How much does weight loss medication cost?
Concerns about the costs of weight loss medication are real and relevant
It is expensive to take weight loss medication – if you reach the full dosage, it can cost up to 35,000 kroner per year, which you have to pay out of your own pocket.
The price of weight loss medication
Full dosage of the medication costs up to 35,000 kroner per year. It is a significant expense for most people, and therefore many have to opt out of the medication for financial reasons, even if they are in the target group and may want to try it.
Is the cost preventing you from taking weight loss medication?
It is completely understandable if concerns about the cost of weight loss drugs prevent you from starting it – even if you are in the target group.
There may also be concerns about how long you need to be on the drug, and whether it will end up being a lifelong expense.
It will be very individual, both whether the medication has the desired effect and how long you need to take it. After starting the treatment, you will need to have check-ups with your doctor, and together with the doctor, you will weigh the pros and cons of the treatment to make the best decision regarding the duration and dosage of the treatment. However, it is important to decide whether there is room in your budget to purchase the medication.
You save on other things
We have talked to several people who say that they hardly notice a difference in their household budget after starting the drug. For many, the medication significantly reduces their shopping, and they stop spending as much money on quick food solutions like fast food and ready meals. Purchases of candy and snacks are also significantly reduced. Some even experience less craving for cigarettes, so if that is a habit you have, some can also save money here. The same applies to alcohol. Many have less desire or react more strongly to alcohol, which means they drink less.
Get answers to typical questions about weight loss medication
Being on a full dosage of weight loss medication can cost up to 35,000 kroner per year. This amount has to be paid by the patient themselves, as the medication is often not eligible for subsidies.
The cost of weight loss medication reflects the expenses of research, development, and production of the drug. The high price may also be a result of the medication’s effectiveness and the technology used to manufacture it.
Yes, it is entirely understandable if financial concerns make you hesitate to start weight loss medication, even if you are otherwise in the target group for the treatment.
The duration of the treatment can vary greatly from person to person. It depends on how you respond to the drug and what goals you have for your weight loss. This is something you will discuss with your doctor, who will help you assess the pros and cons of continued treatment.
Many people find that their expenses for food, snacks, fast food, cigarettes, and alcohol decrease when they take weight loss drugs. This is because the drug can reduce appetite and the urge for unhealthy habits, potentially leading to savings in other parts of the budget.
Generally, weight loss drugs are not eligible for subsidies. However, members of some health insurance plans may have previously received subsidies. It is important to investigate current rules and possibilities, as these can change over time.
Before starting weight loss medication, it is important to consider whether you are willing to incorporate the medication costs into your budget. It can be helpful to think about the potential savings in other areas of your spending that may arise as a result of lifestyle changes when taking the drug. Discussing this with your doctor can also help you understand what you can realistically expect from the treatment, both in terms of effect and duration. Additionally, it is important to remember that weight loss medication cannot stand alone. You still need to change your diet and exercise habits. It is not a quick fix.