Medically assisted weight loss has become one of the fastest-growing healthcare trends in Canada.
Medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Saxenda are helping patients achieve sustainable results when lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough.
But there’s one question most Canadians ask before starting treatment:
“How much do these weight loss medications cost — and will my insurance cover them?”
This guide breaks down the average monthly costs in 2025, what influences pricing, and how your local pharmacy in Richmond Hill can help you access these medications safely and affordably.
Understanding Weight Loss Medications in Canada
The most common prescription weight loss drugs available in Canada belong to a class called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications help regulate appetite, digestion, and insulin response by mimicking a natural hormone in the body.
The three most prescribed options are:
- Ozempic (semaglutide) – primarily for Type 2 diabetes, sometimes prescribed off-label for weight loss.
- Wegovy (semaglutide) – same active ingredient as Ozempic but officially approved for weight management.
- Saxenda (liraglutide) – a daily injectable that supports gradual, sustained weight loss.
Each has a different dosage, delivery system, and cost — which can vary by province, pharmacy, and coverage type.
Average Monthly Cost in 2025
| Medication | Type / Frequency | Average Monthly Cost (Without Insurance) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) | Weekly injection | $350 – $500 | Approved for chronic weight management; not covered by OHIP. |
| Ozempic (semaglutide 0.25–2 mg) | Weekly injection | $250 – $400 | Covered by OHIP for diabetes only; off-label weight-loss use not covered. |
| Saxenda (liraglutide 3 mg) | Daily injection | $350 – $500 | Covered by some private plans; requires daily use and refrigeration. |
| Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion) | Oral tablets | $250 – $300 | Prescription oral alternative; coverage varies widely. |
| Xenical (orlistat) | Oral capsules | $150 – $200 | Older option; sometimes covered under basic drug plans. |
Note: Prices are approximate retail costs in Ontario and can vary slightly between pharmacies or based on manufacturer supply.
Why Prices Vary Across Canada
The cost of prescription medications in Canada depends on several factors:
- Manufacturer pricing and availability — demand for GLP-1 medications has surged, occasionally affecting supply.
- Dosage strength and packaging — higher doses or prefilled pens cost more per unit.
- Provincial differences — drug markups, dispensing fees, and public plan policies vary slightly across provinces.
- Insurance and pharmacy programs — coverage through private or employer plans can reduce costs significantly.
At Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill, we work directly with suppliers to provide transparent pricing and assist patients in exploring all funding options available to them.
OHIP Coverage and Public Drug Programs
In Ontario, OHIP does not cover weight loss medications such as Wegovy, Saxenda, or Contrave, since they are not listed as essential drugs on the Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) Formulary.
However, there are two exceptions:
- Ozempic is covered only for patients with Type 2 diabetes who meet certain clinical criteria (LU code required).
- Trillium Drug Program can offer partial coverage for eligible households whose annual drug costs are high compared to income — but only for drugs approved on the Formulary (such as Ozempic for diabetes).
If your prescription is strictly for weight loss, these medications will generally be out-of-pocket expenses unless supported by private insurance.
Private Insurance Coverage
Most private or employer health plans in Canada now recognize GLP-1 medications as part of “metabolic health” or “obesity management” coverage.
Coverage typically depends on:
- The medical indication (diabetes vs. weight management)
- The prescribing doctor’s documentation
- Plan design and annual maximums
Pharmacies can submit a predetermination request to confirm if your plan covers Wegovy or Saxenda before you commit to purchasing.
If approved, many insurers cover 80–100% of the cost.
How Pharmacists Can Help You Save
Pharmacists play an essential role in helping patients manage medication costs.
At Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill, we help you:
- Verify your insurance coverage before filling your prescription
- Compare medication strengths and refill intervals for cost efficiency
- Enroll in manufacturer support programs (Novo Nordisk occasionally offers savings for eligible patients)
- Explore alternatives if a medication isn’t covered under your plan
- Provide guidance on storage, dosing, and injection technique to avoid waste
By working closely with both your doctor and insurer, pharmacists ensure you’re not paying more than necessary for your treatment.
Cost Comparison: Monthly vs. Long-Term Investment
While the upfront cost may seem high, many patients view GLP-1 medications as a long-term health investment.
For example:
- Wegovy users lose an average of 15% of body weight in one year.
- Ozempic users (off-label) report 6–8% average weight loss when paired with lifestyle changes.
These outcomes can lead to improved blood pressure, cholesterol, and energy levels — potentially reducing future healthcare costs.
Still, it’s essential to have a clear financial plan and discuss affordability with your pharmacist before starting therapy.
Tips for Managing Medication Costs
- Check all coverage options – OHIP, Trillium, private insurance, and manufacturer programs.
- Ask your doctor to specify the diagnosis on the prescription (e.g., Type 2 diabetes) when applicable.
- Stay consistent with your pharmacy — loyalty helps with tracking price changes and access to refill reminders.
- Plan for refills – many GLP-1 pens are supplied in monthly packs; pharmacists can help time orders to avoid shortages.
- Use a registered Richmond Hill pharmacy — pharmacists can coordinate with insurers in real-time for savings verification.
The Role of Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill
At Viva Health Pharmacy, we understand how important affordability is for long-term treatment success.
Our pharmacists can:
- Help you understand current pricing and potential savings
- Submit coverage checks to your insurer
- Advise on switching between similar medications when appropriate
- Provide safe injection guidance and ongoing follow-up care
We’re committed to transparency, accessibility, and professional care — so you can focus on your health goals, not financial stress.
In 2025, the average monthly cost of weight loss medications in Canada ranges between $250 and $500, depending on the drug and coverage.
While OHIP doesn’t cover these treatments for weight loss purposes, private insurance and pharmacist support can significantly reduce costs and simplify your care.
If you’re considering starting a prescription like Wegovy, Ozempic, or Saxenda, visit Viva Health Pharmacy in Richmond Hill for a personalized consultation and transparent cost breakdown.
