The Endocrine Society is set to debut its new Center on Obesity and a Scientific Statement on obesity science and research gaps. The virtual event on September 9 will feature expert presentations and discussions on the latest developments in obesity treatments and research.
In Mississippi, where obesity rates are among the highest in the country, Medicaid coverage of weight loss drugs known as GLP-1s has been slow to take off due to national drug shortages, prior authorization requirements, and lack of marketing. Only 2% of eligible adults have been prescribed the drugs, which can cost around $1,000 a month.
South Carolina and 13 other states are covering GLP-1s, a class of weight loss drugs, for Medicaid beneficiaries, despite the federal government's decision not to finalize a rule that would have allowed millions to access the treatment.
Medicare to cover weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound for $50 a month under a new pilot program, a significant shift for the healthcare system. The program aims to increase accessibility for older Americans struggling with obesity.
Mwyngil Therapeutics, a new biotech startup, is tackling obesity with a unique approach that doesn't involve the popular GLP-1 target. CEO Luba Greenwood explains why the company is taking a different path in the multibillion-dollar weight loss market.
With list prices of roughly $1,000 a month, public and private payers are struggling to keep up with ballooning demand for GLP-1 weight loss drugs, leading some to restrict coverage or explore 'deprescription' to taper patients off the medication.
A new pilot program will allow some Medicare recipients to access GLP-1 weight loss medications for $50 a month, potentially helping millions of older adults who struggle with obesity. The program, set to launch on July 1, will cover three drugs and be available to those with Medicare Part D who meet certain conditions.
Medicare's new 'Bridge' program aims to make GLP-1 weight loss medications more affordable, but its complex eligibility criteria and administrative burdens may limit access for patients. The program, which offers discounted access to medications like Wegovy and Zepbound, requires extensive documentation and prior authorizations, which can delay treatment and increase staff workload.
Eli Lilly has given a 79-year-old patient access to its experimental obesity drug, retatrutide, through the FDA's compassionate use program. The move has raised eyebrows, with sources suggesting the patient may be well-connected. Retatrutide has shown promising results, with weight loss comparable to bariatric surgery.