Post by : Saif Rahman

US President Donald Trump has unveiled a pivotal agreement with pharmaceutical giants Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk aimed at slashing costs for essential obesity medications. This initiative also broadens Medicare coverage, improving accessibility for millions across the nation.

The prescription drugs Zepbound and Wegovy, often used to tackle obesity and manage Type 2 diabetes, typically range in price from $500 to $650 monthly for those without insurance—a heavy burden for many. From 2026, new oral formulations could be priced as low as $149 per month, with existing injectable options expected to decrease to approximately $350.

This initiative is part of a broader program dubbed TrumpRx, which seeks to allow uninsured Americans to purchase these drugs directly from manufacturers at reduced rates. For Medicare recipients, co-pays will be limited to $50, while Medicaid clients may face minimal or no costs.

In a statement from the White House, Trump underscored that this agreement could lead to significant savings for Americans, facilitating access to medications essential for managing obesity, diabetes, heart issues, and other related health concerns. “This marks a historic reduction in costs for some of the priciest medications available,” the statement revealed.

With obesity emerging as a significant public health challenge in the US—impacting nearly 40% of American adults according to CDC data—research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that drugs like Zepbound and Wegovy may assist patients in shedding between 15% and 22% of their body weight, with some achieving weight loss exceeding 50 pounds.

Health experts believe that lowering these medication costs could enhance health outcomes for millions. The high expense has frequently obstructed access for numerous Americans seeking assistance to maintain a healthy weight and lessen the risk of associated illnesses.

This agreement is anticipated to substantially influence public health by enhancing access to weight management drugs. The dual advantage of reduced prices and expanded Medicare coverage is poised to aid Americans in combating obesity and promoting overall health.

#Health #Wellness