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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Health officials are investigating a potential link between weight loss and diabetes injections (GLP-1 medicines) and an increase in reports of acute pancreatitis. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has received nearly 400 reports of acute pancreatitis associated with medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and liraglutide, with nearly half involving Mounjaro. Due to the severity of the disease and increased usage of these medicines, the MHRA is launching a study, including genetic testing, to explore potential factors. Both the MHRA and drug manufacturers emphasize the importance of reporting adverse events and the need for healthcare professionals to monitor patients closely.
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Elon Musk’s Christmas “Ozempic Santa” post revealed his use of the weight-loss drug Mounjaro, sparking further debate on GLP-1 inhibitors. This follows a recent disagreement with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump’s HHS appointee, over the cost-effectiveness of widespread GLP-1 inhibitor use versus promoting healthier lifestyles to combat obesity. Musk advocates for making these drugs affordable, contrasting Kennedy’s initial focus on dietary changes. Musk’s public endorsement, however, adds another layer to the ongoing discussion surrounding obesity treatment in America.
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Due to resolved shortages of Eli Lilly’s weight-loss and diabetes medications, Zepbound and Mounjaro, the FDA has ordered a phase-out of copycat versions sold by specialty and online pharmacies. This decision, effective within 60-90 days, benefits Lilly and potentially impacts patient access and costs. The FDA cited improved supply and safety concerns regarding the compounded drugs as reasons for the action. This reversal follows an earlier decision that was met with public opposition and legal challenge.
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John Q. Hosedrinker