available, the cost of Mounjaro could potentially decrease, making it a more affordable option for those struggling with diabetes and ulcerative colitis.
