The European Coalition for People Living with Obesity (ECPO) is deeply concerned about the recent announcement that the private price of Eli Lilly’s injectable treatment for type 2 diabetes and weight management will rise possibly up to170% in the UK and Northern Ireland from September 1st 2025 following a decision by the manufacturer to “align with EU pricing.”
This sudden and dramatic increase will put a proven and effective treatment for obesity and diabetes out of reach for many people who depend on it as part of their ongoing care.
Trusted partners of ECPO have been sharing details of this development — you can read more via Ted Kyle’s ConscienHealth’s coverage here and the announcement video from Dr Michael Crotty on Facebook.
Impact on People Living with Obesity
For those already prescribed this treatment privately, the sharp increase may cause immediate disruption to treatment plans. Access to effective care is essential for obesity management, and price rises of this scale can create significant barriers — both financial and emotional.
We recommend contacting your healthcare provider as soon as possible for guidance and support. They will be best placed to help you explore your options, which may include switching to a different medication or lowering your dosage.
It’s important to know that this price increase appears to have not been communicated to healthcare providers (GPs, prescribers) in advance. Your Doctor or Pharmacist is not at fault — in fact, they may be finding out about this change at the same time as you.
ECPO’s Position
Obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease that requires long-term, sustainable treatment. Access to effective quality medication should be guided by clinical need — not driven solely by market forces. Sudden and extreme price changes risk deepening health inequalities and undermining patient care.
ECPO President Diana Castillo said: “We know this news will worry many people living with overweight and obesity, especially those already managing complex treatment plans.
While we await more details, ECPO will continue to stand alongside our community, working for access to safe, effective, and affordable care for everyone who needs it”
Meanwhile Ken Clare from UKCPO, a patient organisation in the UK said “We have had many enquiries from members who are extremely anxious about how they can afford to contribute to fund treatment.
People are concerned they will have to seek cheaper less reliable sources with the risks that could entail. Up to 170% increases will put many people beyond treatment.”
We encourage everyone living with obesity to seek updates from trusted, evidence-based sources. We will keep our ECPO website and social media channels updated as soon as new trusted information becomes available.