The FDA announced that the shortage of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Eli Lilly’s weight loss drug Zepbound, is resolved, ending the ability of compounding pharmacies to produce unapproved cheaper versions. Compounding pharmacies now have 60-90 days to cease production, which they argue provided affordable alternatives for uninsured patients struggling with Zepbound’s high costs. This decision has sparked a lawsuit from the Outsourcing Facilities Association, claiming the FDA acted without notice, favoring Eli Lilly at the expense of patients. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly is expanding its manufacturing to meet surging demand for tirzepatide amidst ongoing discussions about other weight loss drugs.
