Indianapolis, Indiana – Eli Lilly, a pharmaceutical company based in Indianapolis, released a new form of its weight loss drug Zepbound on Tuesday at a reduced price to increase accessibility for patients. The lower cost of the drug is aimed at reaching millions of patients who do not have insurance coverage for the injection, particularly those with Medicare. This move is part of an effort to meet the rising demand for Zepbound in the United States and ensure that eligible patients can access the genuine treatment as cheaper alternatives become more prevalent.
The new formulation of Zepbound is available in 2.5-milligram and 5-milligram single-dose vials priced at $399 and $549 per month, respectively. The drug belongs to the GLP-1 class of medications, which mimic gut hormones to reduce appetite and regulate blood sugar. By offering the drug at a more affordable price point, Eli Lilly seeks to support patients who may need to pay out-of-pocket for their obesity treatment or are enrolled in healthcare plans that do not cover such medications.
Patients using the single-dose vials will need to administer the drug using a syringe and needle, unlike the current autoinjector pens available for Zepbound. The company anticipates that the vials will help increase supply capacity as they are easier to manufacture compared to the pens. Additionally, Eli Lilly has established a new “self-pay pharmacy” section on its website, LillyDirect, in collaboration with a digital pharmacy called Gifthealth, to streamline the process of purchasing and distributing the drug to eligible patients.
In response to concerns about counterfeit versions of Zepbound and other drugs, Eli Lilly is taking steps to ensure that patients and healthcare providers receive authentic medications. The company’s efforts to combat fraudulent products include partnering with third-party online pharmacies and implementing measures to safeguard the integrity of their products. As part of this initiative, Eli Lilly is leveraging technology to improve access to FDA-approved medications and deter the proliferation of illicit substances in the market.
Overall, the introduction of the new, more affordable version of Zepbound reflects Eli Lilly’s commitment to making essential medications accessible to a wider population. By addressing pricing concerns and streamlining the distribution process, the company aims to support patients in need of effective weight loss treatments. The initiative also underscores the pharmaceutical industry’s ongoing efforts to combat counterfeit drugs and ensure the safety and efficacy of medications available to consumers.