The cost of Mounjaro, a popular weight-loss drug, will not be as high as initially feared, following commercial deals struck between its manufacturer, Eli Lilly, and private providers and pharmacies. Earlier this month, Eli Lilly had announced a significant wholesale price increase from September 1, with the highest 15mg dose soaring from £122 to £330 a month, and the 5mg dose rising from £92 to £180. However, new arrangements reveal the top dose will now increase to £247.50, nearly £100 less than the proposed list price, with smaller discounts applied to lower strengths.

Eli Lilly justified the price adjustments by stating the UK was one of the first countries to roll out Mounjaro, and its list price had been significantly lower than the European average. The company aims to align its list price more consistently to ensure a fair global contribution to innovation costs. In response to the initial price hike announcement, slimmers rushed to stockpile months' worth of Mounjaro, leading to unprecedented demand and pharmacies running out of stock. This panic-buying was described by some as 'Covid-style'.

Adding to the controversy, Eli Lilly temporarily paused the supply of Mounjaro to the UK until the new higher prices take effect in September. This move was intended to prevent further stockpiling at the current lower price. Health leaders, including Dr. Leyla Hannbeck, CEO of the Independent Pharmacies Association, condemned the decision, calling it