TRICARE Weight Loss Drug Coverage Changes
The rules for certain weight loss medications provided under TRICARE plans are changing, and some patients may find their previous authorizations are no longer valid at the end of August 2025.
Weight Loss Drug Policy Changes Under TRICARE Coming
A TRICARE press release on these changes asks, “Are you a TRICARE beneficiary taking a drug for weight loss”, including GLP-1 medications, “like Zepbound or Wegovy? Do you have questions about what’s covered—and why?”
According to TRICARE officials, more patients are taking such medications than ever at press time, and coverage for these treatments is dependent on the patient’s status, medical condition, and other factors.
TRICARE announced the Defense Health Agency “is implementing regulatory controls on weight loss medication coverage,” with new rules going into effect at the end of August 2025 that change authorization for GLP-1 treatment.
“If you have TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select, these medications are still covered in certain circumstances. Otherwise, if you have an approved prior authorization for weight loss drugs, it’s no longer valid. You’ll need to see your provider to discuss your options.”
Important to Check TRICARE Coverage: Changes Coming August 2025
If you have been prescribed these medications or are considering them, it’s important to check your TRICARE coverage to see whether you’ll be approved for these prescriptions after August 31, 2025.
If you aren’t covered going forward, ask your care provider about alternatives, which may include medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes depending on circumstances.
TRICARE claims those affected will receive notice by U.S. mail, but if you have not been notified, contact TRICARE immediately.
Which Weight Loss Medications Are Affected
TRICARE covers the following weight loss medications, according to the official site:
- Saxenda
- Wegovy
- Zepbound
- Qsymia
- Phentermine
- Contrave
These medications are covered for weight loss if the patient is enrolled in TRICARE Prime or TRICARE Select.
Those who qualify for these benefits from a premium-based plan may also be prescribed the medications listed above. Those TRICARE premium-based plans include:
- TRICARE Young Adult
- TRICARE Reserve Select
- TRICARE Retired Reserve
- Continued Health Care Benefit Program
TRICARE also covers the following medication to treat Type 2 Diabetes. According to the official site, coverage requires prior authorization.
- Trulicity
- Ozempic
- Mounjaro
- Victoza
“Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Victoza require medical necessity forms for a formulary copayment and coverage at a military pharmacy,” and there are certain exclusions, including those who have TRICARE For Life or direct care only access.
TRICARE makes an exception for GLP-1s used to treat diabetes. These drugs “continue to be covered for all patients with a diagnosis of diabetes when medically necessary and when prior authorization requirements are met.” No changes have been made to the cost-sharing features of this healthcare coverage.
What to Know About TRICARE Weight Loss Drug Coverage
TRICARE covers weight loss medications when the patient meets the right conditions, including medical necessity.
Some patients won’t be able to continue getting weight loss prescriptions under TRICARE after the changes have been implemented. It’s best to work out a new healthcare plan with your primary care provider as early as possible if you are losing access to a treatment you are currently on.
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About the author
Editor-in-Chief Joe Wallace is a 13-year veteran of the United States Air Force and a former reporter/editor for Air Force Television News and the Pentagon Channel. His freelance work includes contract work for Motorola, VALoans.com, and Credit Karma. He is co-founder of Dim Art House in Springfield, Illinois, and spends his non-writing time as an abstract painter, independent publisher, and occasional filmmaker.
