Trulicity (dulaglutide) remains one of the most widely prescribed once-weekly GLP-1 injections for adults with type 2 diabetes who need better blood sugar control. Many patients also value its consistent, modest weight-loss effect and proven reduction in major cardiovascular events for those with heart disease or multiple risk factors. When insurance is not in the picture, however, the monthly price tag becomes a real concern for people paying cash or waiting for coverage approval.
Without insurance, the full list price (wholesale acquisition cost) for a 4-week supply of Trulicity pens hovers around $900–$1,100 in 2025–2026, depending on the dose strength (0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3.0 mg, or 4.5 mg) and the pharmacy. Actual cash prices at retail pharmacies frequently land slightly lower thanks to competition and pharmacy discount cards, but they rarely drop below $800 for a month’s supply even with the best coupons.
The good news is that several manufacturer-sponsored programs, pharmacy savings cards, and cash-pay strategies can bring the out-of-pocket cost down substantially for eligible patients. This article explains current uninsured prices, the main ways to reduce them, and realistic expectations so you can budget accurately and avoid overpaying.
Current Trulicity Cash Prices Without Insurance (2025–2026)
As of mid-2025 through 2026, the full list price (WAC) for one carton of four Trulicity pens (28-day supply) ranges from approximately $977 to $1,069 depending on the dose. All four strengths carry the same list price because Eli Lilly prices the pen the same regardless of the delivered amount of dulaglutide.
At major retail pharmacies without any discount programs, cash-paying patients typically pay $890–$1,050 per month after standard pharmacy markups and dispensing fees. Smaller independent pharmacies and some regional chains occasionally offer prices $50–$150 lower, especially if you ask for their cash price before insurance adjudication.
Prices fluctuate slightly month to month due to manufacturer price adjustments, wholesaler fees, and pharmacy competition. The figures above reflect national averages reported by major price aggregators and direct pharmacy quotes in late 2025.
Trulicity Price Without Insurance – Dose-by-Dose Breakdown
All Trulicity pens (0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3.0 mg, 4.5 mg) are priced identically at the list level—approximately $977–$1,069 per carton of four pens. This uniform pricing simplifies budgeting but means patients on higher doses do not pay more at the pharmacy counter for the medication itself.
After standard pharmacy markup and dispensing fees, the cash price for any strength usually falls in the $890–$1,050 range per month. Some large chains and big-box retailers (e.g., Walmart, Costco with membership, Sam’s Club) consistently offer prices toward the lower end of that range for cash customers.
Compounded versions of dulaglutide are not FDA-approved and are not available through legitimate pharmacies in the same way as branded Trulicity. Avoid offers for “generic” or compounded Trulicity, as they carry significant safety and legal risks.
Manufacturer Savings and Cash-Pay Programs
Eli Lilly offers the Trulicity Savings Card for commercially insured patients, reducing the cost to as low as $25 for a 30-day supply (maximum savings $150 per fill, up to 12 fills per year). This card is not available to Medicare, Medicaid, or other government-insurance beneficiaries.
For patients without commercial insurance or those who do not qualify for the savings card, LillyDirect provides a direct-to-patient cash-pay program. Through LillyDirect, cash prices for Trulicity are often $850–$950 per month (four pens), depending on dose and pharmacy partner. The program includes free home delivery in many cases.
Some independent pharmacies and discount networks (GoodRx, SingleCare, RxSaver, Blink Health) regularly list Trulicity cash prices in the $800–$950 range at participating locations. These prices change frequently, so checking the coupon on the day of pickup is essential.
Pharmacy Discount Cards and Cash-Pay Strategies
GoodRx, SingleCare, and similar platforms provide printable or app-based coupons that reduce the cash price at thousands of pharmacies nationwide. In 2025–2026, the best coupons typically bring the price to $800–$920 for a 28-day supply, with occasional promotions dipping below $800 at select locations.
Costco (membership required) and Sam’s Club pharmacies frequently offer some of the lowest cash prices for Trulicity—often $800–$880 per carton when paying cash without insurance. These clubs do not require a membership for pharmacy purchases in most states, though non-members may pay a small surcharge in some locations.
Walmart, Kroger, and other large chains sometimes match or beat discount-card prices when you present the coupon at checkout. Calling ahead to compare cash prices at several pharmacies in your area can save $50–$200 per month.
