Medicare Begins Pilot Program for Low Cost GLP- 1s

Millions of older Americans could soon pay less for popular GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

Last week, Medicare launched a pilot program that allows eligible people in certain Medicare plans to access medications such as Wegovy® and Zepbound® for about $50 a month.

Until now, Medicare generally covered these medications only for specific medical conditions, such as heart disease or sleep apnea.

The new program expands access for many people living with obesity and is expected to run through the end of next year.

For people who have been paying hundreds of dollars out of pocket each month, this could be a significant change.

In Canada, coverage varies by province and insurance plan, so Canadian readers should check with their provincial drug program or private insurer.

GLP-1 medications can be an effective tool for weight loss. When combined with regular exercise and healthy lifestyle habits, some people may lose as much as 20% of their body weight.

But here’s an important piece of the conversation that often gets overlooked: some of that weight loss can come from muscle and bone—not just body fat.

That’s why strength training should be part of the plan.

As we age, maintaining muscle becomes even more important for staying active, improving mobility, supporting bone health, enhancing balance, and maintaining the independence to keep doing the things we love.

Strength training—whether it’s lifting weights, using resistance machines, or performing bodyweight exercises—helps preserve muscle, protect bone health, improve balance, and reduce the risk of falls.

Pairing it with adequate protein intake also helps support muscle maintenance and recovery.

If you’re considering a GLP-1 medication, start by talking with your healthcare provider to determine whether it’s right for you. And if you do take one, don’t overlook the importance of strength training.

At YPB Training Studio, we believe the goal isn’t just losing weight—it’s building the strength, mobility, and confidence to live an active, independent life for years to come.

Ready to build strength, improve mobility, and stay active for the things you love?

👉 Learn more about our 21-Day Mobility & Strength Program:
https://go.ypbtrainingstudio.com/21-day-mobility-and-strength-program