CVS Expands Access to Wegovy as Preferred Weight Loss Drug

CVS Health's pharmacy benefit manager, Caremark, has reached a significant agreement with Novo Nordisk to make the weight loss drug Wegovy the preferred GLP-1 medication for obesity on its largest formularies, effective July 1. This move will give tens of millions of Americans increased access to Wegovy at a lower net cost, while Eli Lilly’s competing drug Zepbound will lose its preferred status, likely making it more expensive for Caremark clients. The deal follows improved supply of both drugs and reflects Caremark's strategy to choose clinically similar products that offer the lowest net cost. CVS Caremark will also provide additional clinical support for weight management, and patients without insurance can purchase Wegovy for $499 out-of-pocket at CVS pharmacies. Novo Nordisk is additionally expanding access through its NovoCare Pharmacy and updated savings programs, as demand for GLP-1 drugs for weight loss continues to rise. This partnership marks a major shift in the obesity drug market and could influence coverage decisions for other insurers and pharmacy benefit managers.