Zepbound (Tirzepatide) Starting at $349 Monthly Price Now Available at Walmart Pharmacies

Eli Lilly and Walmart have announced a strategic collaboration to significantly expand access to the obesity medication Zepbound (tirzepatide), with retail pick-up options available nationwide by mid-November. This partnership introduces direct-to-consumer pricing through LillyDirect, enabling patients to acquire the medication for as low as $349 per month. The development was highlighted on social media, with user Crémieux tweeting, "> Now you can just walk into Walmart if you have a prescription (easily acquired) and get a pen of tirzepatide for $349 for a month's supply at 2.5 mg or $499 for a month of any other dose level."

The new self-pay pricing structure offers Zepbound at $349 for the 2.5 mg starting dose and $499 for all other approved strengths, including 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg, per month. These prices are accessible to individuals holding a valid, on-label prescription, regardless of their insurance status. LillyDirect's direct-to-consumer model aims to provide substantial savings, offering a 50% or greater discount compared to the list price of other incretin (GLP-1) medicines for obesity.

Walmart's extensive network of nearly 4,600 pharmacies will serve as the first in-store pickup location for LillyDirect's self-pay single-dose vials, enhancing convenience for patients. Jennifer Mazur, SVP and General Manager of LillyDirect, stated that the collaboration "is designed to reduce that burden by streamlining access to prescribed treatment." This initiative provides an alternative to home delivery, catering to patients who prefer local pharmacy pick-up.

This partnership marks a significant step towards increasing price transparency and streamlining the supply chain for essential medications, reflecting a growing trend in direct-to-consumer healthcare models. The move is anticipated to positively impact the affordability and accessibility of obesity management treatments across the country. As Crémieux noted in the tweet, "> Looks like getting obesity drugs is becoming less expensive and more convenient."

Zepbound is an injectable prescription medicine containing tirzepatide, approved for adults with obesity or overweight individuals who also have weight-related medical problems, including moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea. It is intended for use in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.