Mounjaro Weight-Loss Drug Expected to See Significant Price Reduction in Ireland

Ireland's National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics (NCPE) expects a «significant price reduction» for the weight-loss medicine Mounjaro, manufactured by Eli Lilly. Michael Barry of the NCPE stated that Eli Lilly has offered a reduction that may render the drug cost-effective, a reversal from last year's assessment.

In March, Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill raised concerns about overspending on weight-loss drugs. Last year, the NCPE advised that reimbursing Mounjaro, a once-weekly injection, would not be «value for money,» estimating a five-year cost of €5.2 billion for the HSE reimbursement scheme. With the new offer, Barry anticipates the drug will be deemed cost-effective or very close, though exact figures are pending. He noted the medication could still cost the state €2-3 billion over five years.

Obesity specialist Donal O’Shea called this a «big moment,» arriving sooner than expected. He emphasized Mounjaro's potential to transform Ireland's health profile by treating obesity and reducing associated illnesses like type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. O’Shea acknowledged the challenge of investing for benefits that are not financially visible.