US President Donald Trump announced a new deal aimed at reducing the prices of weight loss medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, during a press conference in the Oval Office. The initiative, which focuses on making GLP-1 drugs more accessible, was presented as a major economic victory by the Trump administration. Trump emphasized that these medications, which have been in the news for their effectiveness in weight management and diabetes treatment, will now be available at significantly reduced rates to American patients.
During the press conference, Trump held a press briefing alongside executives from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, two of the leading manufacturers of these drugs. The executives were present to discuss the details of the new agreement, which includes the launch of a new government website, TrumpRx, set to go live in early 2026. Through this platform, patients will have access to oral versions of the drugs, starting at $149 per month, while injectable versions for Medicare and Medicaid patients will cost $245 per month. These price reductions are intended to make the medications more affordable, particularly for those suffering from diabetes and obesity.
The announcement was abruptly interrupted when a pharmaceutical executive collapsed behind the president. Multiple reports from the scene described the incident as sudden and alarming. The executive, who was identified as a Novo Nordisk representative, was quickly assisted by onlookers, including Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator of CMS. Officials at the scene ensured the executive was not injured during the fall, and the White House Press Secretary later confirmed that the individual was fine. The incident has sparked speculation about the reasons behind the collapse and raised concerns about the high-stress environment in which these negotiations often take place.
The event underscores the intense scrutiny surrounding the pharmaceutical industry, particularly its pricing practices for drugs that have become increasingly popular for their weight management and health benefits. As Trump’s administration moves forward with its plans to lower costs and increase access, the reactions from the pharmaceutical sector will undoubtedly play a critical role in shaping the future of these medications in the U.S. market.