Latest news with #Zepbound®
Business Journals
08-07-2025
- Health
- Business Journals
GLP-1 Drugs: Essential insights for employers
GLP-1 medications have attracted considerable interest in recent years due to their success in managing diabetes and contributing to weight loss. As these medications continue to gain traction, employers may encounter an array of opportunities and challenges, especially concerning cost control and employee health. What are GLP-1 drugs? Originally designed to help manage type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels, these medications are now frequently prescribed for weight loss as well. However, this increase in demand has had a notable impact on overall pharmacy spending, making it essential for employers to pay attention to how these drugs affect their health care costs. Why should employers care? One major concern is the skyrocketing price of GLP-1 medications. Pharmaceutical companies are charging Americans 10 times what they do in other countries such as Britian, Australia and France. When families and employers make a significant investment, we want the results to be successful. The rising appeal of GLP-1 drugs for cosmetic weight loss has led to a significant increase in off-label prescribing, which can result in the potential for unnecessary claims, legal or ethical dilemmas and the risk of poor health outcomes for individuals who may not receive the right support for their condition. How Univera Healthcare helps employers manage this trend As the GLP-1 landscape evolves, we are dedicated to keeping our policies aligned with the latest data to ensure the best outcomes for your team. On January 1, 2025, Univera Healthcare made important updates to our prior authorization criteria to align them with bariatric surgery standards. BMI requirements were increased to greater than 40 mg/kg2 or greater than 35 mg/kg2 with one more weight-related comorbidity. We did this to focus our resources on members facing the highest risks of serious medical issues and life-threatening complications. This decision came after thorough analysis and reflection of our commitment to prioritizing the health and safety of our groups and their members. To combat inappropriate prescriptions and further ensure the safety of employees, we employ utilization management programs. The prior authorization process requires health care providers to certify that a member is enrolled in an approved weight loss program and meets the necessary medical criteria for GLP-1 therapy. This careful approach aims to maintain access to requisite treatments while effectively managing costs. Through this management of GLP-1 use, Univera Healthcare has realized cost savings, as indicated by the graph below: expand 'Univera Healthcare is using what appears to be the most sensible weight loss GLP-1 prior authorization criteria in the marketplace, without significantly disrupting rebates.' — USI Partner What we know about the future of GLP-1 drugs In 2024, there were significant advancements with GLP-1 indications. Zepbound® received an expanded indication for the treatment of sleep apnea, enhancing its role in patient care. Wegovy® also expanded its indications by gaining approval for reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. Additionally, as of January 2025, Ozempic® is now approved for use in patients with type 2 diabetes who also have chronic kidney disease. These developments represent important progress in the management of various health conditions under one drug. Given the market success of these products, there has been significant interest and investment in obesity medications. Many manufacturers are now exploring new approaches, including new drugs, alternative delivery methods, and improved side effect profiles. More than 15 new obesity medications are expected to gain approval over the next five years. Partner with Univera Healthcare While GLP-1 drugs possess the potential to enhance employee health, they must be utilized responsibly. By partnering with a pharmacy benefits provider such as Univera Healthcare, employers can better control costs, protect their bottom line and ensure their workforce receives the appropriate care.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Welldoc Works with Lilly to Launch a New Personalized Health & Medicine Platform for Those Prescribed Lilly's Incretin Therapies
Providing Cardiometabolic Digital Health Support for Patients prescribed Zepbound® (tirzepatide) or Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) COLUMBIA, Md., June 04, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Welldoc®, a leader in AI-powered digital health innovation, today announced it will power the newly launched Lilly Health™ Personalized Health & Medicine Platform* (Lilly Health app) with its cardiometabolic digital health platform. The Lilly Health app is designed to support a tailored patient experience for individuals interested in or using Eli Lilly and Company's incretin-based therapies, for the treatment of cardiometabolic conditions, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and moderate- to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and obesity. Initially, the Lilly Health app will be available for patients prescribed Zepbound® (tirzepatide)** or Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)**. Lilly and Welldoc aim to build a more seamless patient experience through educational resources and targeted support. The Lilly Health app will provide features to help patients with their cardiometabolic health goals and weight, such as medication logging, reminders, device connectivity and health data tracking. "We are incredibly proud to expand our impactful work with Lilly. Welldoc's robust and AI-powered digital health platform is uniquely equipped to be a powerful foundation for the Lilly Health app," said Kevin McRaith, President and CEO of Welldoc. "Our