The 2026 GLP-1 Affordability Gap
The same molecules found in Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound cost over $1,000 a month at retail — yet compounded versions are available for under $130. This study quantifies the cost barrier keeping millions of Americans from GLP-1 treatment, and what they say they can actually afford.
Status — in field. Methodology is locked and the national survey (N ≥ 500 U.S. adults) is fielding in summer 2026, with full findings published Q3 2026. The verified pricing analysis below is live now; survey results will be added on publication. Media inquiries: press@trytrimi.com.
The gap, in dollars
Monthly cash price, without insurance. Brand figures are manufacturer list prices; Trimi figures are the published annual-plan price. The active ingredient is the same — the price is not.
Sources: manufacturer list prices (Novo Nordisk, Eli Lilly); Trimi published pricing. Retail cash price without insurance or manufacturer coupons.
What this study measures
A nationally representative survey of U.S. adults, designed to put hard numbers on the access problem the pricing above creates:
- Out-of-pocket cost as a barrier to starting or continuing a GLP-1
- Insurance-denial and coverage-exclusion rates for weight-loss GLP-1s
- The monthly price threshold patients say they can actually afford
- Awareness of compounded vs. brand-name options
- Reasons people stop therapy (and how often cost is the driver)
- Willingness to use telehealth to access treatment
Findings
Published on completion of fielding (Q3 2026). Preview of the data points the study will report:
Methodology
- Sample: N ≥ 500 U.S. adults via an online research panel, weighted to U.S. census demographics (age, gender, region).
- Field dates: summer 2026 (exact dates published with results).
- Instrument: pre-registered question set; margin of error reported on publication.
- Conduct: independent survey panel; analysis reviewed before release. No patient health information is used in this study.
About this research
Trimi Health is a U.S. telehealth provider offering compounded semaglutide ($99/month) and tirzepatide ($125/month) on annual plans, prescribed by U.S.-licensed providers through the Arora Health 50-state network and dispensed by state-licensed 503A community sterile compounding pharmacies (VialsRx, Texas State Board of Pharmacy license #35264, and GreenwichRx). Trimi holds LegitScript Healthcare Merchant certification.
Research reviewed by Dr. Sean Arora, MD, Medical Director. For data, interviews, or the methodology appendix, contact press@trytrimi.com.
Sources
- Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly published U.S. list prices (Wegovy, Ozempic, Zepbound, Mounjaro).
- KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation) analyses of GLP-1 coverage and out-of-pocket cost.
- Trimi Health published pricing (annual plans).
Disclaimer: This page presents cost and access research for informational purposes and is not medical advice. Compounded medications are prepared per individual prescription and are not FDA-approved as drugs; the active ingredients are FDA-approved in the brand products (Wegovy/Ozempic, Zepbound/Mounjaro). Individual results and eligibility vary; consult a licensed provider. Pricing is current as of publication and subject to change.