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Lilly expands Zepbound access with new vial options and lower pricing for self-pay patients
Eli Lilly and Company has taken another step toward making weight-loss treatment more accessible by expanding its Zepbound (tirzepatide) vial options and introducing new savings for self-pay patients. These changes aim to improve affordability and accessibility for individuals managing obesity without insurance coverage.
New Zepbound vial options and pricing
Lilly has introduced two new Zepbound single-dose vials—7.5 mg and 10 mg—priced at $499 per month through the Zepbound Self Pay Journey Program. Additionally, the price of existing 2.5 mg and 5 mg vials has been reduced, offering more flexibility for patients who are paying out-of-pocket.
Here’s a breakdown of the updated Zepbound vial pricing:
2.5 mg vial → Now $349 per month
5 mg vial → Now $499 per month
7.5 mg vial → $599 per month, but $499/month if refilled within 45 days
10 mg vial → $699 per month, but $499/month if refilled within 45 days
This tiered pricing model rewards patients who maintain consistent treatment by offering discounts on refill orders.
How this impacts self-pay patients
For patients without insurance coverage for weight-loss medications, the high cost of GLP-1 treatments like Zepbound, Wegovy, and Ozempic has been a major barrier. Lilly’s direct-to-consumer pricing strategy through LillyDirect eliminates third-party supply chain markups, allowing patients to access lower, transparent pricing outside of insurance networks.
According to Joe Nadglowski, president and CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC):
The OAC applauds Lilly for another step forward in improving the affordability of obesity treatment. However, we still have a long way to go in building a healthcare system that provides comprehensive care, coverage, and payment of such care for people with obesity that is free of weight bias.
This initiative is part of Lilly’s broader commitment to making obesity treatments more accessible while advocating for better insurance coverage of weight-loss medications.
Final thoughts: A step toward more affordable obesity care
While these pricing adjustments and vial expansions are a positive move, many patients still face challenges in accessing affordable obesity treatments. Advocacy for broader insurance coverage remains a key issue, but Lilly’s efforts provide a more cost-effective option for those paying out-of-pocket.
For those considering Zepbound as part of their weight-loss journey, these changes could make treatment more affordable and sustainable. If you’re interested in exploring whether Zepbound is right for you, consult a healthcare provider to discuss your options.
FAQs about Imbue
Q: What is Imbue?
A: Imbue provides virtual direct-to-consumer weight-loss services, focusing on helping patients achieve their goals through personalized plans, including lifestyle guidance and medication support. Our program includes an initial assessment, regular check-ins, and ongoing support, and emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes alongside medications like Zepbound and Wegovy for those who qualify.
Q: What is included in Imbue’s weight loss service?
A: Imbue offers a monthly subscription priced at $49.99, which includes personalized support and guidance on weight management, separate from medication costs.
Q: Does Imbue offer medications like Zepbound or Wegovy?
A: Imbue utilizes LillyDirect and NovoCare to offer customers discounted Zepbound and Wegovy, priced from $349 to $499 monthly.
