Novo Nordisk’s FDA-approved semaglutide is now accessible to millions of older Americans through a new, affordable Medicare pathway.
The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program offers the weight loss medication for a flat $50 monthly copay nationwide. The initiative is designed to provide access for eligible Medicare beneficiaries through the end of 2027. Patients are directed to consult with their doctor, who can send a prescription to a local pharmacy. Once approved, refills do not require a new prior authorization for the same medication.
Jamey Millar, Executive Vice President of US Operations at Novo Nordisk, emphasized the cardiovascular significance of the moment, noting that semaglutide is the only weight loss medicine proven to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death in patients with known heart disease and obesity.
Joe Nadglowski, President and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition, hailed the program as a critical milestone, calling for it to serve as a catalyst for a permanent, comprehensive obesity care pathway in Medicare and private insurance.