Mounjaro Price Discount Eases Concerns After Expected Hike

A significant price increase for the weight-loss drug Mounjaro has been mitigated thanks to a last-minute discount offered by its manufacturer, Eli Lilly and Company. The anticipated rise of up to 170% was set to take effect on September 1, 2023, potentially raising the cost of the highest dose from £122 to £330 per month. However, the new price will now be £247.50, allowing patients to save more than £80 on their monthly prescriptions.

Eli Lilly’s decision comes as welcome news for many users, particularly as the company has been grappling with soaring demand for the drug in the UK. Reports indicate that pharmacies had experienced panic buying of Mounjaro following news of the initial price hike. The manufacturer paused shipments to the UK to manage supply and ensure continued access for patients.

While the price reduction will alleviate some financial burden, users should be aware that individual pharmacies and private weight-loss services may still impose additional fees. As a result, patients can expect some increase in costs, but it will likely be less than what was originally anticipated.

Mounjaro became available on the NHS at the end of June 2023. Despite the new pricing structure, the NHS has its own discounted rates for patients on prescription, meaning the changes will not directly affect NHS costs. Currently, around 1.5 million people in the UK use injections for weight loss, with over half utilizing Mounjaro. However, research indicates that only one in ten of those users receive their prescriptions through the NHS; many rely on private online services or high street pharmacies.

The ongoing discussions between Eli Lilly and private providers aim to maintain affordability for patients. A spokesperson for the company stated, “We are working with private providers on commercial arrangements to maintain affordability and expect these to be passed onto patients when the change is effective on September 1.”

Eli Lilly also emphasized its commitment to collaborating with the UK Government to expand NHS access for eligible patients, building on pledges made in the Government’s 10 Year Plan.

Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide, is gaining popularity as an alternative to Ozempic, another medication requiring weekly injections. Both drugs were initially developed for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes but have since become widely used for weight management.

As the situation develops, the combination of increased supply management and price adjustments could significantly impact the accessibility and affordability of Mounjaro for users in the UK.