Zepbound self-pay prices by dose
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is made by Eli Lilly. LillyDirect sells the single-dose vial and the KwikPen to people paying cash, with free delivery or pickup. As of October 2026, these are Lilly's posted self-pay prices for one month:
| Dose | Vial or KwikPen, refill within 45 days | Vial or KwikPen, refill after 45 days |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg (starting dose) | $299 | $299 |
| 5 mg | $399 | $399 |
| 7.5 mg | $449 | $499 |
| 10 mg | $449 | $699 |
| 12.5 mg | $449 | $699 |
| 15 mg | $449 | $699 |
Lilly notes that 2.5 mg is a starting dose and is not approved as a maintenance dose. Your clinician decides the dose.
The 45-day refill rule
The $449 price for 7.5 mg and higher comes from Lilly's Zepbound Journey Program. To keep it, you must refill within 45 days of the delivery or pickup of your last fill. If you refill later, the regular price applies: $499 for 7.5 mg and $699 for 10 to 15 mg.
New and existing patients qualify. If the pharmacy can't confirm your timing at checkout but you qualify, Lilly lets you file a reimbursement claim online or by mail; claims are due by March 31, 2027.
Zepbound savings card rules
- Commercial insurance that covers Zepbound: as little as $25 for a one-, two- or three-month fill of the single-dose pen, up to $100 in savings a month and $1,300 a year.
- Commercial insurance that doesn't cover Zepbound: the single-dose pen can be as low as $499 for a one-month fill with the card.
- Paying cash: the self-pay card is only for cash-paying patients. You can't bill insurance for it, and it doesn't count toward your deductible or out-of-pocket maximum.
- Government coverage: you can't use the card if you have Medicare (including Part D and Medicare Advantage), Medicaid, TRICARE, VA or other government drug coverage.
- Other limits: you must be 18 or older and live in the U.S. or Puerto Rico. All card programs end December 31, 2026.
Zepbound with Medicare
Since July 1, 2026, the temporary Medicare GLP-1 Bridge lets eligible Part D members get the Zepbound KwikPen (not vials or single-dose pens) for a $50 copay a month, through December 31, 2027. Eligibility depends on BMI and certain health conditions, and your prescriber handles prior authorization. People with type 2 diabetes or moderate to severe sleep apnea aren't eligible for the Bridge because their Part D plan may cover the drug. See does Medicare cover GLP-1s.
Other things that change what you pay
- Supplies. Vials need needles and syringes; KwikPens need pen needles. Both are bought separately.
- Form. The single-dose pen isn't sold at the self-pay price. It is mainly for people whose insurance covers it.
- Coverage. If your plan covers Zepbound, your copay may be far lower. See is tirzepatide covered by insurance.
- HSA and FSA. LillyDirect lists Zepbound as HSA/FSA eligible and says eligibility may vary by plan. Check with your plan administrator or a tax advisor.
For every tirzepatide option side by side, including Mounjaro, see tirzepatide cost.
Common questions
How much is Zepbound a month without insurance?
As of October 2026, Zepbound vials or KwikPens from LillyDirect cost $299 (2.5 mg), $399 (5 mg) and $449 (7.5 to 15 mg) a month if you refill within 45 days. Late refills at 7.5 mg and above cost $499 to $699.
Is the Zepbound vial cheaper than the KwikPen?
No. As of October 2026, Lilly lists the same self-pay prices for the vial and the KwikPen at every dose. Vials need needles and syringes, and KwikPens need pen needles, bought separately.
Can I get the Zepbound pen for $25 without insurance?
No. The $25 offer is for people whose commercial insurance covers Zepbound. Without coverage, the single-dose pen can be as low as $499 a month with the savings card.
Can I use the Zepbound savings card with Medicare?
No. Lilly's card excludes Medicare, Medicaid and other government plans. Eligible Part D members can instead get the KwikPen for $50 a month through the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge.
What happens if I refill Zepbound late?
For 7.5 mg and higher, refilling more than 45 days after your last fill drops the $449 price. You pay the regular price: $499 for 7.5 mg or $699 for 10 to 15 mg.
Sources
- Zepbound on LillyDirect Eli Lilly and Company
- Zepbound coverage and savings Eli Lilly and Company
- Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Medicare.gov, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea U.S. Food and Drug Administration
This guide is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace a visit with a licensed clinician. Gabriel membership is not health insurance.