Trump Strikes Deal to Cut Obesity Drug Prices to $149, Expands Medicare Coverage

US President Donald Trump has announced a historic deal with pharmaceutical companies Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to lower the cost of popular obesity drugs. The agreement also expands Medicare coverage to make these medications more accessible to millions of Americans.

The weight-loss drugs Zepbound and Wegovy are usually prescribed to help manage Type 2 diabetes and obesity. Currently, a month’s supply can cost between $500 and $650 for people without insurance, making it difficult for many to afford. Starting in 2026, new lower-cost pill versions may be available for as little as $149 per month. Existing injectable treatments are also expected to drop to around $350 per month.

The deal is part of a new program called TrumpRx, which aims to help uninsured Americans buy these medicines directly from manufacturers at reduced prices. For those on Medicare, co-pays will be limited to $50, while Medicaid users may pay very little or nothing.

In a White House statement, Trump highlighted that the agreement could save Americans money while helping them access drugs that manage obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other related conditions. “This is a historic reduction in prices for Americans on two of the most expensive medications,” the statement read.

Obesity is a growing health concern in the United States. According to the CDC, nearly 40% of American adults are affected. Studies published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition show that obesity drugs like Zepbound and Wegovy can help people lose between 15% and 22% of their body weight—sometimes resulting in a weight loss of over 50 pounds.

Experts say that making these drugs more affordable could improve health outcomes for millions. High costs have previously been a barrier, preventing many Americans from accessing treatments that could help them maintain a healthy weight and reduce risks of related diseases.

This deal is expected to have a major impact on public health by making weight management drugs more accessible. The combination of lower prices and expanded Medicare coverage could help Americans fight obesity and improve overall wellness.