In combination with GLP-1, GIP plays an important role in regulating blood glucose levels and fat metabolism. Both hormones also slow the rate at which the stomach empties, making us feel fuller for longer.
“The reduction in the cost of medications makes them available to more people who need them,” Dr. Muhammad Ghanem, a bariatric surgeon at Orlando Health Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery Institute, told Newsweek. “But as affordability increases, so does the need for education.”
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Zepbound is usually sold in pen-type applicators. However, to reduce costs and production time, the new version of the drug is delivered in a vial and requires the patient to inject it with a special syringe.
“When it comes to medications that patients need to inject themselves, patients take responsibility for administering the injection properly,” Ghanem said.
“Therefore, it is imperative that healthcare providers educate their patients on safe medication administration. Every patient is different, so clinicians must distinguish whether a vial versus a syringe is a good option for a given patient.”
While self-injection may require more skill, Elli Lilly said the new single-dose vials offer a “safe and effective treatment option.”
The single-dose vials are available in two quantities — 2.5 milligrams and 5 milligrams — priced at $399 and $549 per month, respectively.
James Zervos, Chief Operating Officer, Obesity Action Coalition [organizacji działającej na rzecz przeciwdziałania otyłości — przyp.red]said the development of this pharmaceutical segment represents a milestone in combating cost barriers for anti-obesity drugs.
“People living with obesity have long been denied access to the treatment and care needed to manage this serious chronic disease,” Zervos said.
“Expanding treatment coverage and accessibility is critical for people living with obesity.”
“Now is the time for policymakers, employers and insurers to work with pharmaceutical companies to ensure that no one is left behind in receiving the care they deserve and need.”
Ghanem added: “Accessibility to healthcare is extremely important and is now another tool that doctors have at their disposal to help their patients. However, this development underscores the importance of education if patients and their healthcare providers decide to pursue this path.”
Text published in the American magazine “Newsweek”. Title, lead and subtitles by the editors of “Newsweek Polska”.
