Trump announces major price cuts for obesity drugs in deal with global pharmaceutical companies
Wegovy and Zepbound to drop to one-quarter of previous prices as U.S. government pairs cost reduction with three-year tariff waivers
U.S. President Donald Trump has reached agreements with global pharmaceutical companies to significantly reduce the prices of leading obesity medications, marking one of the most substantial prescription drug price adjustments in recent years.
During a press briefing at the White House on the 6th (local time), Trump announced that Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound will be provided to American consumers at prices aligned with those paid by patients in other advanced economies. The price cuts are expected to take effect early next year.
According to Trump, the monthly price of Wegovy will fall from approximately $1,350 to $250, while Zepbound will drop from $1,080 to about $346.
For patients covered under Medicare and Medicaid, out-of-pocket expenses may be reduced further to as low as $50, due to federal subsidy adjustments.
“These medications—what I call the ‘weight-loss drugs’—are proven to improve health by reducing obesity-related risks,” Trump said. “This decision will save lives and make treatment accessible to millions who previously could not afford it.”
The agreement also includes a three-year suspension of tariffs on eligible medications produced by the participating pharmaceutical companies. In exchange, the companies will maintain the reduced pricing for U.S. consumers.
Industry analysts note that although the price cut may temporarily affect revenue, the pharmaceutical companies may regain profitability through increased prescription volume.
“With Medicare having more than 67 million beneficiaries, demand is likely to grow significantly,” said Evan Seigerman, head of healthcare research at BMO Capital Markets.
Both Wegovy and Zepbound belong to the GLP-1 agonist class of drugs, originally developed to assist with blood sugar regulation. Medical studies have since demonstrated their ability to reduce appetite and support sustained weight loss, which has driven global demand.
Trump also announced that, within the year, consumers will be able to purchase these medications directly through a new federal platform titled “TrumpRx.”
The move comes as part of the administration’s broader effort to pressure pharmaceutical companies to bring U.S. drug prices closer to international norms, after decades of criticism that American patients bear disproportionately high costs.