By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In response to pressure from the Trump administration, Eli Lilly & Co. has increased prices for its diabetes and anti-obesity drugs, including Mounjaro, in Canada and the UK. The company is aligning prices in these markets to offset potential lower revenue in the United States, where the administration aims to reduce drug costs. Consequently, the wholesale price of Mounjaro has more than doubled in Canada, with the Kwikpen format now costing up to $773 per dose depending on the dosage, which has raised concerns about accessibility. Although Lilly supports the administration’s goal of maintaining the US as a leader in biopharmaceutical research, the company does not support tariffs, which could raise costs and limit patient access.
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Eli Lilly hikes weight-loss drug prices in Canada after pressure from Trump, and the situation is, well, complicated. It’s a bit like watching a slow-motion train wreck of economic policies, political maneuvering, and, let’s be honest, a dash of corporate greed. It’s not surprising that someone would want to hike prices, but the reasoning behind it is pretty fascinating.
The impending expiry of the Canadian patent for another GLP-1 drug, semaglutide, in January 2026, and the expected influx of generic versions, adds a layer of intrigue. While this could have been great for the Canadian consumer, with at least four companies lined up to release generic versions, the price hikes could be seen as an attempt by Eli Lilly to recoup losses. Now, that’s a shrewd business move that’s worth thinking about.
It really makes you wonder about the fundamental understanding of economics, especially when supposed “capitalist Republicans” seemingly misunderstand the very basics. It’s mind-boggling how such a move, from a company that’s supposed to be competitive in a free market, happens. I also wonder if this is part of a larger strategy. The rise of prices across the pond in the UK just adds fuel to the fire.
The potential for the grey market to be flooded with peptides adds another layer of complexity to this story. With generic versions on the horizon, Eli Lilly may be trying to milk the market before it loses its competitive edge. Perhaps an increase in taxes, with the funds going towards the provinces’ healthcare, could have been a more beneficial play. Ultimately, the fallout in Canada might hurt the company more than help it.
Eli Lilly’s actions could be seen as playing right into Trump’s hands. It’s like the company is agreeing to raise prices for the sake of maintaining some semblance of a relationship with the US. It’s a complex web of trade wars and international relations. Other countries may simply choose not to negotiate one-on-one with the US, just waiting for their turn.
It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it seems some leaders see a strategy in aligning with the US, hoping to avoid its wrath. This is a risky game, though. The US can apply pressure and create challenges that would eventually spread across countries. This is a reality, and it could lead to a situation where drug prices in the US remain sky-high, while companies like Eli Lilly are allowed to gouge prices elsewhere.
Let’s face it, American healthcare often looks like an extortion scheme. If you’re sick in the US, expect to pay everything. In such a situation, how is free-market capitalism applicable? It really is unethical, and frankly, it’s just plain greedy. Ethics and regulation often seem to take a backseat. It seems that Trump’s strategy is to ensure that the price gouging in the US continues.
The response from Eli Lilly, if we are to believe it, is almost comical: “With pleasure!” This is where it gets interesting. As the market moves to generic versions, it’s a strategic business move. This could be considered a non-story.
As Canadians are dealing with it now, perhaps it’s time for the government to question the patent and allow generic versions to flood the market. It’s a sad state of affairs when a major pharmaceutical company raises prices seemingly out of spite or pressure. Maybe the company will suffer if it loses a big chunk of sales in Canada.
It is likely that the new generic versions will cut prices in half when they arrive, with a third bringing the price down even further. If true, then the company may not be able to stand its ground. This is more of a political and economic terrorist act.
This whole situation underscores the problems with the pharmaceutical industry. The idea of the US being able to influence drug prices in other countries should not be possible.
Some Canadians are already complaining about the price hikes, with patients paying more for their prescriptions. The company’s actions could even lead to lawsuits.
The news may not be new, as it could be referring to a price increase earlier in the year. This may simply be a case of the company attempting to offset potential losses. The timing may not be great, with many patients struggling to find the money for their prescriptions.
This situation highlights the need for more affordable healthcare options. The industry needs to focus on the health of the people, not on wealth. It’s a shame that some drug plans are no longer covering the cost of these medications, especially when they are more effective and have fewer side effects.
The whole situation really does emphasize the need for change. The pharmaceutical industry should be working for the people, not against them.