Wegovy at CVS: Availability, Retail Price, and What to Know

Wegovy is an FDA-approved medication that some patients explore as part of chronic weight management. This article explains what to know about Wegovy at CVS, including retail price, cost considerations, savings opportunities, and important factors to discuss with providers.

Wegovy at CVS: Availability, Retail Price, and What to Know

What Is Wegovy?

Wegovy is the brand name for semaglutide injection (2.4 mg), an FDA-approved prescription medication for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) who have at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, Wegovy works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, helping patients feel fuller faster and potentially consume fewer calories.

The medication is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection with a pre-filled pen device. Patients typically begin with a lower dose that gradually increases over 16-20 weeks to reach the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. Clinical trials have shown that, when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, Wegovy can help patients lose an average of 15% of their body weight over the course of a year.

Can You Get Wegovy Through CVS?

Yes, Wegovy is generally available through CVS pharmacies across the United States. As one of the largest pharmacy chains in the country, CVS typically stocks most FDA-approved medications, including Wegovy. However, actual availability may vary by location and can be affected by current supply issues that have impacted this medication nationwide.

To obtain Wegovy through CVS, patients must have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. The prescription can be sent electronically to a CVS pharmacy, called in by the healthcare provider, or presented in person. Many patients also use the CVS mobile app or website to manage their prescriptions, including setting up refill reminders for Wegovy.

For convenience, CVS offers multiple service options for Wegovy prescriptions:

  • In-store pickup at local CVS pharmacy locations

  • Drive-thru pharmacy service at equipped locations

  • Home delivery through CVS.com or the CVS Pharmacy app

Patients should be aware that due to periodic manufacturing constraints and high demand, there may sometimes be delays in filling Wegovy prescriptions. It’s advisable to check with your local CVS pharmacy about current availability before having your prescription sent there.

Wegovy Cost at CVS: How Much Does It Cost?

The retail price of Wegovy at CVS without insurance coverage is significant, reflecting the high cost of this specialized medication. Without any discounts or insurance coverage, patients can expect to pay approximately $1,300-$1,700 for a month’s supply (four weekly injections) of Wegovy at CVS pharmacies.

Several factors can influence the final cost of Wegovy at CVS:

  • Insurance coverage and specific plan benefits

  • Pharmacy discount programs or savings cards

  • Patient assistance programs offered by Novo Nordisk (the manufacturer)

  • Geographic location and local pricing variations

  • Dosage strength (starter doses vs. maintenance dose)


Wegovy Package Typical CVS Retail Price (Without Insurance) With Manufacturer Savings Card*
4-week supply (0.25mg starter dose) $1,300-$1,400 May reduce to $25-$500 depending on insurance
4-week supply (2.4mg maintenance dose) $1,500-$1,700 May reduce to $25-$500 depending on insurance

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Wegovy, offers a savings card program that may significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible commercially insured patients. This program can potentially lower the cost to as little as $25 per monthly fill for eligible patients, though restrictions apply. This savings card can typically be used at CVS pharmacies, though patients should verify acceptance before filling their prescription.

Insurance Coverage and CVS Caremark Considerations

Insurance coverage for Wegovy varies widely across different health plans. CVS Caremark, the pharmacy benefit manager affiliated with CVS Health, manages prescription drug benefits for many insurance plans. Whether Wegovy is covered under a plan using CVS Caremark depends on the specific plan’s formulary (list of covered medications).

Many insurance providers initially classify Wegovy as a “tier 3” or “non-preferred” medication, which typically results in higher copayments or coinsurance amounts. Some important considerations regarding insurance coverage through CVS Caremark include:

  • Prior authorization requirements: Most insurance plans require healthcare providers to submit documentation confirming medical necessity before approving coverage for Wegovy.

  • Step therapy protocols: Some plans may require patients to try other weight loss medications or interventions before approving Wegovy.

  • Quantity limits: Insurance may restrict how much Wegovy can be dispensed at once.

  • Coverage exclusions: Some plans explicitly exclude weight management medications from coverage.

Patients with CVS Caremark as their pharmacy benefit manager can check their specific coverage by:

  • Reviewing their plan’s formulary on the CVS Caremark website or app

  • Calling the customer service number on their insurance card

  • Consulting with a CVS pharmacist about coverage options

  • Using the CVS Caremark price checker tool to estimate out-of-pocket costs

For patients facing coverage challenges, CVS pharmacists can often suggest alternatives or help identify patient assistance programs that might reduce costs.

Conclusion

Wegovy is generally available at CVS pharmacies nationwide, though supply limitations may occasionally affect availability. The retail cost without insurance is substantial—typically $1,300-$1,700 for a month’s supply—but various options exist to potentially reduce this price, including manufacturer savings cards and insurance coverage. Patients with CVS Caremark prescription benefits should carefully review their plan’s coverage details and may need to complete prior authorization processes to access this medication at more affordable rates.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.