Eli Lilly cuts cash prices of Zepbound weight loss drug vials on direct-to-consumer site

Core Insights - Eli Lilly is reducing the cash prices of its weight loss drug Zepbound on its direct-to-consumer platform, LillyDirect, to enhance accessibility for patients [1][4] - The price reduction follows a similar move by rival Novo Nordisk, which has also lowered prices for its obesity and diabetes medications [1][7] Pricing Details - Starting Monday, cash-paying patients can obtain the initial dose of Zepbound for $299 per month, down from $349, with subsequent doses priced at $399 and $449, respectively [2] - The list price of Zepbound is approximately $1,086 per month, which has been a barrier for many patients due to limited insurance coverage for weight loss drugs in the U.S. [3] Government Initiatives - The announcement aligns with recent agreements made by the Trump administration to make GLP-1 drugs more affordable and accessible, including Medicare coverage for obesity drugs for certain patients [4] - Eli Lilly's collaboration with the Trump administration focuses on reducing prices for a multi-dose pen version of Zepbound, which is pending FDA approval [5] Market Context - Direct-to-consumer sales of Zepbound account for over a third of new prescriptions, indicating a significant market presence [7] - Novo Nordisk has also reduced the prices of its drugs Wegovy and Ozempic for cash-paying patients, reflecting competitive pricing strategies in the obesity treatment market [7][8]