U.S. Pays 5 Times More for Weight Loss Drugs Than Other Nations

A recent analysis by KFF reveals significant disparities in drug prices for medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus between the United States and other wealthy nations. The list price for a one-month supply of Ozempic in the U.S. is $936, while no other country among those studied paid more than $200 for the same drug. The analysis suggests that the prevalence of obesity in the U.S., along with growing interest in weight loss medications, contributes to higher drug prices. Lawmakers seek to address this by reintroducing the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, which aims to expand Medicare coverage for weight loss services and medications like Wegovy. This initiative is backed by groups, including Novo Nordisk, who argue that obesity should be treated as a chronic illness deserving of coverage.