The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that all doses of Eli Lilly’s weight-loss drug Zepbound and diabetes drug Mounjaro are now available. However, these drugs remain on the FDA’s shortage list.
Key Points
- Drug Availability:
- Zepbound: Added to the shortage list in April 2023.
- Mounjaro: On the shortage list since late 2022.
- Current Status: Despite availability, additional criteria are being assessed before removal from the shortage list.
FDA’s Monitoring and Criteria
- Active Monitoring: The FDA is working closely with Eli Lilly to ensure a stable supply of these drugs.
- Criteria for Removal:
- Fulfillment of backorders
- Consistent supply meeting demand
Eli Lilly’s Efforts
A spokesperson from Eli Lilly confirmed that all doses are available, in line with their statements that supply would improve by the latter half of 2024. The company is investing billions to boost production due to surging demand.
Market Context
- Rival Companies: Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, is also increasing production to meet demand.
- GLP-1 Therapies: Originally for diabetes, these drugs can reduce weight by up to 20% in trials. Analysts predict the market for these therapies could reach $150 billion by the early 2030s.
Availability Overview
| Drug | Added to Shortage List | Current Status | FDA Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zepbound | April 2023 | All doses available | Remains on shortage list |
| Mounjaro | Late 2022 | All doses available | Remains on shortage list |
The FDA’s announcement highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure the availability of essential drugs. Eli Lilly’s investment in production capacity aims to meet the growing demand, offering hope for a more stable supply in the near future
