A first-of-its-kind real-world study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism shows that sustained use of Zepbound among adults over 55 with overweight or obesity lowers overall healthcare costs over time, according to data announced by Eli Lilly and Company. Researchers found that patients staying on the tirzepatide treatment experienced lower rates of hospital admissions and emergency department visits compared to untreated peers, translating to significant savings that offset treatment expenses by the 12-month mark.
Healthcare Cost Reductions and Treatment Timelines
According to Eli Lilly, the retrospective observational study utilized Komodo’s Healthcare Map—which draws from de-identified claims data covering over 330 million individuals—to track 15,843 adults aged above 55 with a mean age of 64.5. The analysis evaluated patients with obesity or overweight alongside at least one obesity-related complication who initiated Zepbound between November 2023 and September 2025. Researchers matched each Zepbound user 1:1 with an untreated control group based on baseline demographics, clinical traits, and prior healthcare utilization.
To evaluate cost trajectories, investigators applied two complementary analytic methods: a pairwise analysis comparing direct matched pairs and an Inverse Probability of Censoring Weighting (IPCW) model to account for patients leaving the study early. Both methods demonstrated lower monthly healthcare costs for sustained Zepbound users when excluding the cost of the drug itself:
- At 6 months: Costs were up to 15% lower, reflecting a difference of up to $181 per patient, per month in the pairwise analysis, and a 12% lower increase ($145 per patient, per month) in the IPCW primary analysis.
- At 12 months: The financial difference widened significantly. The pairwise analysis showed an estimated difference of up to $607 per patient, per month (38% lower costs), while the IPCW approach showed up to $319 per patient, per month (25% lower costs).
Implications for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program
The findings carry direct relevance for the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge program, providing economic context as policymakers evaluate long-term coverage. According to Eli Lilly data, estimated healthcare savings nearly covered the program’s monthly treatment cost of $195 per patient, per month by the six-month mark. By 12 months, the calculated healthcare savings exceeded the treatment cost, pointing to potential systemic savings in an aging population.
“This compelling real-world evidence highlights the impact that treating obesity with Zepbound can have on older patients and the healthcare system,” said Ilya Yuffa, executive vice president and president, Lilly USA and Global Customer Capabilities, in a statement. Yuffa noted that the data should help shape coverage decisions as access expands across Medicare, state programs, and employers.
Did you know? Zepbound is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that addresses underlying causes of excess weight by reducing appetite and food intake. In addition to weight management, it is FDA-approved to treat adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea and obesity.
Care Engagement and Safety Considerations
Beyond emergency and inpatient reductions, the primary analysis revealed that Zepbound-treated adults maintained numerically higher rates of routine outpatient and office visits across every follow-up period. Researchers noted this trend aligns with greater patient engagement in routine, preventative care.
Patients considering the medication must navigate strict safety warnings and guidelines. According to prescribing information, Zepbound may cause tumors in the thyroid, including thyroid cancer, and should not be used if you or any of your family have ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach (abdominal) pain, indigestion, injection site reactions, feeling tired, allergic reactions, belching, hair loss, and heartburn, while serious risks involve severe stomach problems, dehydration leading to kidney problems, gallbladder problems, and inflammation of the pancreas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was included in the Zepbound cost study?
The study evaluated 15,843 adults aged above 55 with a mean age of 64.5 who had obesity or overweight with at least one obesity-related complication and initiated Zepbound between November 2023 and September 2025.
How were healthcare cost savings calculated?
Researchers used claims data from Komodo’s Healthcare Map and applied two statistical methods—pairwise analysis and Inverse Probability of Censoring Weighting—to compare monthly healthcare expenditures against a matched, untreated control group while excluding the direct net price of Zepbound.
What effect did Zepbound have on hospital visits?
According to the primary analysis, patients treated with Zepbound experienced lower rates of hospital admissions and emergency department visits across every follow-up period.