proven ability to integrate complex data, deliver personalized insights and support individuals across multiple cardiometabolic conditions positions us as the ideal technology partner for Lilly's ambitious vision. We are confident that our scalable and secure platform will enable Lilly Health to deliver a truly transformative and connected experience for patients." The Lilly Health app is built upon Welldoc's well-established digital cardiometabolic platform, which provides individuals with extensive device and data connectivity, in-app nutrition and exercise resources, and comprehensive trends and insights to help individuals manage complex cardiometabolic conditions with their providers and optimize their overall health over time. About Welldoc Welldoc®, a digital health leader revolutionizing cardiometabolic care, is integrating personalized, real-time and actionable insights into the daily lives of individuals living with cardiometabolic conditions, enabling improved health and outcomes. Welldoc's comprehensive digital health platform provides AI-powered digital coaching across pre-diabetes, diabetes, hypertension, heart failure and weight and obesity management, with integrated mental wellbeing and sleep support. Welldoc is an FDA-cleared digital health solution that guides individuals through the complicated journey of living with diabetes by enabling them to self-manage their care while enhancing connections to their healthcare team. The company partners with health plans, health systems and employers with the goal of extending care, improving health and reducing costs. Welldoc has achieved 11 510(k) clearances for diabetes functionality within its digital health platform, and an IP portfolio of 50+ patents for its advanced AI and first-in-class tech. With over 90 clinical publications, Welldoc has also built an extensive library of clinical research, including many publications focused on the value of combining CGM with AI-powered digital health solutions. Welldoc is an industry thought leader and has been showcased in prestigious conferences and publications, including South by Southwest, The Wall Street Journal and The Economist. The company has been named the "Best Overall Digital Health Company" by MedTech Breakthrough for the past two years and was selected as a winner of the 2025 AI Excellence Awards by Business Intelligence Group, 2024 Healthcare AI Impact Awards, Innovation Awards by Business Intelligence Group and Top 100 Healthcare Technology Companies by the Healthcare Technology Report. For more information, visit Follow us on LinkedIn and X. *Lilly Health™ Personalized Health & Medicine Platform Lilly Health Personalized Health & Medicine Platform is intended for use as a health management aid for adult patients 18 years or older who have been prescribed Zepbound® (tirzepatide) or Mounjaro® (tirzepatide). Lilly Health provides Zepbound and Mounjaro users with medication reminders, medication dose logging, and health data logging. Lilly Health is not intended to provide treatment decisions or replace the care and advice of a licensed Health Care Provider (HCP). All medical analysis and treatment plans should be performed by a licensed HCP. ** Zepbound® (tirzepatide) Zepbound is an injectable prescription medicine that may help adults with: obesity, or some adults with overweight who has have weight-related medical problems to lose excess body weight and keep the weight off moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity to improve their OSA. It should be used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Zepbound contains tirzepatide and should not be used with other tirzepatide-containing products or any GLP-1 receptor agonist medicines. It is not known if Zepbound is safe and effective for use in children. See for full indications of use. **Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) Mounjaro is an injectable prescription medicine that is used along with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. It is not known if Mounjaro can be used in people who have had pancreatitis. Mounjaro is not for use in people with type 1 diabetes. It is not known if Mounjaro is safe and effective for use in children under 18 years of age. See for full indications of use. View source version on Contacts Sylvia ArandaReal Chemistrysaranda@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
29-05-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
AgelessRx Broadens GLP-1 Weight Care Options to Advance Longevity-First Healthcare
ANN ARBOR, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- AgelessRx, a pioneer in longevity and telehealth solutions, is expanding its suite of GLP-1 offerings to better serve customers seeking sustainable, medically guided solutions. The updated offering includes access to Zepbound® via LillyDirect® and the introduction of Compounded Liraglutide + B12. This expansion reflects AgelessRx's mission to make science-backed, personalized longevity care more accessible, offering a range of clinically appropriate GLP-1 therapies that support better metabolic health and, in turn, potentially improve lifespan and healthspan. Weight is one of the most modifiable risk factors affecting healthy aging. Elevated BMI is strongly associated with reduced life expectancy, insulin resistance, and age-related disease. For people who've struggled to achieve a lower BMI through lifestyle alone, GLP-1s have been a promising solution. The GLP-1 category is projected to exceed $322.85 billion globally by 2034, with rapid growth at 21.3% CAGR, driven by public demand for obesity and metabolic health solutions that target the biology behind weight gain. As a longevity-first platform, AgelessRx is uniquely positioned to guide customers through safe, personalized use of these therapies as part of a broader preventative care model. AgelessRx clinicians will evaluate eligibility and, if