Generic liraglutide costs in 2025: With and without insurance coverage

While most people are familiar with Ozempic^® (semaglutide) and Mounjaro^® (tirzepatide), for treating type 2 diabetes and for off-label weight loss, liraglutide and the medications that contain it are less familiar. But they are very similar. Like semaglutide and tirzepatide, liraglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which means it mimics the GLP-1 hormone in the body. This action helps regulate blood sugar, lower appetite, and slow digestion, leading to diabetes control and weight loss.  

Sold under the brand names Victoza^® and Saxenda^®, liraglutide is different than semaglutide and tirzepatide because it is taken as a once-daily injection rather than weekly. It’s also the first GLP-1 to be offered in a generic version. That means that it has the potential to cost less than branded medications, though that isn’t always the case, depending on your insurance, what it’s being prescribed for, and where you get your medication. 

Let’s look at all the cost implications for generic liraglutide and what you’re likely to pay out of pocket. Plus, we’ll explore how to find out if it’s the right choice for your health goals and how to get a prescription if needed.

What is generic liraglutide? 

Generic liraglutide is available in the same doses as Victoza^®. For over 15 years, Novo Nordisk had exclusive rights to sell liraglutide, meaning no generic versions could enter the market until key patents expired in 2025. Key patents associated with it began expiring in 2025, opening the door for other companies to make generics

Current generic liraglutide options

• Authorized generic – Teva: In June 2024, Novo Nordisk partnered with Teva to release an authorized generic of Victoza^®. This version is identical to the brand-name product—same 18 mg/3 mL strength, same pen device—but sold under a generic label. Authorized generics don’t require separate FDA approval and are often launched to stay ahead of other generic competition. 
• Hikma generic (first FDA-approved generic): On December 23, 2024, Hikma Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for the first traditional generic liraglutide. Its product launched in early 2025, marking the first generic GLP-1 diabetes treatment available in the U.S. This approval was fast-tracked due to ongoing shortages.
• NKF/Meitheal generic: Another liraglutide generic, marketed by Chicago’s Meitheal, was approved on April 2, 2025, and launched the next day. Meitheal initially offers 3-pen packs but plans to expand options. Their launch was framed as improving access during high demand.
• Pending generics: Other companies have applied to launch generics. As of mid-2025, those are still pending, but more generics are expected soon, which could increase competition and lower prices.

Is there a generic for Saxenda^®? 

No, not yet. As of 2025, there’s no FDA-approved generic for Saxenda^®, the version of liraglutide used for weight loss. While generics for Victoza^® (used for diabetes) are now available, they’re not approved for obesity and don’t match Saxenda^®’s higher dose. Using them for weight loss would be considered off-label.

Why no generic? Saxenda^® is still protected by patents on its injection pen, some of which last until 2033. So for now, liraglutide for FDA-approved weight loss is only available under the brand name Saxenda^®.

How much does generic liraglutide cost without insurance?

Here is the average price range for Teva’s generic liraglutide according to Good^Rx. There isn’t much data on the other versions of generic liraglutide, yet.

• 2-pen package: $200 to $450
• 3-pen package: $280 to $750

If you compare this to Victoza^®, you’ll see that the generic version offered by Teva can be cheaper depending on where you get it: 

• 2-pen package: About $544 
• 3-pen package: About $815 

Keep in mind, too, that what you’ll pay per month will depend on which dose you are on. Each pen contains 18 mg of liraglutide. At the 1.2 mg daily dose, a pen lasts about 15 days. At the 1.8 mg daily dose (the maximum), a pen lasts 10 days. So your monthly cost will depend on your prescribed dose.

Disclaimer: Prices may change and are accurate as of the time of publication.

When does insurance cover generic liraglutide?

Yes, many insurance plans do cover generic liraglutide when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, but not for off-label weight loss. 

• Private insurance plans typically require prior authorization, meaning you might need your doctor to submit extra paperwork or prove that other treatments haven’t worked. 
• Medicare generally covers generic liraglutide for diabetes-related use. 
• Medicaid coverage depends on your state.

Even with coverage, you’ll likely still have some out-of-pocket costs. With insurance, some people pay as little as $0 per month. 

How much does generic liraglutide cost with insurance?

With generic liraglutide, the monthly cost can vary quite a bit depending on your insurance provider and whether you qualify for savings programs.

Here’s a simple breakdown to give you an idea of what to expect:

• Private insurance: If you’re covered through an employer or individual marketplace plan, you may pay anywhere from $25 to $100 per month for generic liraglutide. Teva also has a savings program for its generic version of liraglutide, allowing eligible people to pay as little as $0.
• Medicare (Part D & Advantage plans): While generic liraglutide may be covered under Part D or Medicare Advantage plans if prescribed for type 2 diabetes, it’s not covered when used for weight loss.
• Medicaid (varies by state): Medicaid coverage will depend on the state you live in. Some states offer generic liraglutide with little to no copay, while others may have stricter requirements when prescribed for diabetes.
• Veterans Affairs (VA) and TRICARE: VA and TRICARE may offer coverage for liraglutide medications like Victoza^® and generic liraglutide when prescribed for diabetes.

