A prominent retail chain is collaborating with Novo Nordisk to lower the prices of GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy. However, some consumers believe this controversial initiative may not work in favor of the famed retailer.
Recent research by RAND indicates that around 12 percent of Americans have acknowledged using drugs intended to help control blood sugar levels.
Although Ozempic is not FDA-approved as a weight loss treatment, many individuals use its common side effects, like reduced appetite and decreased food cravings, to their benefit.
Conversely, Wegovy is approved to aid in significant weight reduction and maintenance over time and is available through a doctor’s prescription.
According to ro, a one-month supply of Ozempic comes with a price tag of $997.58 without insurance. The platform also noted that Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, which contains the same active ingredient, semaglutide, is slightly more expensive at $1,349.02 monthly.
Reports have emerged that retail giant Costco plans to offer these GLP-1 injectables at significantly reduced prices. A company spokesperson explained that the partnership was initiated because they believe ‘everyone deserves’ access to such products, regardless of the cost.
The pens will be available for $499 for a four-week supply under the Costco Member Prescription Program.
Members can benefit from the Costco price reduction if they have a prescription and choose to pay out of pocket, without involving health insurance claims.
Moreover, manufacturers of these so-called ‘skinny-jabs’ have announced that Costco Executive Members and Costco Citibank Visa cardholders can receive an additional 2 percent discount, subject to terms.
Novo Nordisk expressed that its collaboration with Costco represents ‘another step forward’ in making Wegovy and Ozempic more accessible and affordable.
“By partnering with one of the country’s most trusted retailers, we are meeting people where they are and connecting them to real, FDA-approved medicines in our premium pen devices with our $499 self-pay offer,” Dave Moore, Executive Vice President of US Operations of Novo Nordisk Inc., told PEOPLE.
“Everyone deserves care that’s simple, reliable, and within reach — and we’re proud to lead the way in helping make that a reality.”
However, the new offering has received mixed reactions, with many taking to X, previously known as Twitter, to voice their opinions.
“That might backfire,” commented one user, accompanied by a picture of a bakery displaying doughnuts, pies, and other sugary items.
This suggests that users of Ozempic and Wegovy often report feeling fuller faster and having less inclination to consume sweet snacks, which are common side effects of these drugs.
Another user remarked, “Costco offering Ozempic at ‘half price’ to members after selling them a 24-pack of steak, box of 1000 frozen nuggets, 20kg mixed dry pasta and 5L tub of Nutella.”
A third commenter added: “Costco fatten them up & then sells them weight loss drugs.”
Some people defended the membership-based warehouse, with one stating, “Costco is GREAT.”
Another individual expressed optimism: “This could be a real turning point for so many people who’ve been priced out of these treatments. Costco’s approach might finally make them reachable.”
The Guardian has reported that Costco’s foray into the GLP-1 market could enhance accessibility and demand, especially as numerous medical plans still refuse coverage for these medications.
Inquiries have been made to Novo Nordisk and Costco representatives for more comments.