Eli Lilly and Company has introduced a new version of its popular weight loss medication, Zepbound, at significantly reduced prices—approximately 50% less than existing options. The new single-dose vials, available in 2.5 mg and 5 mg, can be accessed via LillyDirect, the company’s telehealth platform.
The cost for a month’s supply of the 2.5 mg dose will be $399, translating to about $99 per vial, while the 5 mg dose will be priced at $549. This is a stark contrast to the current injectable version of Zepbound, which costs about $1,000 per month.
Patrik Jonsson, the Executive Vice President and President of Lilly Cardiometabolic Health and Lilly USA, stated that the introduction of these single-dose vials is part of a strategy to enhance the availability of Zepbound amidst ongoing drug shortages. He emphasized that the new pricing aims to broaden access for patients looking for a safe and effective treatment option.
The 50% price reduction is particularly significant for many individuals who have resorted to seeking cheaper, compounded, and unverified versions of GLP-1 drugs from competitors, like Novo Nordisk. Social media platforms, including TikTok, have seen users discussing their searches for alternative versions of these medications due to either shortages or prohibitive costs.
James Zervos, the chief operating officer of Obesity Action Coalition, expressed optimism about Lilly’s move, noting that improved access to affordable weight loss medications is crucial for those living with obesity. He encouraged other stakeholders in the healthcare industry to adopt similar strategies to enhance access to weight loss treatments.
Industry experts believe that Lilly’s pricing strategy may also be a response to the rise of telehealth companies and unlicensed clinics offering cheaper alternatives. Lilly has been clear in its intentions, highlighting that the new vial options through LillyDirect are designed to ensure patients can trust the authenticity of the medications they receive.
The company pointed out that this self-pay model creates transparency in pricing by eliminating third-party supply chain intermediaries, ultimately allowing patients to receive savings directly, outside of their insurance plans. However, these vials will only be available to patients who possess prescriptions from licensed physicians.