Good day, everyone! We hope you are all well despite the rainy weather. Remember, each day is a gift waiting to be unwrapped. As we take a short break for the upcoming holiday, let’s dive into some interesting updates to keep you informed.
The Biden administration is pushing for an expansion in Medicare and Medicaid coverage for weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, according to STAT. Currently, these drugs are covered for treating diabetes and heart disease, but not specifically for obesity due to legal restrictions. A proposed bill in Congress to extend coverage has been stalled for years. The White House estimates that the new proposal could benefit 3.4 million older adults in Medicare and 4 million people in Medicaid, reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly.
In other news, a mid-stage study of Amgen’s obesity drug, MariTide, showed promising results with participants experiencing significant weight loss. Despite the positive outcome, Amgen’s shares fell as questions arose about the drug’s competitiveness in the market. The drug led to an average of 20% weight loss in participants without type 2 diabetes and 17% in those with the condition. Analysts had high expectations for MariTide, expecting it to outperform other weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound.
These developments in the obesity drug landscape highlight the ongoing efforts to address weight management issues and improve access to effective treatments. As research continues and new drugs are introduced, patients may have more options to support their weight loss journeys.
Stay tuned for more updates in the pharmaceutical industry as we strive to bring you the latest news and insights. Remember, health is wealth, so take care of yourself and stay informed. See you next time!
