Tirzepatide 2.5 mg and 5 mg single-dose vials for self-pay patients with an on-label prescription are now available. This move aims to significantly expand the supply of tirzepatide in response to high demand. The single-dose vials are priced at a 50% or greater discount compared to the list price of all other incretin (GLP-1) medications for obesity.
This option helps expand access to tirzepatide for patients not eligible for the savings card program, those without employer coverage, and those who need to self-pay outside of insurance, according to the manufacturer, Eli Lilly.
The vials will be distributed through LillyDirect's self-pay pharmacy, with a multi-step verification process to ensure they are dispensed only to patients with a valid, on-label electronic prescription from their health care provider.
A 4-week supply of the 2.5 mg tirzepatide single-dose vial is priced at $399 ($99.75 per vial), while a 4-week supply of the 5 mg dose is $549 ($137.25 per vial). These prices are in line with the tirzepatide savings program for non-covered individuals. The self-pay channel enables transparent pricing by removing third-party supply chain entities and allowing patients to access savings directly outside of insurance.
In a clinical study, patients taking tirzepatide 5 mg, along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, achieved an average of 15% weight loss over 72 weeks compared to 3.1% for placebo, according to a press release from Eli Liily.
Tirzepatide is the first obesity treatment that activates both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) hormone receptors, tackling an underlying cause of excess weight by reducing appetite and food intake. It is indicated for adults with obesity or those who are overweight and also have weight-related medical problems.
Tirzepatide should not be used in individuals under 18 or with other tirzepatide-containing products or any GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines. It has not been studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease, including severe gastroparesis.
Patients should be monitored for potential side effects, including thyroid tumors, severe stomach problems, kidney problems, gallbladder problems, pancreatitis, serious allergic reactions, low blood sugar, changes in vision, and depression or thoughts of suicide.
