President Trump’s proposed tariffs on Denmark could have costly consequences for Americans relying on GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy—and consumers are becoming increasingly concerned.
While it may seem strange that politics could impact the price of popular weight loss drugs, it is a definite possibility. Since Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda are all manufactured by Denmark-based pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, tariffs imposed on the country would theoretically increase the drugs’ already expensive cost in the U.S.
But don’t panic! At least not yet. While tariffs can increase the cost of imported goods, such is not necessarily always the case. Here’s everything you need to know.
Could Tariffs Actually Raise the Price of Ozempic?
They absolutely could, but it’s also not that simple.
“Tariffs can increase the cost of imported goods, including pharmaceuticals, and given the high demand for certain commercially available GLP-1 products, any added expense could contribute to price increases,” Dr. Rebecca Emch, PharmD, vice president of pharmacy and medical operations at telehealth service Eden, tells Parade. “However, pricing is also influenced by factors such as supply chain strategies and regulatory responses, so while an increase is possible, it’s not guaranteed.”
Michael Grosberg, vice president of product management at Model N, a revenue optimization provider to life sciences and high-tech manufacturers, says the same.
“In general, the price a patient pays at the pharmacy counter for a branded medication is much more dependent on factors like insurance coverages, co-pays and co-pay accumulators, formulary positions and PBM rebates—all unaffected directly by tariffs,” Grosberg explains, adding that in his opinion, the more pressing concern is regarding compounding pharmacies (more on those below).
“The more pressing concern lies with the supply chain for pharmaceutical ingredients and generic medications, particularly those manufactured in China,” he says. “This especially impacts compounding pharmacies, which offer cheaper alternatives to branded GLP-1 medications.”
What to Do If the Price of Ozempic Increases
And if the price of Ozempic does increase? That’s OK, too. Whether you’re currently taking a GLP-1 medication or simply hope to someday, there are plenty of ways to prepare and alternatives to try if necessary.
Try another GLP-1 medication
While Novo Nordisk manufactures and therefore owns Ozempic and Wegovy, there are several other GLP-1 medications you can try.
“Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide for weight loss) are GLP-1 and GIP agonists that are often considered alternatives to Ozempic and Wegovy,” Dr. Emch says. Neither will be impacted by tariffs either, as they’re manufactured by Indianapolis-based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Company. What’s more, Eli Lilly now offers a less-expensive version of Zepbound.
However, Dr. Luke Twelves, GMC, an international general practitioner and vice president of medicine at Lindus Health, strongly discourages patients from making these sorts of decisions on their own.
“I recommend speaking to your PCP or a specialist service for advice on the suitability of a GLP-1 and the options that are available,” Dr. Twelves tells Parade. “These can be highly effective drugs when used properly, but it’s essential to be well informed of all aspects of taking the drug and the alternative options for treatment.”
Check for patient assistance programs
Dr. Emch also suggests checking for patient assistance programs or savings cards offered by manufacturers to help offset costs of your medications.
One example is the Novo Nordisk Patient Assistance Program (PAP), which “provides medication at no cost to those who qualify,” according to their website. You can apply for assistance here.
Consider compounded alternatives—but proceed with caution
You could also consider compounded semaglutide, which is the generic form of Ozempic and Wegovy. (While different medications, they contain same active ingredient: semaglutide.)
“Compounding pharmacies are also able to make semaglutide as an essential ‘copy’ during times of FDA shortage and the cost is generally more economical,” Dr. Emch says. Much more economical, in fact: Compounded semaglutide is known to be a fraction of the cost of name-brand prescriptions.
But while some patients have turned to it due to shortages or cost concerns, it’s important to note that compounded versions are not FDA-approved, and their quality and safety can vary. “That is why it is important to select reputable companies like Eden who only select accredited pharmacies that pass an extensive vetting process,” Dr. Emch reiterates. “Not all compounded treatments are created equal.”
Dr. Twelves says the same. “Compounded semaglutide may be suitable for some patients, but cannot be recommended generally,” he explains. “It should be highlighted that compounded drugs have not gone through FDA assessment and therefore the safety and effectiveness profile is not known.”
Thus, if you are considering a compounded product you should both discuss this with the prescribing clinician and consider the FDA guidance: “They highlighted numerous concerns about adverse events in patients with compounded products,” he says.
Wait for a generic option
While it may seem like the GLP-1 boom has been going on forever, the truth is, we’re still in the early stages. Many more options, in terms of American-based medication and generic versions, are coming soon.
“The GLP-1 drug market is evolving, with new drugs coming to market, as well as a growing number of drugs with effectiveness beyond GLP-1,” says Dr. Twelves. “The early GLP-1 drugs are now coming out in generic versions which could have a significant impact on the cost and availability of these drugs offering further choices for the consumer.”
Make healthy lifestyle changes
Finally, you’ll want to consider healthy lifestyle changes—and that’s whether or not you’re taking medication. “These drugs work best in combination with healthy eating and regular physical activity,” Dr. Emch concludes. Plus, taking a walk is free!
