Eli Lilly Introduces Affordable High-Dose Zepbound Vials to Enhance Access to Weight Loss Solutions

In New York City, Eli Lilly showcased its weight loss drug, Zepbound, on December 11, 2023. Recently, the company has introduced higher doses of Zepbound in single-dose vials. They are doing this at prices that are significantly lower than before, aiming to help patients without insurance coverage, including those on Medicare.

Eli Lilly wants to increase the availability of Zepbound as demand continues to rise. They want to ensure that patients are using the actual medication instead of cheaper, unregulated alternatives. Patients can now purchase the higher doses directly from Lilly’s website, LillyDirect, which started offering lower doses in vials in August.

The new vials come in 7.5 milligrams and 10 milligrams, costing $499 for the first prescription or refills within 45 days. After that period, the prices rise to $599 and $699, respectively. Additionally, the company has lowered the price of the lower-dose vials by $50. The 2.5-milligram vial is now $349, while the 5-milligram vial is $499.

To use the vials, patients need to draw the medication into a syringe and inject it themselves, which is different from the easy-to-use autoinjector pens currently available. These pens allow a simple injection at the press of a button. Eli Lilly points out that vials are easier to produce, potentially increasing supply as the autoinjectors are costly to make.

Patients usually start with a 2.5-milligram dose for four weeks, gradually increasing to higher doses to maintain weight loss. However, the highest doses, 12.5 milligrams and 15 milligrams, are not yet offered in vial form.

This pricing change aims to help patients paying out of pocket, particularly those on Medicare or those whose employer-sponsored plans don’t cover obesity treatments. Eli Lilly’s president of diabetes and obesity, Patrik Jonsson, noted the challenge many face without full coverage for obesity, which is increasingly recognized as a chronic condition.

While many have resorted to cheaper alternatives from compounding pharmacies due to the high cost and earlier shortages of Zepbound, the FDA has recently confirmed that the shortage is over. As a result, compounding pharmacies will soon be unable to produce these copies. Jonsson emphasized that Eli Lilly’s new pricing aims to ensure patients do not turn to unapproved alternatives lacking FDA oversight.

Since launching this new service, Eli Lilly has seen encouraging interest in its vials but did not disclose specific numbers. Approximately 10% of new patients starting treatment for obesity are now using Zepbound through LillyDirect’s self-pay pharmacy. This online platform connects patients with telehealth services for prescriptions, with home delivery options also available.

Overall, Eli Lilly’s efforts harmonize accessibility and affordability for patients seeking effective weight loss solutions, while emphasizing the importance of using approved medications.

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