INDIANAPOLIS – A massive shakeup in the healthcare market is coming to Indiana in 2026, and it’s aimed directly at the nearly 38% of Hoosier adults living with obesity.
The launch of the federal “TrumpRx” initiative marks a turning point for high-demand GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. The program promises to slash prices and expand coverage for drugs that, until now, remained financially out of reach for many.
To help navigate the new landscape, we spoke with spoke with Dr. Rickin Shah, an obesity medicine expert and co-owner of Pure Regenerative Medicine.
What is TrumpRx?
The initiative is a multi-track plan to lower the “list price” of life-altering medications. By striking deals with manufacturers—including Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly—the program bypasses insurance “middlemen” to pass savings to the patient.
“Normally, these drugs can be upwards of $1,000 at the pharmacy today,” Dr. Shah says. “This is actually pretty exciting; it’s going to be very, very attainable for most Hoosiers.”
The Cost Breakdown
Starting early in the new year, the price for these medications is expected to shift:
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Medicare/Medicaid: For the first time, Medicare will cover these drugs for obesity treatment, with monthly co-pays potentially as low as $50.
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Cash-Pay: Patients paying out-of-pocket can buy directly via TrumpRx.gov for approximately $350 a month, down from the $1,000+ retail price.
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Oral Options: If the FDA approves upcoming “pill” versions, the price could drop as low as $150 a month.
Safety First
While the lower price point is a breakthrough, Dr. Shah warns that these aren’t “magic pills” and require professional oversight. He specifically cautioned against unregulated online “quick-fix” sites.
“A lot of those avenues are not well-regulated… they aren’t telling people exactly how to use the medication,” Shah said. “While access is exciting, people still need to be safe. It still needs to be physician-directed care.”
How to Prepare
For Hoosiers looking to start treatment, Dr. Shah recommends a three-step approach:
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See a Doctor: You still need a valid prescription to access TrumpRx pricing.
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Look Beyond the Scale: Focus on body fat percentage rather than just BMI to ensure you aren’t losing muscle mass.
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Prioritize Lifestyle: Medication works best when paired with tracked protein intake and exercise.
“We want to be healthier before we get sick,” Dr. Shah said. “That’s really what we focus on.”
For more information on eligibility, residents can visit TrumpRx.gov or consult their primary care physician.
