Zepbound (tirzepatide), a GLP-1 weight loss medication, has become more accessible for those paying out-of-pocket with the introduction of a new vial option. Previously available only in prefilled single-dose pens, the medication is now offered in vials along with syringes and needles, providing a cost-effective alternative.
The new starter dose vials of Zepbound are available through the LillyDirect platform for $399 per month, a notable reduction from the $550 cost of the prefilled pens. This move aims to assist adults managing obesity who lack insurance coverage or do not qualify for the Zepbound savings card program.
Dr. Dan Azagury, a bariatric surgeon at Stanford Medicine, views the price reduction positively but notes that it is just one step toward greater accessibility. The production of vials is less complex than that of pens, potentially reducing supply shortages and fostering competition among GLP-1 drug manufacturers, which could drive down prices for similar medications.
Other injectable weight loss medications, such as Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide), typically cost around $1,000 or more per month without insurance.
Challenges of Affording Weight Loss Medications
The high cost of GLP-1 medications remains a significant barrier, with many insurance plans not covering these drugs. For instance, Wegovy is covered by only 1% of Affordable Care Act Marketplace plans, according to KFF, an independent health policy firm. Eli Lilly’s Patrik Jonsson highlights the misclassification of weight loss drugs as lifestyle choices, leading to their exclusion from insurance coverage.
Ongoing Affordability Issues
Despite the reduction in price, Zepbound may still be out of reach for many. Dr. Azagury points out that patients often need higher doses over time, potentially exacerbating affordability issues. Dr. William Yancy Jr. echoes this concern, noting that patients might be forced to discontinue the medication if they cannot afford increased doses.
Concerns Over Compounded Alternatives
Due to cost and availability issues, some individuals have turned to compounded versions of GLP-1 medications, which can be significantly cheaper. However, the FDA has issued warnings about compounded drugs like semaglutide, citing risks from dosing errors and inconsistent product quality. Compounded drugs lack the rigorous premarket review of FDA-approved medications and are advised only when FDA-approved options are not suitable.
How to Obtain the New Zepbound Vials
To purchase the new Zepbound vials, individuals must obtain a valid prescription from their healthcare provider or through telehealth services on the LillyDirect platform. The vials are available for self-pay only, with no insurance coverage applicable. Once prescribed, the vials, along with necessary syringes and needles, will be delivered directly to the purchaser. Detailed usage instructions are provided on the LillyDirect website.
Zepbound remains available in various doses in single-dose pens, with recommended maintenance doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg injected weekly.
