GLP-1 Access Expands as Xevant Launches Lower-Cost Employer Program

NEW YORK, NY – November 20, 2025

The Rising Cost of Care & A New Approach

Employer-sponsored health plans are facing unprecedented financial pressure, driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and the cost of innovative, yet expensive, medications. Now, a growing number of companies are turning to GLP-1 receptor agonists, originally developed for diabetes, for their weight-loss benefits, further straining budgets. Xevant, a pharmacy benefits intelligence company, is attempting to address this challenge with Ivim at Work, a program designed to lower the cost of these medications – Wegovy and Ozempic – for employees while delivering clinical support and measurable returns on investment.

The company recently announced pricing of $199 per month for the initial two doses and $349 per month for continued therapy through the program, a move that positions it directly against rapidly increasing healthcare expenditures. “Employers are desperately seeking solutions to manage pharmacy costs without sacrificing employee health,” says one benefits consultant, who asked to remain anonymous. “The GLP-1 class of drugs presents a unique challenge – high efficacy combined with a very high price tag.”

AI-Powered Cost Optimization & The VerX Platform

Central to Xevant’s strategy is the VerX platform, an AI-powered system designed to identify the lowest-cost pharmacy options for prescription fulfillment. Rather than relying on a single PBM, VerX integrates with multiple providers, routing claims to the most cost-effective source. This approach goes beyond simply negotiating rebates; it aims to optimize the entire prescription fulfillment process.

“The traditional PBM model lacks transparency, making it difficult for employers to understand where their money is going,” explains a technology analyst specializing in healthcare IT. “AI-driven platforms like VerX have the potential to disrupt this model by providing real-time cost comparison and intelligent routing.” The company claims that VerX not only lowers acquisition costs but also streamlines administrative processes, further reducing overall expenses. One employer using VerX described it as a “game-changer” when it comes to managing pharmacy spend. “The platform provides visibility into our costs that we never had before,” they say. “It’s allowed us to make data-driven decisions about our pharmacy benefits.”

Navigating a Complex Market: Accessibility & Competition

The price point of Ivim at Work is highly competitive, mirroring recent promotional offers directly from manufacturers like Novo Nordisk and initiatives from discount platforms like GoodRx. This aggressive pricing strategy aims to expand access to these medications for individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford them. However, accessibility remains a complex issue. While lower prices are a step in the right direction, broader factors, such as insurance coverage, prior authorization requirements, and physician acceptance, also play a crucial role.

Competition in the GLP-1 market is intensifying, with Eli Lilly’s Zepbound now vying for market share alongside Wegovy and Ozempic. This increased competition could drive prices down further, benefiting both employers and employees. “The market is evolving rapidly,” notes a pharmaceutical market analyst. “Manufacturers are responding to pressure from payers and consumers by offering lower prices and expanding access programs.” Beyond direct competition between drugs, other weight management programs like Calibrate and Found also present alternatives, often combining medication with lifestyle coaching and support. These integrated programs offer a more holistic approach to weight loss but may come with a higher overall cost.

As employers weigh their options, the focus is shifting from simply covering GLP-1 medications to managing their use effectively. Utilization management strategies, such as prior authorization requirements and BMI thresholds, are becoming increasingly common. However, striking a balance between cost control and patient access remains a challenge. “Employers want to ensure that their employees have access to the medications they need, but they also need to be responsible stewards of their healthcare dollars,” explains a benefits manager. “It’s a difficult balancing act.”