During an interview with CNBC, Eli Lilly CEO Dave Ricks revealed that since the launch of Medicare coverage for obesity drugs in July, approximately 700,000 new seniors have begun GLP-1 treatments, with 70% opting for Lilly's medications. This coverage is facilitated through a temporary program called 'Bridge,' which allows eligible seniors to access weight loss drugs for a $50 monthly co-pay.
Ricks described the rollout as 'very encouraging,' indicating that it aligns with the company's expectations for market expansion. Lilly's Zepbound injection has emerged as a leading choice among these new patients, particularly for those with significant weight-related health issues.
Additionally, Lilly's recently launched oral obesity medication, Foundayo, is gaining traction, capturing one-third of new oral GLP-1 patients. Ricks noted that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services effectively managed the rollout, ensuring that physicians were well-informed and that the process ran smoothly.
This positive reception and the strong market share could bode well for Lilly's future performance in the obesity treatment sector