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Prescriptions

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge: weight-loss drugs for $50 a month

Medicare's temporary program covering certain GLP-1 weight-loss drugs (Wegovy, Zepbound KwikPen, Foundayo) for a $50 monthly copay: who qualifies and how to get it.

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026 · How we check facts

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge is a temporary program, started July 1, 2026, that covers certain GLP-1 drugs for weight management for people with Medicare drug coverage.

Which drugs

  • Wegovy (injection or tablet)
  • Zepbound (KwikPen only; single-dose vials and pens aren't covered)
  • Foundayo (tablet)

Who qualifies

You must be 18 or older, have Medicare drug coverage (a Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage), and have one of these:

  • A body mass index (BMI) of 35 or higher.
  • A BMI of 30 or higher with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or stage 3a or worse chronic kidney disease.
  • A BMI of 27 or higher with prediabetes, a past heart attack or stroke, or peripheral artery disease with symptoms.

You don't qualify if your Part D plan already covers a GLP-1 for you, or if you have type 2 diabetes, moderate to severe sleep apnea or fatty liver disease. In those cases, your Part D plan may cover a GLP-1 for that condition instead.

What it costs

A $50 copay at the pharmacy for a one-month supply. The copay doesn't count toward your Part D deductible or your yearly drug cost cap.

How to get it

  • Your provider sends a prescription for a covered drug to your pharmacy.
  • Your provider completes a prior authorization when asked, and certifies that you're using the drug along with a diet and exercise program.
  • Approvals are good through December 31, 2027, including refills and dose changes, unless you switch to a different GLP-1.

It's available in every state and U.S. territory. For the latest details, see Medicare.gov's GLP-1 Bridge page or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Common questions

Does Medicare cover Wegovy or Zepbound for weight loss?

Through the temporary Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, which started July 1, 2026, Medicare covers Wegovy, Zepbound KwikPen and Foundayo for weight management for people who qualify, for a $50 monthly copay.

Who qualifies for the GLP-1 Bridge?

Adults with Medicare drug coverage and a BMI of 35 or higher, a BMI of 30 or higher with certain heart, blood pressure or kidney conditions, or a BMI of 27 or higher with prediabetes, a past heart attack or stroke, or symptomatic peripheral artery disease.

Does the $50 copay count toward my drug cost cap?

No. The GLP-1 Bridge copay doesn't count toward your Part D deductible or yearly out-of-pocket limit.

Sources

General information, not advice about a specific plan.