Medicare GLP-1 Bridge: Certain Weight-Loss Medications for $50 a Month

 

If you have Medicare and have been considering a GLP-1 medication for weight management, a new Medicare program may help make these medications more affordable.

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge began July 1, 2026 and is scheduled to continue through December 31, 2027. For Medicare beneficiaries who qualify, certain GLP-1 medications are available for a $50 monthly cost.

What medications are covered?

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge currently includes:

• Foundayo® tablets
• Wegovy® injections or tablets
• Zepbound® KwikPen®

The single-dose Zepbound pen and Zepbound vials are not included in the program.

Who may qualify?

You must have Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage, either through a standalone Medicare drug plan or a Medicare health plan that includes drug coverage.

You generally must also:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Not already be eligible to receive a GLP-1 medication through your Medicare drug plan.
• Not have Type 2 diabetes, moderate-to-severe sleep apnea, or fatty liver disease. If you have one of these conditions, your existing Medicare drug plan may already cover a GLP-1 medication.
• Meet certain health and Body Mass Index (BMI) requirements.

For example, you may qualify if your BMI is 35 or higher, or if you have a lower qualifying BMI along with certain conditions such as chronic kidney disease, difficult-to-control high blood pressure, prediabetes, or a history of heart attack or stroke.

Because eligibility depends on your individual circumstances, your doctor can help determine whether you meet the requirements.

What does it cost?

If you qualify, your cost is $50 for a one-month supply, regardless of your income.

It is important to know that the $50 payment:

• Does not count toward your Medicare drug plan deductible.
• Does not count toward your annual Part D out-of-pocket limit.
• Is not eligible for the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan.

How do you get started?

Start by talking with your doctor about whether a GLP-1 medication is appropriate for you.

If you qualify, the basic process is:

1. Your doctor sends a prescription for an eligible medication to your pharmacy.
2. The pharmacy verifies your Medicare eligibility.
3. Your doctor submits the required information to Medicare for approval.
4. Medicare sends you a notice confirming coverage.
5. You pick up the medication and pay $50 for a one-month supply.

Once approved, you generally do not need a new approval for refills or dose changes as long as you remain on the same covered medication.

Learn More About the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge could make weight-management medications significantly more affordable for Medicare beneficiaries who meet the program requirements.

Read the official Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Fact Sheet

You can also visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for additional information.

Have Questions About Your Medicare Coverage?

Medicare rules and prescription drug coverage can be confusing. Our insurance professionals can help you understand your current Medicare coverage and your options.

Contact our agency to review your Medicare plan and determine what questions you should ask your doctor or prescription drug plan.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Eligibility for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge is determined under Medicare program rules. Talk with your doctor about whether a GLP-1 medication is appropriate for you.