Comparison of Trulicity Cash Prices by Source (2025–2026 Estimates)
Here is a realistic side-by-side comparison of typical cash prices for a 28-day supply (four pens) without insurance:
| Source / Method | Typical Cash Price Range (per month) | Notes / Eligibility Requirements | Delivery Option? | Price Stability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Retail (no coupon) | $890 – $1,050 | Standard pharmacy price before any discounts | No | Moderate | No planning needed |
| GoodRx / SingleCare / RxSaver coupon | $800 – $920 | Free coupon on phone or printed; accepted at most chains | No | Frequent changes | Quick savings at local pharmacies |
| LillyDirect (direct purchase program) | $850 – $950 | Available to cash-pay patients; no insurance needed | Yes (home delivery) | Relatively stable | Reliable price + free shipping |
| Costco / Sam’s Club Pharmacy | $800 – $880 | Membership usually not required for pharmacy; call ahead | No | Very stable | Lowest consistent cash price |
| Walmart / Kroger / regional chains | $820 – $940 | Often match GoodRx or better; check weekly ads | No | Frequent changes | Local convenience + occasional deals |
Prices are approximate national averages and can vary by ZIP code, pharmacy chain, and current promotions. Always verify on the day of pickup.
Additional Ways to Lower the Monthly Cost
Ask your doctor for samples—many offices keep starter pens or full cartons of Trulicity for new patients. A few weeks of free medication can bridge the gap while you arrange a lower cash price or apply for assistance.
Check whether your employer or union offers a prescription discount program through a third-party vendor. These programs sometimes negotiate rates lower than public discount cards.
Look into state or charitable assistance programs for uninsured or underinsured patients. Organizations such as NeedyMeds, RxAssist, and Partnership for Prescription Assistance list foundations that occasionally help with GLP-1 costs for qualifying individuals.
If you have a high-deductible health plan, ask your doctor about using a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) for Trulicity. These tax-advantaged accounts can reduce the effective cost by 20–40% depending on your tax bracket.
Realistic Expectations for Cost Over Time
Most patients who use discount cards or LillyDirect pay $800–$950 per month consistently in 2025–2026. Over a full year, that equals $9,600–$11,400 out of pocket without any insurance contribution.
If you qualify for the commercial savings card (U.S. commercial insurance only, no government plans), the cost drops to $25 per month (maximum $150 savings per fill, 12 fills per year), bringing the annual total to $300 plus any deductible or copay phase costs.
For Medicare beneficiaries, coverage is limited. Some Medicare Advantage plans include modest prescription drug benefits that partially cover Trulicity under the Part D portion, but out-of-pocket costs can still reach several thousand dollars annually until catastrophic coverage kicks in.
Summary
Without insurance, Trulicity costs $890–$1,050 per month at full retail prices in 2025–2026, with most cash-paying patients able to reduce that to $800–$950 using GoodRx, SingleCare, LillyDirect, Costco, or similar discount channels. All four dose strengths carry the same list price, so moving from 1.5 mg to 3.0 mg or 4.5 mg does not increase the monthly cash cost. Manufacturer savings cards can drop the price to $25 per month for eligible commercially insured patients, but government-plan beneficiaries (Medicare, Medicaid) cannot use that card.
Shopping around, using reputable discount platforms, and asking about samples or payment plans are the most reliable ways to lower the out-of-pocket expense. For many patients, the combination of modest weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and cardiovascular risk reduction justifies the investment when lower-cost alternatives are not sufficient. Always confirm current pricing with your pharmacy and explore every available discount before paying full retail.
FAQ
How much does Trulicity cost per month without insurance in 2025–2026?
Full retail prices range from $890 to $1,050 per month (four pens, 28-day supply) at most pharmacies. Using GoodRx, SingleCare, or LillyDirect typically reduces the cash price to $800–$950 per month.
Do all Trulicity doses cost the same without insurance?
Yes—Eli Lilly prices every pen strength (0.75 mg, 1.5 mg, 3.0 mg, 4.5 mg) the same at the wholesale level. The monthly cash cost remains consistent regardless of which dose you use.
Is LillyDirect cheaper than regular pharmacies for cash-pay patients?
Yes, LillyDirect often provides one of the most reliable cash prices ($850–$950 per month) with free home delivery in many areas. It is specifically designed for patients paying without insurance or without access to commercial savings cards.
Can I use the Trulicity Savings Card if I have Medicare?
No, the savings card is only for patients with commercial (private) insurance. Medicare, Medicaid, VA, and other government-plan beneficiaries are not eligible. Some Medicare Advantage plans cover Trulicity under Part D, but out-of-pocket costs vary widely.
Does Costco really have the lowest cash price for Trulicity?
Costco pharmacies frequently offer some of the lowest cash prices ($800–$880 per month) even without a membership in most states. Prices are very stable and often beat GoodRx at many locations. Call your local warehouse pharmacy for a current quote.
Are there any legitimate ways to get Trulicity cheaper than $800 per month without insurance?
Occasional promotions through discount cards or pharmacies can dip below $800 briefly, but $800–$950 is the realistic sustained cash-pay range in 2025–2026. Samples from your doctor can provide free pens for a few months while you arrange long-term savings.
Will moving to a higher dose of Trulicity increase my monthly cost without insurance?
No—the cash price per carton is the same for all strengths. Switching from 1.5 mg to 3.0 mg or 4.5 mg does not raise the monthly out-of-pocket amount when paying cash.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.