Eli Lilly, the US pharmaceutical company behind the weight-loss drug Mounjaro, has paused orders to UK wholesalers ahead of a significant price increase scheduled for September. The company reportedly instructed its two British wholesalers to stop taking orders as demand surged following the announcement of a list price rise of up to 170%.
The price increase, due to take effect on 1 September, will see the cost of a month's supply of the highest dose rise from £122 to £330. Eli Lilly stated that the temporary pause is to manage supply and ensure continued patient access, with orders set to resume on 1 September. The company also noted legal protections against inappropriate stockpiling.
The price rise follows pressure from the White House, which has urged drugmakers to raise prices in Europe to allow for cuts in the US. Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide, became available on the NHS in late June, and Eli Lilly confirmed that NHS patients would not be affected by the higher price.
Pharmacies reported panic buying since the price announcement. Experts warned patients against switching to unregulated sellers or bulk buying. Some users have already moved to the cheaper alternative Wegovy, but many are reluctant due to potential side-effects or reduced effectiveness.
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, said the situation could delay vital surgeries for patients using Mounjaro pre-operatively, adding to NHS waiting lists. She called for policymakers to address the issue.
