Eli Lilly Slashes Mounjaro Price in UK After Hike Concerns

The anticipated price increase for the weight-loss injection Mounjaro has been significantly reduced, following a new offer from its manufacturer, Eli Lilly and Company. Originally scheduled to rise by 170% on September 1, 2023, the price of the highest dose will now be capped at £247.50, down from a projected £330.

This change comes just days before the price hike was set to take effect, allowing users to save over £80 on the maximum monthly dosage. Eli Lilly had indicated that the steep price increase was necessary to manage supply amidst soaring demand, which had led to reports of panic buying at pharmacies across the UK.

According to the BBC, while there will still be additional costs associated with individual pharmacies and private weight-loss services, the announced discount will be a relief for many Mounjaro users. The adjustment means that patients can expect a price rise, but it will be significantly lower than the initial hike they had feared.

Implications for Patients and NHS

Mounjaro, known generically as tirzepatide, became available on the National Health Service (NHS) at the end of June 2023. However, the discounted price will not affect NHS pricing, as the healthcare service secures its own heavily discounted rates for patients on prescription. Currently, approximately 1.5 million people in the UK use injections for weight loss, with more than half relying on Mounjaro.

Research indicates that only about one in ten individuals receive Mounjaro through NHS prescriptions, while many others purchase it privately from online providers and local pharmacies. The latest developments come just hours after Eli Lilly announced a pause on shipments of Mounjaro to the UK, citing the need to stabilize supply in light of increased demand.

A spokesperson for Eli Lilly 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. We are already seeing providers respond in different ways to the list price change, with a range of options available for eligible patients.”

Market Response and Future Plans

The spike in demand for Mounjaro has led to noticeable shortages at major pharmacy chains, including Boots and Lloyds. As the situation evolves, Eli Lilly aims to partner with the UK government to enhance NHS access for eligible patients, aligning with the commitments laid out in the Government’s 10 Year Plan.

Mounjaro and its competitor, Ozempic, both require weekly injections and were initially developed to treat Type 2 diabetes. The adjustment in pricing reflects an ongoing effort to balance accessibility and affordability for patients seeking effective weight-loss solutions.