Price hike follows U.S. pressure on pharma
Eli Lilly & Co. will raise the UK list price for its obesity shot Mounjaro by as much as 170% from September 1. The current monthly price of £92 to £122 will jump to between £133 and £330, depending on the dose. The change comes as U.S. President Donald Trump urges drugmakers to raise prices in Europe and lower them in the U.S., giving companies 60 days to comply. Lilly said the increase aligns UK rates with global averages after an initial discount was set to speed National Health Service access.
Impact on patients and providers
Although the new UK price remains well below the over $1,000 monthly cost in the U.S., the increase has sparked affordability concerns among patients, many of whom obtain the drug privately due to strict NHS eligibility rules. While negotiated agreements with private providers may cushion the impact, pharmacies and online clinics such as Boots, Superdrug, Juniper, and Voy will face decisions on whether to pass on the higher costs. If prices rise significantly for patients, some may switch to rival Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy, which has not announced a similar increase.
Market and access considerations
The UK was among the first countries to offer Mounjaro, initially at prices below the European average. Lilly said the new list price reflects updated clinical evidence and aims for a fairer global contribution to innovation costs. The company is working with private providers to maintain patient access and has reached an agreement with the NHS to ensure continued supply. Industry analysts note that the obesity drug market remains competitive, with pricing strategies likely to shape patient demand and brand loyalty.