appropriate, prescribe Zepbound® for fulfillment via LillyDirect®, Eli Lilly's direct-to-patient pharmacy. AgelessRx will provide full prescription management and clinical oversight for $50/month, including titration guidance, side-effect monitoring, as well as ongoing care and education to provide an additional layer of longevity-focused support. If eligible, patients can access Zepbound® single-dose vials directly from LillyDirect®, starting at $349/month. AgelessRx is not affiliated with Eli Lilly or LillyDirect® and serves solely as the prescribing and care coordination provider to support patients through their treatment. Recent topline results from the SURMOUNT-5 trial show the impact of Zepbound® (tirzepatide): −20.2% average weight reduction with tirzepatide compared to -13.7% with semaglutide 47% greater relative reduction in weight Over 31% of patients on tirzepatide achieved ≥25% weight loss While full peer-reviewed results are pending, these findings reinforce growing evidence that dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide may offer significant metabolic benefits. In addition to supporting access to Zepbound® via LillyDirect®, AgelessRx has also introduced Compounded Liraglutide + B12, a daily GLP-1 injectable. These two new treatments join several other metabolic health solutions, all of which are prescribed following a comprehensive evaluation and personalized plan, providing eligible customers with a diverse range of treatment options based on affordability, clinical fit, safety, and overall health goals. For additional information about AgelessRx, please visit *AgelessRx has no affiliation or partnership with Eli Lilly or LillyDirect®. AgelessRx's role is to provide clinical evaluation and prescription management for patients who meet the medical criteria for Zepbound®. Medication fulfillment is handled solely by LillyDirect®. About AgelessRx AgelessRx is at the forefront of the longevity revolution, offering clinically validated, cutting-edge solutions and preventive treatments aimed at extending life expectancy and enhancing quality of life. AgelessRx also continues to advance the field of longevity science by conducting ongoing research and clinical trials. Through its online platform, AgelessRx provides easy access to innovative healthcare services, with an emphasis on customer satisfaction, affordability, and the pursuit of a future where extended healthspan is a reality for everyone. Follow AgelessRx on Instagram, X, and Facebook.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
AgelessRx Broadens GLP-1 Weight Care Options to Advance Longevity-First Healthcare
New offerings, including Zepbound® via LillyDirect® and Compounded Liraglutide + B12, reflect AgelessRx's mission to make clinically validated, metabolic health solutions more accessible. ANN ARBOR, Mich., May 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AgelessRx, a pioneer in longevity and telehealth solutions, is expanding its suite of GLP-1 offerings to better serve customers seeking sustainable, medically guided solutions. The updated offering includes access to Zepbound® via LillyDirect® and the introduction of Compounded Liraglutide + B12. This expansion reflects AgelessRx's mission to make science-backed, personalized longevity care more accessible, offering a range of clinically appropriate GLP-1 therapies that support better metabolic health and, in turn, potentially improve lifespan and healthspan. Weight is one of the most modifiable risk factors affecting healthy aging. Elevated BMI is strongly associated with reduced life expectancy, insulin resistance, and age-related disease. For people who've struggled to achieve a lower BMI through lifestyle alone, GLP-1s have been a promising solution. The GLP-1 category is projected to exceed $322.85 billion globally by 2034, with rapid growth at 21.3% CAGR, driven by public demand for obesity and metabolic health solutions that target the biology behind weight gain. As a longevity-first platform, AgelessRx is uniquely positioned to guide customers through safe, personalized use of these therapies as part of a broader preventative care model. AgelessRx clinicians will evaluate eligibility and, if appropriate, prescribe Zepbound® for fulfillment via LillyDirect®, Eli Lilly's direct-to-patient pharmacy. AgelessRx will provide full prescription management and clinical oversight for $50/month, including titration guidance, side-effect monitoring, as well as ongoing care and education to provide an additional layer of longevity-focused support. If eligible, patients can access Zepbound® single-dose vials directly from LillyDirect®, starting at $349/month. AgelessRx is not affiliated with Eli Lilly or LillyDirect® and serves solely as the prescribing and care coordination provider to support patients through their treatment. Recent topline results from the SURMOUNT-5 trial show the impact of Zepbound® (tirzepatide): −20.2% average weight reduction with tirzepatide compared to -13.7% with semaglutide 47% greater relative reduction in weight Over 31% of patients on tirzepatide achieved ≥25% weight loss While full peer-reviewed results are pending, these findings reinforce growing evidence that dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide may offer significant metabolic benefits. In addition to supporting access to Zepbound® via LillyDirect®, AgelessRx has also introduced Compounded Liraglutide + B12, a daily GLP-1 injectable. These two new treatments join several other metabolic health solutions, all of which are prescribed following a comprehensive evaluation and personalized plan, providing eligible customers with a diverse range of treatment options based on affordability, clinical fit, safety, and overall health goals. For additional information about AgelessRx, please visit *AgelessRx has no affiliation or partnership with Eli Lilly or LillyDirect®. AgelessRx's role is to