Can you get generic liraglutide for free with insurance?

Yes—it’s now possible to get generic liraglutide for free with commercial insurance, thanks to Teva’s $0 copay savings program. If you’re eligible, meaning your insurance covers the medication, this program can cover up to $1,275 per year, bringing your monthly cost to $0 for up to 12 fills.

Here’s how it works:

• $0 copay offer: If you have commercial insurance (not government-funded plans like Medicare or Medicaid), you may qualify for free generic liraglutide through Teva’s copay savings card.
• Maximum annual savings: The program covers up to $1,275 per calendar year, which means you could save about $106.25 per month—enough to eliminate your copay in many cases.

If you’re uninsured or have a high-deductible plan, you can’t use the copay card, but you might still reduce your costs with prescription discount cards or patient assistance programs.

How to reduce the cost of generic liraglutide without insurance

As you can see, the cost of liraglutide, even the generic version, can still be high. Here are some ways to make it more manageable: 

• Check prescription discount programs: Sites like GoodRx and SingleCare often offer lower prices for cash-paying customers, sometimes saving you hundreds each month. 
• Shop around: Shopping around at different pharmacies can make a difference, as prices vary more than you might expect from one store to another.
• Buy in bulk: Look into 90-day supply options, which can bring down the per-month cost compared to filling a prescription every 30 days. 

Where to get the best deal on generic liraglutide 

With so many pharmacy options out there, it helps to know where to look and what kind of deals you might find. Here’s a look at the current prices at some big-box stores and pharmacies from Good^Rx. To check your area, enter your zip code, and you’ll see what’s available near you.

Warehouse clubs and big supermarkets

Warehouse clubs like Costco and large grocery store pharmacies often offer competitive prices. These locations typically have transparent pricing, and some may even offer lower rates if you pay in cash.

Here’s a look at typical prices across these retailers versus Victoza^®:

Retailer	Generic liraglutide	Victoza®
Costco	2 pens: $455 3 pens: $680	2 pens: $560 3 pens: $904
Walmart	2 pens: $505 3 pens: $753	2 pens: $568 3 pens: $848
Target	2 pens: $193 3 pens: $280	2 pens: $559 3 pens: $827

Local pharmacies and discount programs

Neighborhood pharmacies and major chains may offer discounts through in-house savings programs or third-party coupon platforms.

Below is a breakdown of estimated prices at pharmacy chains:

Pharmacy	Generic liraglutide	Victoza®
CVS	2 pens: $202 3 pens: $280	2 pens: $560 3 pens: $827
Walgreens	2 pens: $406 3 pens: $538	2 pens: $545 3 pens: $808
Rite Aid	2 pens: $396 3 pens: $528	2 pens: $544 3 pens: $815

Disclaimer: Prices may change and are accurate as of the time of publication. They may vary based on your zip code.

How to get a generic liraglutide prescription for weight loss

First, a quick but important note: Generic liraglutide isn’t FDA-approved for weight loss. The only liraglutide product officially approved for that purpose is Saxenda^®, which uses a higher 3 mg daily dose specifically studied for obesity treatment. Generic versions are lower-dose (.6, 1.2, and 1.8 mg), designed for diabetes management. That means using them for weight loss is considered off-label, something you should discuss carefully with your healthcare provider.

Check your eligibility

To qualify for weight loss treatment with liraglutide, most providers follow similar criteria to Saxenda^®’s guidelines. That typically means:

• A BMI of 30 or higher, or
  
• A BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related condition like high blood pressure or high cholesterol

Talk to a healthcare provider

Doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants can all prescribe liraglutide. They’ll help assess whether off-label use of generic liraglutide is appropriate for you, explain potential side effects, and discuss how it fits into your health goals.

Consider online options

If you’d rather skip the waiting room, telehealth services offer a convenient alternative. If you qualify,  Noom Med provides virtual access to licensed clinicians who can evaluate your situation and, if appropriate, prescribe generic liraglutide for off-label weight management.

Off-label use of generic liraglutide can be an option for some people pursuing weight loss, but it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable provider to ensure it’s safe and makes sense for your needs.

How much weight can I lose with generic liraglutide?

Generic liraglutide is the same medication as Victoza^®. While not approved for weight loss, clinical trials show it can support modest weight loss when used off-label alongside healthy habits.

• 1.2 mg daily: In one trial, people taking liraglutide 1.2 mg daily lost an average of 3 to 4% of their body weight over six months.
  
• 1.8 mg daily: In the same trial, people on 1.8 mg daily lost around 4 to 5% of their body weight, with similar trends seen in longer studies up to 56 weeks.
  

