Hy-Vee Launches 50% Off Deal on Weight Loss Medications

Iowa grocery store chain Hy-Vee has announced that it will offer weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy for a 50% discount for certain shoppers.

Who will be able to get the drugs for 50% off?

The Des Moines Register reports that Hy-Vee will offer the 50% discount to 'self-pay' customers, or those who do not have health insurance, or whose insurance plan doesn't cover the cost of weight loss medication. Hy-Vee announced that it will be working with telehealth and online pharmacy GoodRx to sell the popular weight loss drugs for 50% off per month, according to the Register.

How much will the medication cost with the discount?

Even with the discount, the Register reports that Ozempic and Wegovy will still cost customers $499 per month with a valid prescription. The full retail price for the medication is $1,000 per month, but patients who have health insurance usually have much lower co-pay amounts.

Will any other stores offer the same discount?

The Register reports that Costco, which has Iowa stores in Coralville, Ankeny, and West Des Moines, announced earlier this month that it would also be selling Ozempic and Wegovy for $499 per month in a partnership with Novo Nordisk.

In August, drug maker Ely Lilly started offering its weight loss drug Zepbound for $399 for a four-week supply, according to the Register. 

Why doesn't insurance cover the cost of weight loss medication?

The Register reports that most insurance companies will cover the cost of such medications when prescribed for diabetes or heart conditions. But more than half of employer insurance plans refuse to cover the meds if prescribed for obesity.