Over the past several months, Benecard has closely tracked the rapid evolution of GLP-1 therapies, from expanding coverage and rising costs to the emergence of oral and next-generation treatments. That pace of innovation continues to accelerate—raising the clinical ceiling while intensifying cost and access pressure for employers and health plans.
Next-Generation Weight Loss Drug Developments
Eli Lilly’s latest results for retatrutide illustrate the rapid evolution of weight loss drugs. The triple-agonist therapy, which activates 3 receptors in the body (GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon) to more effectively manage blood sugar and weight, delivered nearly 29% average weight loss in patients with obesity and knee osteoarthritis, along with meaningful pain reduction. 1
Concurrently, recent trials indicate that the company is aiming to broaden the use of its oral GLP-1 drug, orforglipron, as a maintenance solution to weight loss. The drug has also been awarded a national priority review voucher by the FDA, potentially accelerating regulatory decision timelines.2 These latest developments highlight how next-generation GLP-1 drugs may impact both utilization and pharmacy spend as it relates to shorter-term and long-term therapies.
Additionally, investment in companies like Prolynx points to a new wave of long-acting obesity treatments designed for monthly or quarterly dosing. These innovations would aim to improve adherence and persistence by addressing real-world limitations of today’s weekly GLP-1 regimens, further expanding utilization.3
Financial Pressure Continues to Build
Together, these breakthroughs suggest a future in which GLP-1 therapies are more powerful, more durable, and more broadly indicated. While the clinical promise is compelling, the financial implications for plan sponsors are significant, particularly without clear clinical guardrails and utilization oversight.
At Benecard Services, we see this moment as an opportunity for smarter benefit design. Rather than blanket exclusions, we help clients implement clinically informed strategies that balance patient access with long-term cost sustainability. For more details regarding Benecard’s comprehensive GLP-1 strategy, visit our Thought Leadership blog to view our article on strategic GLP-1 drug management.
Sources:
Lilly’s three-pronged drug puts obesity field ‘on notice’ | BioPharma Dive
Lilly obesity pill, headed for quick FDA review, hits mark in ‘maintenance’ trial | BioPharma Dive
Prolynx banks $70M for longer-lasting obesity drugs | BioPharma Dive
