Indianapolis-based drug manufacturer Lilly has announced the availability of starter doses of the weight-loss drug Zepbound in single-dose vials, aiming to meet the high demand for the medication. The active ingredient in Zepbound, tirzepatide, is part of a new class of medications used to treat obesity and diabetes that have become increasingly popular. The new vials, available exclusively through LillyDirect for out-of-pocket payment, offer a more affordable option for patients seeking treatment.
The company hopes that the availability of the vials will help expand access to the medication for patients who do not qualify for savings programs, such as those on Medicare. Lilly is advocating for a better system to align with the science of obesity as a chronic illness and provide more innovative solutions for patients.
Tirzepatide works by stimulating the release of insulin, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing appetite by targeting hormone receptors GIP and GLP-1. The drug has shown promising results in clinical trials, with patients experiencing significant weight loss. However, the company has raised concerns about compounded versions of the medication hitting the market with less oversight and regulation from the FDA.
Despite potential benefits of using vials and syringes for self-injection of tirzepatide, patients should be cautious about the source of their medication to ensure safety and effectiveness. LillyDirect aims to provide genuine and safe medication to patients, with thousands of people using the platform each week. The availability of starter doses in vials offers patients an alternative to injector pens and expands access to a potentially life-changing treatment option.
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