These trials focused on people with type 2 diabetes. If prescribed off-label for weight loss by a provider, results may differ based on dose, biology, and lifestyle.

💡 How much do people lose taking Saxenda^®?

The higher-dose Saxenda^® (3 mg) produced greater weight loss, an average of 6% over 56 weeks.

Generic liraglutide: Side effects and safety concerns

Generic liraglutide can be an effective part of a diabetes or weight loss plan, but like any medication, it can come with side effects. Being informed helps you stay in control and know when something’s just part of the adjustment period—and when it’s time to check in with your provider.

The most common side effects

Many people experience mild to moderate side effects when they first start taking liraglutide. These are usually temporary and tend to improve as your body gets used to the medication. They’re most likely to show up in the first few days or when increasing the dosage. They include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headache

Serious side effects and warnings

While serious side effects are less common, they can happen, and it’s important to be aware of the symptoms. Here are signs of conditions that need emergency medical attention:

• Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, with or without vomiting.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Symptoms may include dizziness, shakiness, sweating, rapid heartbeat, confusion, and blurred vision. This is more likely in people taking other medications for diabetes.
• Kidney problems: Dehydration from diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting can worsen kidney function. Seek emergency care if you experience decreased urination, swelling in your legs or ankles, fatigue, or shortness of breath.
• Gallbladder problems: Symptoms include severe upper abdominal pain, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and clay-colored stools.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe rash, or rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an allergic reaction to Victoza^®, seek immediate medical attention.
• Thyroid tumors or cancer: Be alert for a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. (This risk has been observed in animal studies.) 

Weight loss alternatives to generic liraglutide 

There are several other options in the GLP-1 family that could work for weight loss, both FDA-approved and off-label. If you go through the manufacturer to fill your prescription, you might even spend less than with generic liraglutide. Let’s take a look:

Medication	Brand names and uses	Cost per month (without insurance)	Effectiveness	How it’s taken
Semaglutide	Ozempic®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss Wegovy®: weight loss and heart disease Rybelsus®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss	Ozempic®: $998 Learn more Wegovy®: $1,350 $499 (NovoCare Pharmacy) Learn more Rybelsus®: $998 Learn more	Ozempic®/Wegovy®: People lost an average of 15% of body weight in 68 weeks with injectable semaglutide Rybelsus®: People lost about 4% of their body weight	Ozempic®/Wegovy®: Weekly injection Rybelsus®: Daily pill
Tirzepatide	Mounjaro®: type 2 diabetes, off-label weight loss  Zepbound®: weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)	Mounjaro®: $1,080 Learn more Zepbound®: Pens: $1,087Vials: $349 (2.5 mg) $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) Learn more	People lost an average of 21% of body weight at 72 weeks.	Weekly injection

Other GLP-1 alternatives

If GLP-1 medications aren’t the right fit, there are still several effective prescription options available to support your weight loss journey. These alternatives work in different ways—some help suppress appetite, others affect how your body processes fat or blood sugar.

Here’s a quick comparison of some of the most common non-GLP-1 weight loss medications:

Medication	Brand names	Cost per month (without insurance)	Effectiveness	How it’s taken
Metformin (off-label weight loss)	Glucophage®, Fortamet®, Glumetza®	Generic: $4–$15 Brand name: $100–$500+ Learn more.	People lost an average of about 6% of their body weight over six months while taking metformin.	Pill taken up to two times daily
Phentermine	Lomaira®, Adipex-P®	$27-$100	About 80% of people with a BMI of 30 or more lost at least 5% of their body weight in 6 months.	Daily pill
Diethylpropion	Tenuate®, Tenuate Dospan®	$40-$85	People lost an average of 10% of their body weight in 6 months.	Pill taken one to three times daily
Naltrexone and bupropion	Contrave®	$600-$800 CurAccess™: $99	People lost an average of 7 to 8% of their body weight in a year.	Pill taken up to twice daily
Orlistat	Xenical®, Alli®	$50-$800	People in a study lost about 10% of body weight after taking Orlistat for 1 year.	Pill taken three times daily with meals.

Your path to a healthier you with Noom

With the arrival of generic liraglutide, more people now have access to a proven GLP-1 medication that can help manage type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, support weight loss. While it isn’t a generic for Saxenda^® and isn’t officially approved for weight loss treatment, some healthcare providers may prescribe it off-label for those who qualify. Understanding the differences in dosing, cost, and coverage is key to making an informed decision.

If you’re considering generic liraglutide, be sure to talk to your provider about your health history, weight loss goals, and any potential risks. Whether you’re focused on blood sugar control or exploring off-label options for weight management, working with a knowledgeable clinician ensures the safest, most effective approach. With the right plan—and the right prescription—you can feel confident about taking the next step toward your health goals. If you qualify for Noom Med, you’ll be paired with a clinician who can find the right medication for you and prescribe it if needed. You’ll also get a personalized weight loss plan and access to all of Noom’s tools and trackers to help you reach your goals.