Eli Lilly says Medicare coverage is expanding GLP-1 use among seniors

Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks said on Monday that 700,000 new seniors have started GLP1 treatments since Medicare began covering obesity drugs in July. He said about 70% of those patients are using Lilly medicines. Ricks made the comments in an interview with CNBC, describing the rollout as encouraging and saying the coverage is broadening access to weightloss drugs. He said the temporary Bridge program lets eligible Medicare beneficiaries get these medicines for a $50 monthly copay. According to Ricks, Lilly’s obesity injection Zepbound has been the main beneficiary so far, while the company’s newer pill, Foundayo, is drawing patients who prefer an oral option. He also said the rollout has largely gone smoothly, with no major logistical problems reported.