Medicare Trial Offers GLP-1s for $50/Month

Starting July 2026, Medicare will offer a select group of beneficiaries access to popular GLP-1 medications for weight loss at a cost of $50 per month. This temporary trial program, called the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge, is scheduled to run until the end of 2027. It provides a significant cost reduction for drugs that are typically very expensive on the open market.

Eligibility for the GLP-1 Bridge program is restricted to individuals with Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Additionally, beneficiaries must meet certain weight requirements and specific health criteria at the commencement of GLP-1 treatment. Those with conditions like sleep apnea, diabetes, or fatty liver disease are not directly included in this trial, though their existing Medicare Part D plans might offer separate coverage for these medications based on their diagnoses.

The covered GLP-1 medications under this program include Eli Lilly's Foundayo oral tablets and Zepbound KwikPens, as well as Novo Nordisk's Wegovy injections and tablets, all FDA-approved for weight management. The $50 monthly payment does not count towards deductibles or out-of-pocket maximums, as Medicare is directly subsidizing the prescriptions. To participate, individuals must consult their healthcare provider, who will need to issue a prescription and complete a prior authorization form.