After FDA Approval, Zepbound Available in US Pharmacies for Battling Obesity

Eli Lilly's obesity drug, Zepbound™, is now available in U.S. pharmacies following FDA approval. This innovative treatment offers hope for adults with obesity or overweight and weight-related health issues. Affordability programs make it accessible, with prices as low as $25 for some insured individuals.

Eli Lilly and Company announced that Zepbound (tirzepatide), an injectable obesity drug, is now available in U.S. pharmacies. Following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, people living with obesity can access Zepbound in six doses through a prescription that can be filled at retail and mail-order pharmacies.

Rhonda Pacheco, Group Vice President of Lilly Diabetes and Obesity, U.S., expressed optimism about this development, remarked, 

"Today opens another chapter for adults living with obesity who have been looking for a new treatment option like Zepbound. The availability of Zepbound in U.S. pharmacies is the first step, but we have to work hand-in-hand with employers, government and healthcare industry partners to remove barriers and make Zepbound available to those who need it."

Who Can Benefit from Zepbound?

Zepbound is specifically indicated for adults grappling with obesity, defined as individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater. It also extends its benefits to those who are overweight, with a BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater, and who face weight-related medical problems such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease.

Crucially, Zepbound is not a standalone solution but is intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. This holistic approach is consistent with modern medical thinking on obesity management.

However, it's important to note that Zepbound should not be used in combination with other tirzepatide-containing products or any GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist medicines. Furthermore, it has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis or those with severe gastrointestinal disease, including severe gastroparesis.

Availability and Access

The availability of Zepbound™ in U.S. pharmacies marks a significant step forward in addressing the obesity epidemic. It comes after the FDA's approval and individuals can now access the medication in six different doses, ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg, through a prescription that can be filled at both retail and mail-order pharmacies.