Eli Lilly just delivered a game-changer for those battling obesity. The pharmaceutical giant announced that single-dose vials of its weight-loss drug, Zepbound, will now be available at a discount of 50% or more.
This announcement means that those who pay for their medications out of pocket can benefit significantly, providing they purchase through the LillyDirect program and have a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. According to company officials, the initiative aims to broaden access to effective weight-loss treatments, ensuring that more individuals can afford these important medications.
Eli Lilly’s new program will offer Zepbound in 2.5 milligram and 5 milligram single-dose vials. A four-week supply of 2.5mg doses is priced at $399, while the 5mg doses will cost $549. These prices represent a significant reduction compared to the list price of other GLP-1 medications for obesity. However, it is important to note that the plan does not include delivery pens or syringes needed for the injections.
Experts in the medical field have lauded this move, emphasizing its potential to meet the high demand for weight-loss drugs. Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon and medical director at MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center, highlights the program’s importance in increasing medication accessibility. James Zervios, COO of the Obesity Action Coalition, also commended Eli Lilly for making strides in affordable obesity treatment options. He noted, “Expanding coverage and affordability of treatments is vital to people living with obesity.”
However, it is essential to understand that this plan is tailored exclusively for self-pay customers. Patrik Jonsson, executive vice president and president of Lilly Cardiometabolic Health, declared that the new vials not only address the high demand but also expand access to safe and effective treatments. “We are excited to share that the Zepbound single-dose vials are now here, further delivering on our promise to increase supply of Zepbound in the U.S.,” Jonsson said in a statement.
Caroline Apovian, MD, a professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, pointed out that while the discount plan is not perfect, it does improve affordability and accessibility. She expressed hope that other pharmaceutical companies might follow suit. Dr. Ali and other experts cautioned against the misuse of Zepbound for cosmetic weight loss and untested alternatives, stressing the necessity of a legitimate prescription.
GLP-1 drugs like Zepbound and Mounjaro contain tirzepatide, an active ingredient that has shown promise in clinical trials. Tirzepatide acts as a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of these drugs in maintaining weight loss and reducing the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. Additionally, Novo Nordisk’s medications, containing semaglutide, have shown significant benefits, including reduced risks of certain health issues and effective weight management.
In summary, Eli Lilly’s decision to slash the prices of Zepbound single-dose vials by 50% or more provides a significant opportunity for self-paying patients to access affordable weight-loss medication. With endorsements from various medical experts and assurances on the efficacy of GLP-1 drugs, this move marks a positive step toward addressing the obesity epidemic.
Source: Healthline