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Zepbound (Tirzepatide) is an important new way to help with chronic weight management. However, since Zepbound’s list price is typically over $1,000/month, many patients may find that the price is too high to afford on their own. Fortunately, Eli Lilly has developed a number of discount programs to help patients have access to Zepbound. This article provides complete instructions on how to apply the discount programs effectively at your pharmacy, which qualify for the discounts, and tips for applying the discounts at your pharmacy.
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound, an injectable prescription medicine produced by Eli Lilly, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for chronic weight management in November 2023. Zepbound belongs to a class of medications called “dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists.”
How It Works
Zepbound mimics the physiological actions of two hormones – GIP and GLP-1 – that are naturally produced by the human body. Zepbound can help control blood glucose levels, delay gastric emptying (which may cause prolonged feelings of fullness), and signal the brain to decrease food craving and appetite.
Who It’s Prescribed For
It is specifically indicated for adults with:
- Obesity (a BMI of 30 kg/m^2 or greater).
- Overweight (a BMI of 27 kg/m^2 or greater) individuals who also have weight-related medical problems such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (specifically for moderate-to-severe cases in adults with obesity).
Does Eli Lilly Offer a Discount for Zepbound?
The Zepbound Savings Card is a manufacturer copay card designed to reduce the out-of-pocket costs for patients with commercial insurance.
Types of Discount Programs
- Savings Card (Insured): For those whose insurance covers Zepbound, costs can be as low as $25 up to a maximum of $150 per month or $1,950 per year
- Savings Card (Uninsured/Non-Covered): For those with commercial insurance that does not cover Zepbound, the card caps out-of-pocket costs at a maximum of $550–$650 per month (up to 13 fills per year).
- Self-Pay Journey Program: A newer option via LillyDirect where patients can purchase single-dose vials (rather than the auto-injector pens) for $299–$449 per month.
Who Can Qualify for Discounts
For a patient to qualify for the Lilly Savings Card, they must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of either the United States or Puerto Rico- Be at least eighteen (18) years old.
- Have a valid prescription.
There are some exclusions under federal law regarding government-funded programs. According to federal law, patients who are enrolled in a government-sponsored program (Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, & VA) will not be able to use their Lilly Savings Card to pay for their medication. However, patients can still use Lilly Direct to pay for their medications directly at the ‘Self-Pay’ pricing.
How to Apply for the Zepbound Discount
- Visit the Official Page: Go to the Zepbound Savings & Coverage website.
- Enter Details: Fill out the enrollment form with your name, contact info, and insurance provider.
- Confirm Eligibility: Answer a few questions to verify you have commercial insurance and are not on a government plan.
- Download the Card: Once approved, save the digital card to your phone (Apple Wallet/Google Pay) or print a PDF copy.
How and Where to Use the Discount
When you drop off or pick up your prescription, tell the technician you have a “Manufacturer Copay Card.”
Common Pharmacies Accepting the Card
Most major retail pharmacies accept the card, including:
- CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid.
- Walmart, Costco, and Kroger.
- LillyDirect (Eli Lilly’s official digital pharmacy).
What to Present at Checkout
You will need to show three things:
- Your Zepbound Savings Card (digital or printed).
- Your primary commercial insurance card.
- A valid photo ID.
What Happens When the Discount Is Applied
After the initial claim is submitted to your primary insurance, the next step would be to submit an additional claim with the Savings Card as your secondary form of coverage. This will cover part of any amount still owed after processing both claims. If the drug is covered by your insurance, you will pay approximately $25. On the other hand, if it is not covered by your insurance, the difference will be applied as a discount, bringing the total price to around $650.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your pharmacy says that the card “is not working,” please ask the pharmacist to do the following:
- Make sure the pharmacist is running it as a secondary payer.
- Make sure the pharmacist has entered the Group ID and Member ID correctly.
- Confirm whether or not they are in network with your Primary Insurance.
Insurance Denials or Coverage Delays
If your Insurance Provider requires a Prior Authorization (PA), then your Savings Card may not work until after a Prior Authorization has been approved or declined. Your best course of action will be to work with your physician to complete the necessary paperwork.
What to Do if Insurance Has Changed
Should you have a change of employment and/or insurer, you must go back to the Zepbound website and re-enroll to generate a new card with your new information on it.
Alternative Cost Assistance Options
Eli Lilly offers a program called the Lilly Cares Foundation for patients with serious financial difficulties who lack insurance. However, the foundation has strict criteria to meet eligibility.
Pharmacy-Based Discounts & Coupons
If you do not qualify for the Lilly card, consider using GoodRx or SingleCare. Generally, pharmacy discount cards will provide lower prices than those offered directly by the manufacturer, usually giving price savings of $900- $950 on cash payments.
Self-Pay/Direct Purchase Programs (LillyDirect)
LillyDirect is currently available as a self-pay source. Examples:
- The cost of the 2.5 mg vial is around $299/month.
- The cost of vials containing between 5 and 15 mg is approximately $399 – $449/month if they are refilled within 45 days.
Estimated Costs With and Without Discounts
| Coverage Type | Estimated Monthly Cost | Notes |
| Retail Cash Price (No Discount) | $1,050 – $1,200+ | The retail price of a 1-month supply is between approximately $1,059-$1,079 (based on Zepbound’s list price). |
| Insured (Covered) | $25 – $150 | Cost varies depending upon the individual patient’s insurance plan, deductible, and prior authorization. The average pay for an insured patient with approved coverage ranges between $25-$150 per month |
| Zepbound Savings Card | As low as $25 per month | 1-3 months prescriptions are available to eligible patients who have commercial health insurance for $25. Government-insured patients are not eligible to receive this benefit. |
| With TirzepatideMedics | $100 off first month | Tirzepatide Medics helps lower your Zepbound cost by offering a $100 first-month discount and providing access to ongoing coupons and discount programs for continued savings on your treatment. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can patients with Medicare use the discount?
No. Federal “Anti-Kickback” laws prohibit the use of manufacturer coupons with Medicare, Medicaid, or TRICARE. These patients should look into the LillyDirect Self-Pay vial options.
How often can the savings card be used?
It can be used up to 13 times per calendar year (typically once every 28 days).
Can the savings card be shared with pharmacies digitally or printed?
Yes, both formats are accepted. Most patients find it easiest to keep the card in their smartphone’s digital wallet for quick access.
Resources
https://zepbound.lilly.com/savings
https://zepbound.lilly.com/coverage-savings
https://zepbound.lilly.com/hcp/coverage-savings
https://www.lillydirect.lilly.com/medicines/zepbound
