Lilly deal with US govt to expand access to obesity medicines

US pharma major Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) has announced an agreement with the US government to expand access to its obesity medicines and reduce patient costs.

Under the pact, starting as early as April 1, 2026, Medicare beneficiaries will pay no more than $50 per month for Zepbound (tirzepatide), available in a multi-dose pen, and for orforglipron, Lilly's convenient once-daily obesity pill, provided both receive approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). States will also have the ability to expand access to Zepbound and orforglipron through Medicaid.

Lilly applied for the Commissioner's National Priority Voucher for orforglipron, potentially accelerating US FDA approval.