In a move that’s shaking up the weight-loss drug market, Novo Nordisk announced on April 29 that its blockbuster medication Wegovy will soon be sold through telehealth platforms Hims, Ro, and LifeMD for $499 a month—a price that undercuts its standard cost by a wide margin. The deal, unveiled with a splash on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” marks a bold pivot for the Danish drugmaker as it aims to get its sought-after GLP-1 drug into more hands, especially for those without insurance to foot the bill.
Wegovy, a semaglutide-based injection approved by the FDA for chronic weight management, has been a game-changer since it hit pharmacies. It works by mimicking a hormone that slows digestion and tamps down appetite, helping users shed pounds when paired with diet and exercise. But at its full retail price—often north of $1,300 a month without coverage—it’s been out of reach for many. This new telehealth partnership changes the math. For $499, patients with a prescription can get the drug, plus virtual doctor visits to monitor progress, all through platforms built for convenience.
Hims, for instance, is rolling out a $100 monthly subscription that bundles Wegovy with telehealth check-ins. A doctor can write the script, track side effects, and tweak the plan, all without an in-person visit. Ro and LifeMD are following suit, each offering similar setups to streamline access. The catch? This deal is aimed squarely at patients whose insurance won’t cover Wegovy, a group that’s grown as demand for the drug has skyrocketed. Novo Nordisk says the telehealth route will also ease pressure on supply chains, which have struggled to keep up since Wegovy’s launch.
The drug itself isn’t without baggage. Common side effects include nausea and constipation, though rarer but serious risks like gallbladder issues or pancreatic problems have been reported. Still, its track record—backed by clinical trials showing significant weight loss—has made it a cornerstone of obesity treatment. The FDA’s green light for Wegovy in 2021 came after studies showed it could help patients lose 15% or more of their body weight, a result that’s kept it in high demand.
This telehealth push isn’t just about price. It’s a response to a shifting landscape. Compounded versions of semaglutide, often sold at a fraction of the cost, have flooded the market, raising safety concerns. By partnering with Hims, Ro, and LifeMD, Novo Nordisk is doubling down on the real deal, ensuring patients get the FDA-approved stuff while sidestepping risky knockoffs. The company’s also betting on telehealth’s reach to bring Wegovy to people who might never step foot in a doctor’s office.
The rollout is set to start soon, though exact dates remain under wraps. For now, the $499 price tag applies to a month’s supply, with telehealth platforms handling prescriptions and follow-ups. Patients need a valid prescription to qualify, and the deal’s limited to those paying out of pocket, not covered by insurance.