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Eli Lilly Partners with Ro to Sell Cash-Pay Zepbound, Targeting Compounded GLP-1 'Copycats'

Dec 11, 2024, 03:45 PM

Eli Lilly has announced a partnership with telehealth company Ro to distribute cash-pay vials of its obesity drug Zepbound, expanding access to the medication through online prescriptions. This strategic move comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of compounded GLP-1 drugs, which Lilly has been harshly critical of, labeling them as legal copycats that pose safety risks and infringe on intellectual property. Ro, which previously offered compounded versions of GLP-1 medications, will now provide patients with authorized access to Lilly's Zepbound, integrating with LillyDirect. The collaboration aims to combat the rise of unauthorized compounded drugs by offering a legitimate, branded alternative directly to consumers. New data from Eli Lilly indicates that patients using Zepbound experienced greater weight loss over 72 weeks compared to those taking Novo Nordisk's competing product, Wegovy, highlighting the intensifying competition in GLP-1 therapies. The high cost of GLP-1 medications like Zepbound has sparked discussions about health equity and access. Former Surgeon General Jerome Adams highlighted that while affluent populations can afford these "miracle drugs," poorer and minority groups are often left without access, underscoring ongoing health inequities. With over 40% of Americans suffering from obesity, the need for accessible treatments is pressing. As the market evolves, increased competition and strategic partnerships are expected to drive prices down, potentially making these treatments more accessible to those who need them most.