Eli Lilly Reduces Zepbound Prices to Enhance Accessibility

Eli Lilly has announced a significant reduction in the prices of its obesity treatment, Zepbound, aiming to increase accessibility for U.S. patients. As of March 2024, the monthly cost for a single-dose vial of Zepbound at 2.5 mg has decreased to $299, down from $349. The five mg dose now costs $399, reduced from $499, while higher doses will be available for $449 per month through Lilly’s Zepbound Self Pay Journey Program.

This price adjustment follows a similar reduction in the cost of Zepbound multi-dose pens, which are currently awaiting approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. According to Ilya Yuffa, an executive at Eli Lilly, “Far too many people who need obesity treatments still face cost and coverage barriers.” The company’s efforts reflect a growing demand for weight-loss therapies, which has significantly boosted its market presence.

Lilly’s stock has surged by more than 39 percent this year, driven by the booming obesity drug market. Last month, the company achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first drugmaker to reach a market capitalization of $1 trillion, joining a select group of companies previously dominated by technology giants.

Zepbound, which contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, is approved for adults with obesity or overweight conditions, as well as those suffering from moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. This medication has rapidly ascended to become the world’s best-selling drug, surpassing Merck’s cancer drug, Keytruda.

The price cuts are particularly notable as they coincide with a broader trend towards affordability in the healthcare sector. In November, Eli Lilly reached an agreement with the administration of former President Donald Trump to reduce prices of its GLP-1 drugs under Medicare and Medicaid programs, making these treatments more accessible to cash payers as well.

As the demand for effective weight-loss medications continues to grow, Eli Lilly’s strategic pricing decisions are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of obesity treatment in the United States and beyond.