If you’ve been considering Ozempic to either help you manage your type 2 diabetes, or with weight management, then you may be wondering how best to maximize your savings. After all, with the rising cost of living, every little helps, and Ozempic is only covered by your insurance if prescribed to treat type 2 diabetes.
Costco pharmacies are known for low prices, so in some ways getting your Ozempic supply from Costco is the logical choice. However, is it available at Costco Canada and should you access the prescription through them?
In this article we’ll look at:
- What Ozempic is
- Why you shouldn’t fulfill your prescription at Costco Canada
- How much it’ll cost to purchase Ozempic from Costco Canada
- The advantages and disadvantages of buying from Costco Canada
- Whether or not buying Ozempic at Costco Canada is worth it
- Frequently asked questions.
Let’s get into the topic together!
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic, also known by its generic name semaglutide, is an injectable medication used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and to improve cardiovascular health (ie, preventing the risk of conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, or death). It may also be prescribed for weight management in those with a BMI over 27.
Semaglutide is part of a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the effects of natural hormones in the body to regulate blood sugar levels.
While Ozempic is marketed by Novo Nordisk, you may also see semaglutide with other brand names, including Wegovy and Rybelsus. There are also a number of other drugs for the treatment of diabetes on the market, though not all will have the same effects as semaglutide.
If you have type 2 diabetes, semaglutide helps to reduce A1C and blood sugar levels. A side effect, which assists with weight management, is that the drug suppresses appetite as well as increases satiety (ie, helps people feel full after meals). This may lead to a reduction of food intake.
Like any medication, it’s important to discuss potential side effects with your medical team, particularly as there are a number of side effects and contraindications you should be aware of.
It’s also important to note that, unless you have a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, Ozempic is usually not covered by Medicare insurance, nor can you access copay privileges. That means that you’ll have to pay the full amount out of your own pocket.
What Does It Cost?
The Cost of Ozempic in Canada is extremely variable, as it will depend on a number of factors. For example:
- Whether or not you’re covered by Medicare
- Your dosage amount and frequency, as well as treatment term.
In some cases, you may be able to either access discounts or coupons from certain websites, which can help with the cost of Ozempic.
If you’re worried about the cost of accessing semaglutide, be sure to keep your eyes open (especially when reading pharmaceutical websites) for any potential savings.
Why You Don’t Want to Get Ozempic at Costco Canada
While Costco Canada is known for offering competitive pricing on medications, there are some reasons that you might not want to fill your prescription at Costco.
Firstly, it is not accessible to everyone, depending on the province or territory you live in. If you prefer to fill your prescription in store, there may not be a Costco in your area, meaning filling it at your local pharmacy or Walgreens may be better.
Filling your prescription in store also means that you’ll be able to ask the pharmacist any questions you might have, which is not an available option online at Costco.
Additionally, though Costco will be able to provide you with an overview of how to take Ozempic, recommended dosage, and what side effects you may experience, beyond that, you’ll have to navigate any questions or issues on your own.
They also won’t be able to advise you on lifestyle changes, so if you’re primarily taking Ozempic for weight management, any loss you may experience will likely be neither long-term nor sustainable.
Ozempic Cost at Costco Canada
The cost of Ozempic from Costco in Canada may vary from province to province. Here’s a basic breakdown of what to expect.
Prices for the 1-Month Prescription Package
Costco is noted for offering among the lowest prices on prescription medications. In one Reddit thread, a user recommended Costco for sourcing Ozempic due to the low cost.
As Costco is known for having no dispensing fees, this makes them the best choice to fill a prescription for those who don’t have coverage.
Prices for the 2-Month and Beyond Prescription Package
Medication costs are generally cheaper the more you order, so the 2-Month and Beyond prescription package is likely to be more cost effective.
Advantages of Shopping at Costco Canada for Ozempic
If you do decide to shop at Costco Canada for Ozempic, it comes with a range of benefits.
Not only do they have a well-earned reputation as being competitively priced, which can offer significant savings on medications, there are also a number of other reasons why you may want to purchase from Costco Canada.
Low Costs Compared to Other Pharmacies Nationwide
Thanks to Costco being a huge multinational chain, they have a lot of buying power. This allows them to negotiate cheaper prices for medications, often making them cheaper than other pharmacies.
Variety of Payment Options Available
Costco Canada accepts multiple forms of payment, including insurance plans, cash, debit, Apple Pay, and major credit cards. This flexibility can make transactions and paying bills smoother and more convenient for customers.
Convenience of Home Delivery Service or In-Store Pickup
For added convenience, Costco pharmacies may offer both home delivery and in-store pickup options. This gives patients the flexibility to choose the method that works best for them, whether they prefer to have their medications delivered directly to their home via mail, or pick up on a Costco shopping trip.
Disadvantages of Shopping at Costco Canada for Ozempic
On the other hand, shopping for Ozempic at Costco Canada is not without its disadvantages. In theory it’s a great low-cost option, but in practice there may be issues.
Limited Availability in Some Areas
Just like any other pharmacy, Costco pharmacies can experience supply issues.
While there is no shortage across Canada currently, if Ozempic continues to rise in demand, this could limit accessibility to patients who live in rural or remote provinces.
Limited Selection and Stock Levels Depending on Location
Depending on supply, stock levels can be low in some areas, particularly during periods of high demand.
No Guidance or Assistance in Lifestyle Changes Necessary for Long-Term Weight Loss
While Costco pharmacies can provide your prescribed medications, their services typically do not include extensive patient education or lifestyle management advice often necessary for dealing with conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity.
For personalized advice on diet, physical activity, and other aspects of diabetes and weight management, individuals should consult their medical team, or programs specifically designed for weight management.
Is Buying Ozempic from Costco Canada Worth It?
Whether or not buying Ozempic from Costco Canada is worth it depends largely on your financial situation.
From a monetary point of view, Costco offers competitive pricing, which can result in big savings for prescriptions. They also accept a variety of payment methods and offer payment plans.
Convenience is also important. If you prefer to shop in store and don’t have a Costco close by, this could be a downside.
If you prefer online shopping, you can make use of home delivery services that Costco Pharmacies offer. However, this may be a problem for people who like to be able to question their pharmacist about their medications.
Regardless, be sure to consult your medical team before you begin Ozempic so that you can be fully informed about the associated risks and side effects, as well as ensure that your treatment is being overseen.
Ozempic Cost at Costco Canada FAQs
Can I get Ozempic in Canada?
Yes, Ozempic is available in Canada, and is approved to treat both type 2 diabetes and weight management in those with a BMI over 27.
Once you have a prescription, it can be filled at a range of pharmacies, including Costco pharmacies.
Is Ozempic expensive in Canada?
Whether Ozempic is expensive or not depends on your perception. To some it may seem like a lot of money, to others it is quite reasonable.
In general, Canadian medicine products prices are cheaper than in the U.S., though certain Canadian provinces and states have recently cracked down on out-of-country residents purchasing Ozempic. This is thanks to residents from California and elsewhere in the United States reportedly buying Ozempic across the border from Canada and Mexico in order to access it more cheaply.
What is the price of Ozempic in Canada?
The price of Ozempic in Canada varies based on factors such as:
- The dosage
- The quantity of the medication
- The specific pharmacy
- The patient’s insurance coverage.
For the most current and accurate information, it’s best to contact your pharmacy directly, check prices on the pharmacy’s website, or inquire with your insurance provider about out-of-pocket costs.
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