provide clinical evaluation and prescription management for patients who meet the medical criteria for Zepbound®. Medication fulfillment is handled solely by LillyDirect®. About AgelessRx AgelessRx is at the forefront of the longevity revolution, offering clinically validated, cutting-edge solutions and preventive treatments aimed at extending life expectancy and enhancing quality of life. AgelessRx also continues to advance the field of longevity science by conducting ongoing research and clinical trials. Through its online platform, AgelessRx provides easy access to innovative healthcare services, with an emphasis on customer satisfaction, affordability, and the pursuit of a future where extended healthspan is a reality for everyone. Follow AgelessRx on Instagram, X, and Facebook. View source version on Contacts Media contact: JackTaylor PRagelessrx@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Nurx Works with Gifthealth to Streamline Access to Lilly's Medication Zepbound®
NEW YORK, April 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nurx, a leading telehealth platform specializing in women's health, is excited to announce an integration agreement with Gifthealth, Eli Lilly and Company's LillyDirect® pharmacy provider, for Zepbound® (tirzepatide) single-dose vials to simplify prescription access. The arrangement will streamline access to the vials for clinically-eligible Nurx patients with an on-label prescription, ensuring they have a more seamless way to receive chronic weight management treatment. Obesity and overweight affect more than 2 out of 3 women over the age of 20 in the United States and is a risk that increases with age. What's more, 11.5% of women have severe obesity, a higher rate than in men. Overweight and obesity have profound health implications, increasing the risks of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, certain cancers, and complications during pregnancy. This is why addressing overweight and obesity is crucial for improving women's health overall. However, losing weight and keeping it off can be challenging: studies show that only 1 in 10 adults with overweight and obesity achieve weight loss of 5% or more each year. Recognizing these challenges, Nurx is committed to providing women with effective, evidence-based weight management solutions. This integration with Gifthealth will streamline access to Zepbound®, an FDA-approved medication for obesity and chronic weight management, for clinically-eligible patients with an on-label prescription from a Nurx-affiliated provider. This integration arrangement also underscores Nurx's dedication to empowering women with the tools and support necessary to achieve their health goals. As demand for obesity and chronic weight management medications like Zepbound® continues to rise, Nurx is committed to providing comprehensive telehealth care for women navigating weight management. By integrating Gifthealth's pharmacy fulfillment capabilities, Nurx patients will benefit from streamlined access to Zepbound® vials, and can take advantage of Gifthealth's transparent pricing and nationwide delivery — key factors in making obesity care more accessible. "At Nurx, we believe that every woman deserves access to the healthcare solutions that best fit her needs — including safe and effective weight management medications," said Rajani Rao, Chief Business Officer at Nurx. "This integration agreement with Gifthealth allows us to streamline barriers to access, ensuring women can get the medication they need, and pair it with Nurx's comprehensive approach to weight management, which provides ongoing access to physicians and support in making lifestyle changes." Gifthealth has been at the forefront of prescription innovation. This new integration agreement with Nurx will help streamline the prescription fulfillment process for weight management treatments, reinforcing both companies' missions to provide affordable, high-quality care. "We are excited to work with providers such as Nurx to streamline access to authentic Zepbound® vials for women nationwide," said Robert Hoppe, EVP of Life Sciences at Gifthealth. "Our goal is to remove cost and logistical barriers to essential medications, and through these integrations, we can help more patients get the care they need." About Nurx by Thirty MadisonNurx is the leading women's healthcare company making high-quality, judgment-free care accessible and affordable for millions. By removing barriers like cost, stigma, and provider shortages, we provide convenient, personalized treatment across 20+ conditions, including reproductive and sexual health, dermatology, mental health, migraine, hair loss, and weight management. With over 2 million patients served and more than 600,000 actively receiving care, Nurx connects patients directly with trusted healthcare providers and delivers treatment right to their doorstep — ensuring ongoing, specialty-level support that evolves with their needs. About Thirty Madison Thirty Madison offers end-to-end, high-quality virtual specialized care for patients experiencing a range of conditions. Through its brands — Keeps for men's hair loss, Cove for migraine, and Nurx for women's health — Thirty Madison supports the unique needs of its patients with ongoing access to personalized care and specialty-level telemedicine. Thirty Madison's unique care model delivers care that is accessible, affordable, and focused on improving outcomes. Learn more at About Gifthealth Gifthealth is a digital pharmacy solution founded in 2020, focused on simplifying the prescription process for patients, providers, and manufacturers. By leveraging technology, Gifthealth ensures cost-effective medication access, with a mission to improve adherence and health outcomes. Learn more at Media Contact:Stephanie HallPitch Public Relations480.216.5433 | Stephanie@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Nurx
