Weight loss medications have been a game-changer in treating people with obesity, but their high price tag has put them out of reach for many Americans. Now, Eli Lilly is looking to lower that cost a little. The company, which makes treatments like Mounjaro and Zepbound, just announced that it has launched single-dose vials of the latter. As a result, Zepbound will be available at nearly half of its regular price.
This weight loss medication may be more effective for women. In preliminary analysis presented on September 12 at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, research showed that women lost 25 percent of their initial body weight when treated with tirzepatide. (Zepbound is one of the medication’s brand names.) Men, meanwhile, lost 19 percent of their body weight. This is a significant finding that could have a major impact on the weight loss industry.
Meet the expert: Mir Ali, MD, a board-certified bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. Dr. Ali explains that while the new version of Zepbound still contains tirzepatide, the delivery method has changed. The classic Zepbound was given with an auto-injector that patients could use at home. The new form of Zepbound is sold as a vial that needs to be administered with a syringe. Dr. Ali reassures patients that using a syringe is not difficult and is a common practice for many individuals, including diabetics.
Are Zepbound, Mounjaro, and Ozempic the same? While Zepbound and Mounjaro are both brand names for tirzepatide, Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide, which is a different medication. Research has indicated that people tend to lose more weight on tirzepatide compared to semaglutide. It is essential for individuals to understand the distinctions between these medications before starting a weight loss regimen.
The cost of Zepbound varies depending on the dose. A four-week supply of 2.5 milligrams of Zepbound costs $399, while the 5 milligram dose is priced at $549. These prices are significantly lower than the regular cost of Zepbound, making the medication more accessible to those in need. Eli Lilly has expanded their savings program to include individuals who are not eligible for other assistance programs, such as Medicare recipients. This move aims to make Zepbound more affordable for a larger population.
Is Zepbound better for women than men? Initial research suggests that women may benefit more from tirzepatide than men. Data presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes showed that women experienced a 25 percent reduction in their initial body weight, compared to a 19 percent reduction in men. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to note that the research has not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal. Further studies are needed to fully understand the potential gender differences in the effectiveness of Zepbound.
How do I get Zepbound? To obtain Zepbound, individuals must have a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Patients can purchase the vials directly from LillyDirect, a self-pay pharmacy established by Eli Lilly. Additionally, patients will have access to supplies such as syringes and needles, along with instructions on how to administer the medication correctly. The decision to release single-use vials was prompted by concerns over counterfeit versions of Zepbound circulating in the market. By providing a safer and more reliable option, Eli Lilly aims to protect patients from potential harm.
In conclusion, the introduction of single-dose vials of Zepbound by Eli Lilly marks a significant advancement in the field of weight loss medications. The reduced cost and potential effectiveness for women make this medication a promising option for individuals struggling with obesity or overweight. As more research is conducted and additional data becomes available, Zepbound may prove to be a valuable tool in the fight against obesity. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine if Zepbound is the right choice for their weight loss journey.
