New Weight Loss Pills Launch in Israel Amidst Affordability Concerns

Israel will become the fourth country globally to offer Foundayo, a new weight loss pill developed by Eli Lilly, with sales commencing in pharmacies on September 15. This medication belongs to the GLP-1 class, similar to popular weight loss injections, but offers the convenience of a once-daily oral tablet that does not require refrigeration or strict adherence to a schedule. This ease of use is expected to appeal to individuals who are hesitant about injectable treatments for obesity.

The monthly cost for Foundayo is projected to range from 692 to 1146 shekels, depending on the dosage. Currently, the drug is not covered by Israel's national health basket or the supplementary insurance programs offered by health maintenance organizations (HMOs), meaning patients will bear the full expense. Dr. Lior Neumann, an obesity and diabetes specialist, highlighted that the price remains a significant barrier for many, noting that even existing injectable medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro, available with discounts through supplementary insurance, cost hundreds of shekels monthly.

Clinical studies indicate Foundayo's effectiveness, with participants on the maximum dosage losing an average of 12.4% of their body weight over 72 weeks, and nearly 60% achieving at least a 10% weight reduction. The drug also showed improvements in waist circumference, cholesterol, and blood pressure. However, it is considered less potent than some injectable alternatives, such as Mounjaro, which has demonstrated up to 22.5% weight loss in studies.

Doctors suggest Foundayo could be a viable option for those averse to injections and for maintaining weight loss achieved with other GLP-1 medications. Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, leading about 10% of study participants to discontinue the drug. It may also affect the efficacy of certain medications, including oral contraceptives.

Looking ahead, Israel anticipates the release of other obesity treatments, including an oral version of Wegovy and new, potentially more effective drugs. Experts describe the obesity medication market as rapidly evolving, but emphasize that lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, remain crucial for sustained results.