FDA Approves Eli Lilly's Mounjaro (Zepbound) for Obesity and Weight Loss

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Eli Lilly's type 2 diabetes drug tirzepatide, known as Mounjaro, for chronic weight management under the new name Zepbound. Clinical trials showed that Zepbound resulted in over 20% average weight loss on higher doses over 72 weeks, surpassing the efficacy of other approved weight loss medicines. The drug is recommended for individuals with obesity or those who are overweight with at least one weight-related health condition. Zepbound is taken as a weekly injection alongside a reduced calorie diet and increased exercise. The main side effects include gastrointestinal issues, and the drug will be available for approximately $1,060 per month before insurance. Lilly Diabetes and Obesity stated that Zepbound costs 20% less than semaglutide, another weight loss drug. However, insurance coverage for these medications remains uncertain, and Medicare and Medicaid are currently prohibited from covering obesity medications.