Cigna's Evernorth strikes pricing deal with Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk for weight loss drugs

From CNBC: 2025-05-21 18:15:00

Cigna’s pharmacy benefits unit Evernorth strikes deal with drug makers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to bring down prices for weight loss drugs Wegovy and Zepbound, capping employee out-of-pocket costs at $200 per month. Clients could see up to a 20% reduction in costs with simplified pre-authorization process and consistent pricing across pharmacies.

Analysts estimate large employers and insurers are getting 30% to 50% discounts below the drugs’ list price. Novo’s Wegovy lists for $1,350 with an average net price of $616, while Lilly’s Zepbound lists for $1,100 with a net price of $725. Evernorth and CVS Caremark’s new arrangements could bring net prices even lower.

Government negotiating Medicare discounts for Novo Nordisk’s products under the Inflation Reduction Act, making them preferred drugs in the program starting in 2027. This could lead to even further price reductions, affecting Eli Lilly’s market competitiveness. Evernorth’s new weight loss pricing program set to begin in the second half of the year for employer coverage decisions.



Read more at CNBC: Cigna reaches new deal on Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk weight loss drugs