Lower prices for weight-loss pills from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are prompting patients to switch from compounded medications to branded Wegovy and Foundayo, according to Reuters interviews with nine U.S. doctors.
Prices for the lowest doses of both oral medications tend to be lower than for their injectable obesity medicines, and at par with compounded versions.
As many patients struggle with declining insurance coverage, the lower-priced options have been a boon for the drugmakers, the doctors said.
Novo and Lilly began selling the oral medications in the U.S. in January and April, respectively, reporting strong demand.
Still, they have complained about compounded versions, which are allowed by the FDA. The FDA has sought to tighten limits after shortages ended.
Doctors hope lower pricing will turn people toward branded drugs, which are subject to greater oversight.
"I am seeing people are switching from compounds," said Dr. Michael Weintraub, assistant clinical professor of endocrinology at NYU Langone.
A Lilly spokesperson said the company is encouraged by patients choosing FDA-approved treatments like Foundayo.
Novo said it has expanded access to its GLP-1 drugs through NovoCare Pharmacy and retail partnerships.
While some doctors said patients are switching to injectables, most are turning to pills due to comparable prices.
