What's Happening?
Costco has begun selling Ozempic and Wegovy, two popular weight-loss injection drugs, at its pharmacies across the United States. These drugs, produced by Novo Nordisk, are available for $499 per month, matching the price on Novo Nordisk's direct-to-consumer website and at other retailers like CVS and Walmart. Ozempic is primarily used for managing Type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss and can reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in certain patients. Costco members can receive additional discounts, but a prescription is required to purchase these medications.
Why It's Important?
The availability of Ozempic and Wegovy at Costco represents a significant shift in the accessibility and affordability of weight-loss medications in the U.S. By offering these drugs at a lower price point, Costco is making them more accessible to a broader segment of the population, potentially impacting public health by providing more options for weight management and diabetes care. This move also reflects the growing demand for weight-loss solutions and the role of large retailers in shaping healthcare accessibility.
