Eli Lilly & Co. has announced the release of a more affordable option for its popular weight-loss medication, Zepbound, which now comes in single-dose vials. This new format aims to address the ongoing high demand for the drug, as it continues to be a leading treatment for obesity. Some compounding pharmacies and clinics have been marketing what they claim to be versions of GLP-1 weight-loss medications like Zepbound or its competitors. However, this practice has raised significant concerns about legitimacy and safety.
New Single-Dose Vials
The active ingredient in Zepbound, tirzepatide, has been making waves in the medical community due to its effectiveness in treating obesity. Previously available only in preloaded injector pens, Zepbound can now be administered using a traditional syringe, a move that is expected to significantly increase its availability.
Patrik Jonsson, Lilly’s president of cardiometabolic health, said in a press release these new vials are a direct response to the overwhelming demand for the medication. “These new vials not only help us meet the high demand for our obesity medicine, but also broaden access for patients seeking a safe and effective treatment option,” said Jonsson. “In a clinical study, the 5mg maintenance dose helped patients achieve an average of 15 percent weight loss after 72 weeks of treatment and has been a powerful tool for millions of people with obesity looking to lose weight and keep it off.”
Available at LillyDirect
The vials are available exclusively through LillyDirect, Eli Lilly’s platform that coordinates telehealth services and prescription fulfillment. The pricing for a four-week supply starts at $399 for 2.5-milligram vials and $529 for 5-milligram vials. These prices align with those offered through Lilly’s savings program for uninsured patients, but now the vials provide an out-of-pocket option for a wider range of patients, including those on Medicare who might not qualify for other savings programs.
“This is such a competitive price that I believe this will prevent the majority of patients from switching to compounded medication to avoid a $1,300 per month expense,” says New York endocrinologist and founder of Well By Messer, Caroline Messer, MD. “I think it is brilliant for a pharmaceutical company to cut out pharmacies and pharmacy benefit managers.”
When Insurance Falls Short
Despite obesity being recognized as a chronic illness, it is often misclassified as a lifestyle choice, leading to limited insurance coverage for medications like Zepbound. New York endocrinologist Rocio Salas-Whalen, MD highlights the benefits of the vials for patients like this. “The vials are a great option for patients who don’t have commercial insurance or whose insurance doesn’t cover weight loss medications. Although vials require more patient involvement, such as learning to draw from the vial and inject with a syringe, they are still less expensive than the pens with the manufacturer coupon.”
Jonsson adds that its time for more innovative solutions and policies that align with the current understanding of obesity as a serious health condition. “By offering single-dose vials, we are taking a step towards better access and management of this chronic condition,” he says.
