Eli Lilly's Zepbound: A Breakthrough in Weight Loss Medication
Eli Lilly's newest offering, Zepbound, is set to revolutionize the weight loss medication market as the latest approved drug promising unprecedented effectiveness. Zepbound, which is anticipated to be available soon after Thanksgiving, is part of a burgeoning class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists, which have seen a surge in popularity across the United States.
This injectable medication is designed for individuals without diabetes but are at risk of health issues due to excess weight. In its clinical trials, Zepbound facilitated an average weight loss of 52 pounds, closely mirroring results typically associated with bariatric surgery.
Zepbound's active ingredient, tirzepatide, curbs food cravings by emulating a hormone that signals fullness. It further mimics another hormone, GIP, enhancing the body's breakdown of sugar and fat, which contributes to significant weight loss. The highest trial dose led to an average weight loss of 22.5% body weight, roughly 52 pounds, in participants with obesity or weight-related conditions.
Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Zepbound is indicated for adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or 27 or more if accompanied by a weight-related condition like high blood pressure or heart disease. It is to be used in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet and increased physical activity.
Zepbound is not recommended for use with other GLP-1 agonists, and it is approved for adults 18 and older, unlike Wegovy, which is approved for those 12 and up. The drug's safety and efficacy in adolescents are not yet established.
When choosing between Zepbound and similar treatments like Wegovy, considerations include insurance coverage and individual response to each drug.
The price of Zepbound is set at approximately $1,060 for a month's supply. While this is less expensive than Wegovy, insurance coverage for weight loss medications can be inconsistent, with Medicare not covering them by law. Eli Lilly has introduced copay and discount card programs to make Zepbound more affordable, with potential reductions to as low as $25 for insured patients, or $550 for those without coverage for the drug.
As with all medications, Zepbound comes with potential side effects, mostly gastrointestinal in nature, which tend to subside with continued use. The FDA advises monitoring patients for depression or suicidal ideation and discontinuing use if symptoms develop. Although not explicitly stated on the label, some users of similar medications have reported gastroparesis as a side effect.
Zepbound is slated to hit the U.S. market shortly after Thanksgiving, with its initial availability and subsequent supply expected to rise throughout 2024. As demand is predicted to be high, potential shortages are a consideration for those eager to access this new treatment option.