Home / Health / CVS Reinstates Lilly's Zepbound on Key Drug Lists
CVS Reinstates Lilly's Zepbound on Key Drug Lists
28 May
Summary
- CVS Caremark will add Zepbound back as a preferred option on October 1.
- The move aims to increase access to GLP-1 weight-loss treatments.
- CVS will also remove a block on Lilly's new oral weight-loss pill, Foundayo.
CVS Health's pharmacy benefit manager, Caremark, has announced a significant shift in its coverage policy for weight-loss medications. Starting October 1, Zepbound, a popular GLP-1 drug from Eli Lilly, will be reinstated as an additional preferred option on select commercial formularies.
This move is intended to improve access to GLP-1 weight-loss treatments for employers and health plans, addressing the high cost associated with these therapies. This contrasts with a decision made last year, when Zepbound was removed from coverage while rival Novo Nordisk's Wegovy remained.
Furthermore, Caremark will remove a 'new-to-market block' on Lilly's oral weight-loss pill, Foundayo, effective June 1. This policy change will enable coverage for Foundayo where health plans have already approved it.
The increasing demand and elevated prices of GLP-1 drugs have previously led some entities to limit or withdraw coverage for weight-loss use, with many clients discontinuing such coverage.
