Medicare can now cover certain weight loss drugs in a big step for patients

Medicare can start covering certain weight loss drugs – as long as they are approved in the U.S. for an added health benefit.

The agency's guidance will allow Medicare patients to get coverage for Novo Nordisk's weight loss injection Wegovy as long as it is prescribed to reduce their risk of heart attacks and strokes. Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly's Wegovy, which is now approved in the U.S. for heart health. Those treatments have skyrocketed in demand over the last year despite their hefty price tags and spotty insurance coverage.

The agency's guidance means Medicare patients could soon get coverage for Wegovy, as long as they have obesity and a history of heart disease and are prescribed the treatment to reduce their risk of heart attacks and strokes. Earlier this month, the Food and Drug Administration approved Wegovy for that purpose.

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