Does Cigna cover Saxenda?
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Under Cigna policy IP0621, brand Saxenda is approved only after trying generic liraglutide, unless an inactive-ingredient difference would cause a serious reaction. The first approval lasts 4 months and renewal requires at least 4% weight loss.
What Cigna specifically requires
- Tried generic liraglutide first (brand Saxenda only for a documented inactive-ingredient reaction)
- At least 3 months of behavioral modification and dietary restriction
- First approval: 4 months
- Renewal: at least 4% loss from baseline; renewed for 1 year
Sources: Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32) (Apr 30, 2026)
About Cigna coverage
- Cigna publishes separate GLP-1 weight-loss policies by BMI floor: IP0621 (BMI 32, or 27 with two weight-related conditions) and IP0739 (BMI 35). Which one applies depends on your plan. Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32), Apr 30, 2026
- IP0621 plans also require enrollment with Cigna's lifestyle vendor, with 4 weigh-ins and 4 app engagements per month. Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32), Apr 30, 2026
- Cigna states that the BMI thresholds in IP0621 are not based on clinical data and are set to let a subset of patients obtain these drugs. Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32), Apr 30, 2026
- Brand Saxenda requires a trial of generic liraglutide first under IP0621. Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32), Apr 30, 2026
- For Zepbound used for sleep apnea, renewal after 1 year requires at least 10% weight loss and stable symptoms (IP0621). Cigna coverage policy IP0621 (Weight Loss GLP-1, BMI ≥ 32), Apr 30, 2026
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Does Cigna cover Saxenda?+
Under Cigna policy IP0621, brand Saxenda is approved only after trying generic liraglutide, unless an inactive-ingredient difference would cause a serious reaction. The first approval lasts 4 months and renewal requires at least 4% weight loss.
Does Cigna require prior authorization for Saxenda?+
Yes. Cigna requires prior authorization for Saxenda. Your prescriber submits the request with the documentation listed in the Cigna criteria on this page.