Eli Lilly plans to launch a direct-to-employer model for its GLP-1 medications in early 2026 in a move aimed at giving companies more flexibility in designing obesity management benefits for their employees.
The model will include three components: flexible benefit design options for obesity care, a dedicated pharmacy network with transparent pricing, and customized obesity management programs through independent third parties, according to a Nov. 21 news release.
The announcement comes as GLP-1 pricing and access continue to evolve rapidly. In November, Novo Nordisk began offering Wegovy and Ozempic for $199 monthly for the first two months of treatment for self-paying patients, with subsequent months priced at $349.
Novo Nordisk and Lilly also reached an agreement in November to sell the medications under Medicare and Medicaid for $245 monthly with a $50 copay, and through TrumpRx for $350 monthly starting in 2026. GoodRx, Costco, WeightWatchers, CVS and other pharmaceutical retailers will participate in the offering.
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