Eli Lilly is expanding its efforts to market the obesity drug Zepbound, now targeting employers through a new program to subsidize the cost of the drug outside of the insurance system[1]. Zepbound (tirzepatide) is approved as an adjunct to diet and physical activity for long-term weight control in adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater, or 27 kg/m² and higher in the presence of at least one weight-related disease[1]. According to available data, 48% of large employers already pay for branded anti-obesity drugs[1]. The cost of the base dose of 2.5 mg has been reduced to $299 per month through the LillyDirect[2] direct program. GLP-1 drugs (which includes Zepbound) accounted for an average of 10.5% of all employer insurance costs in 2025, up from 8.9% in 2024 and 6.9% in 2023[3]. A common side effect of the drug is nausea or indigestion, and without regular use, weight can return[3]. Eli Lilly reports that affordability of treatment remains a major issue as many people encounter cost and insurance barriers[2].