What this calculator can and can't tell you
The numbers come from publicly disclosed list prices and published self-pay tiers from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, plus surveyed telehealth subscription pricing from major platforms. Insurance estimates are approximate ranges reflecting typical commercial-payer copays — actual numbers vary widely by plan, deductible, and prior-authorization status.
Retatrutide is investigational and not yet priced. Numbers shown for retatrutide are analyst-style projections based on Lilly's pricing patterns for Zepbound and the expected premium reflecting retatrutide's larger trial weight loss. They are not Lilly guidance.
Channels explained
- List price— the manufacturer's Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC), roughly equivalent to cash price at retail without any discount.
- Manufacturer self-pay — direct-to-consumer programs like LillyDirect and NovoCare. Tend to require cash purchase and specific dose presentations (e.g., Zepbound vials).
- Telehealth subscription — bundled monthly cost from telehealth platforms that include the clinical visit and pharmacy fulfillment. Typical range reflects different platform pricing.
- With commercial insurance — typical monthly copay range when coverage is in place. For obesity indications, coverage remains uneven across US commercial payers.
Sources of uncertainty
Pricing in this category is unusually volatile. Manufacturer programs change monthly. Telehealth platforms run promotions. Insurance formularies shift. We update underlying numbers quarterly and on material announcements (price changes, new self-pay tiers).
Use the calculator for ballpark planning. Confirm actual cost with the specific pharmacy, telehealth provider, or insurance plan you intend to use.