Lilly lowers price of Zepbound vials, launches new doses

Eli Lilly Expands Zepbound Offerings and Reduces Prices for Self-Pay Patients

Eli Lilly has announced significant changes to its weight-loss drug Zepbound (tirzepatide), including price reductions for existing doses and the introduction of new dosage options1 3 5.

Key Updates

- New Dosage Options:
Lilly launched 7.5 mg and 10 mg single-dose vials of Zepbound1 2.

- Price Reductions:

* - 2.5 mg vial:*
Lowered from $399 to $349 per month

* - 5 mg vial:*
Reduced from $549 to $499 per month1 5

- Zepbound Self Pay Journey Program:

Offers 7.5 mg and 10 mg vials for $499 per month
Available for first fill and refills within 45 days of prior delivery2 6

Availability and Access

These new offerings are exclusively available through LillyDirect Self Pay Pharmacy Solutions, which aims to provide transparent pricing by removing third-party supply chain entities1 6. The program allows patients to access savings directly outside of insurance.

Impact and Rationale

Lilly's move comes in response to several factors:

1. Affordability Concerns:
The price adjustments aim to improve access for self-pay patients5.

2. Competition:
The changes may help Lilly compete with cheaper, compounded versions of weight-loss drugs3.

3. Market Performance:
Zepbound's fourth-quarter sales missed analysts' expectations1.

4. Healthcare System Challenges:
Lilly acknowledges the lack of systematic coverage for obesity treatment by insurance and federal programs6.

Industry Response

Joe Nadglowski, president and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition, praised Lilly's efforts to improve affordability but noted that there is still progress to be made in building a comprehensive healthcare system for obesity treatment5 6.

Lilly remains committed to working with all parties to address the broader issues of obesity care coverage and affordability while continuing to improve access to Zepbound for out-of-pocket payers6.