Tirzepatide Tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound) works on two different hormone receptors: GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide)
But the policy shift is profound: from a market where GLP-1s were a luxury good ($1,000+ per month out of pocket) to a market where millions of seniors have them available at near-cost ($50 copay)
A: According to ro.co (pricing as of November 2025), costs include two components: Membership Fees (separate from medication): First month: $45 Subsequent months: $145/month recurring Medication Costs (separate from membership, varies): Zepbound vials (LillyDirect): $349-$499/month Wegovy pens (NovoCare): $499/month Zepbound pens: ~$1,050/month Ozempic: Varies by pharmacy Insurance copay: $25-$300+ (if approved
A primary example today is Exondys and Vyondys for Duchennes Muscular Dystrophy which sell $1bn/yr collectively despite limited efficacy
You can verify your Cigna weight loss coverage in Arizona by: (1) calling the member services number on the back of your insurance card, (2) logging into your Cigna member portal at mycigna.com, (3) using Klaritys benefits verification process before your first appointment, or (4) asking your employers HR department if you have employer-sponsored coverage
The shortage rule To understand why compounding pharmacists can make copies of semaglutide (the key ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) and tirzepatide (the key ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound), you have to understand the shortage rule
