The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge: $50/Month Wegovy, Zepbound KwikPen and Foundayo Through 2027

What is the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge?

The Medicare GLP-1 Bridge is a temporary Medicare program that covers certain GLP-1 drugs for weight loss for a $50 copay a month. It runs from July 1, 2026, through December 31, 2027.

GLP-1 drugs act like a hormone your body makes to help control appetite and blood sugar. Part D, Medicare's prescription drug coverage, covers them for conditions such as type 2 diabetes, but not for weight loss. The Bridge fills that gap for now. It runs outside your Part D plan's usual benefit.

For other Medicare changes in 2027, see what's changing in Medicare Advantage for 2027.

Which drugs does the Bridge cover?

The Bridge covers three drugs: Wegovy, Foundayo and Zepbound KwikPen. Zepbound is covered only as the KwikPen.

Part D plans cover Ozempic and Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes. More on each drug: our Zepbound coverage guide and our Foundayo coverage guide.

Who qualifies for the Bridge?

To qualify, you must be 18 or older, have Medicare drug coverage and meet the BMI criteria. You also need prior authorization, the program's approval before it pays. Drug coverage can be a stand-alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan with drug coverage. Your BMI, measured when you start the drug, must meet one of these:

• A BMI of 35 or higher

• A BMI of 30 or higher, plus diastolic heart failure, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or chronic kidney disease at stage 3a or higher

• A BMI of 27 or higher, plus prediabetes, a past heart attack or stroke, or peripheral artery disease with symptoms

Your prescriber must also certify that you're using the drug with a diet and exercise program.

You aren't eligible if your Part D plan already covers a GLP-1 for you. You also aren't eligible if you have type 2 diabetes, moderate to severe sleep apnea or fatty liver disease. Medicare.gov says your Part D plan may cover a GLP-1 for those conditions.

What does the Bridge cost?

You pay a $50 copay at the pharmacy for a one-month supply, which is 28 or 30 days depending on the drug. The Part D deductible doesn't apply.

• The out-of-pocket cap: the $50 doesn't count toward your Part D out-of-pocket cap ($2,100 in 2026, $2,400 in 2027).

• Extra Help: Medicare's program for people with limited income doesn't lower the $50.

• Payment plan: the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan can't spread the $50 over the year.

• Your statements: Bridge copays don't appear on your Part D Explanation of Benefits.

Our guide to Medicare Part D in 2027 explains the cap and deductible for your other drugs.

How to start on the Bridge

You start with a prescription from a doctor who can check whether you meet the criteria.

1. Talk to a doctor. Bring your height, weight and any conditions on the list above.

2. Get the prescription sent. Your prescriber sends it to your pharmacy. The pharmacy and Medicare handle the approval.

3. Pay at the pharmacy. Once it's approved, you pay $50 for each one-month supply. The pharmacy may ask for your Medicare Number or the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number.

Is it worth a morning off and a waiting room to find out whether you qualify? A licensed doctor on Doctronic can talk through whether you may qualify and prescribe if appropriate. Doctronic accepts Medicare.

What happens after 2027?

CMS hasn't said what replaces the Bridge after December 31, 2027.

Don't count on the $50 price after 2027. During open enrollment in fall 2027, compare your options at Medicare.gov, by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or with your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). For how Medicare covers GLP-1s for diabetes, see our guide to Medicare GLP-1 coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ozempic covered by the $50 program?

No. Ozempic isn't part of the GLP-1 Bridge. Wegovy has the same active ingredient and is in the Bridge for weight loss if you qualify.

Does the Bridge cover Zepbound vials?

No. Only the Zepbound KwikPen is included. If you're on vials or single-dose pens, ask your prescriber whether the KwikPen is an option.

Can I use the Bridge with a Medicare Advantage plan?

Yes, if your Medicare Advantage plan includes drug coverage. You still need to meet the BMI criteria and get prior authorization.

Do I need a new approval every time my dose changes?

Ask your prescriber and pharmacy whether a dose change needs a new approval.

Can I use the Bridge if I have type 2 diabetes?

No. People with type 2 diabetes aren't eligible. Your Part D plan may cover a GLP-1 for diabetes instead.

The Bottom Line

If you're thinking about a GLP-1 for weight loss, ask a doctor whether you meet the Bridge's BMI criteria. Check that the prescription names a covered drug and, for Zepbound, the KwikPen. Plan for the $50 to sit outside your Part D cap, and recheck your coverage before 2028.