Eli Lilly CEO says 700,000 new seniors have started GLP-1s after Medicare coverage, and 70% are on Lilly drugs
They're the latest metrics on how much the new Medicare coverage is expanding access to GLP-1 medicines since it launched in July.
TL;DR
- 700,000 new seniors have started GLP-1 treatments since Medicare coverage for obesity drugs began in July.
- 70% of these new patients are using Eli Lilly's medications.
- Eli Lilly CEO Dave Ricks called the coverage rollout "very encouraging."
- The "Bridge" program allows eligible Medicare beneficiaries to obtain weight loss drugs for a $50 monthly co-pay.
- Lilly's Zepbound and Foundayo are gaining significant traction, with Zepbound being favored for patients with higher body weight and complications.
- Foundayo, Lilly's oral GLP-1, is taken by one-third of new patients on oral GLP-1s and is suitable for those needing to lose 25-30 pounds.
- The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services are credited with a smooth rollout.