Historical Context: Navigating Past Zepbound Supply Issues
The period from 2022 through late 2024 was marked by widespread and significant shortages of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in both Zepbound and its diabetes counterpart, Mounjaro. This scarcity was primarily driven by unprecedented market demand, which Eli Lilly's production capacity initially struggled to meet. At various points, the FDA officially listed most Zepbound doses as having 'limited availability'.
For patients, this meant the process of titrating their dose was often disrupted. Finding a specific dose, particularly the intermediate strengths like 5 mg and 7.5 mg, became a major challenge. During this time, many patients turned to compounded versions of tirzepatide as a more accessible and often more affordable alternative. However, this stop-gap measure was temporary and came with potential risks regarding product safety and quality, as compounded medications are not FDA-approved and do not undergo the same rigorous testing as brand-name drugs.
FDA's Shortage Resolution and the Shift in Access
In a landmark decision in December 2024, the FDA formally declared that the tirzepatide shortage had been resolved, with the manufacturer demonstrating its ability to meet or exceed market demand. This determination, while a positive step for branded product availability, had significant consequences for the market for compounded versions of the drug. The resolution of the official shortage ended the window that permitted compounding pharmacies to produce and sell these cheaper copies.
Following a legal challenge, the FDA reaffirmed its decision and implemented a grace period for compounding pharmacies, with deadlines in early 2025 to cease production. This action effectively funneled patients back toward the FDA-approved product and the official supply chain managed by Eli Lilly. While improving the integrity of the market, this shift also reignited concerns about the affordability of the branded medication for patients without comprehensive insurance coverage.
Current Zepbound Dose Availability in 2025
As of late 2025, the manufacturer Eli Lilly has significantly ramped up production and has confirmed that all six approved doses of Zepbound—2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg—are available. To support this, Eli Lilly has expanded its manufacturing capabilities with new facilities and modernization projects.
Availability is provided through two primary formats:
- Prefilled, Single-Dose Pens: The original auto-injector pens are available through retail and specialty pharmacies. Patients with commercial insurance may be eligible for a savings card to reduce the monthly cost, though coverage can vary.
- Single-Dose Vials: Introduced in 2024 and expanded in 2025, vials are available exclusively through Eli Lilly's direct-to-consumer platform, LillyDirect. The vials offer a lower-cost option for patients paying out-of-pocket and are not eligible for insurance coverage.
Zepbound Vials: An Alternative for Affordability
The introduction of single-dose vials through the LillyDirect Self Pay Journey Program has provided a crucial, transparent, and more affordable pathway for many patients. This is especially beneficial for those whose insurance plans do not cover Zepbound for weight management.
Key features of the vial program include:
- All Doses Available: As of mid-2025, all approved doses (2.5 mg to 15 mg) are available in vial form.
- Fixed Cash Pricing: Under the program, the price for a 1-month supply of vials (excluding the 2.5 mg starter dose) is a fixed rate of $499, provided refills are ordered within 45 days of the previous delivery.
- Direct Access: Orders are fulfilled and shipped directly to the patient's home, streamlining the process.
Comparing Zepbound Pens vs. Vials
For patients and healthcare providers, deciding between pens and vials involves weighing convenience, cost, and administration preference. The differences are significant and can impact a patient's overall experience with the medication.
| Feature | Prefilled Pens (Retail Pharmacies) | Single-Dose Vials (LillyDirect) |
|---|---|---|
| Administration | Convenient, all-in-one auto-injector. No manual mixing or measuring. | Requires a separate syringe and needle for manual drawing and injection. Some training is required. |
| Cost | Typically higher list price (over $1,000 without insurance). Can be covered by insurance or discounted with a savings card for eligible patients. | Offers a significantly lower, fixed cash price ($499/month for maintenance doses via Self Pay Journey Program). Not eligible for insurance coverage or coupons. |
| Insurance | Insurance coverage is possible but varies widely depending on the plan. Many plans exclude weight loss medications. | Not covered by insurance and cannot be billed. A cash-only offering intended for self-pay patients. |
| Availability | Subject to retail pharmacy stock levels, which may fluctuate. Can be impacted by local supply chain dynamics. | Stable availability exclusively through LillyDirect, eliminating uncertainty from local pharmacy shortages. |
| Supplies | All-inclusive device, no additional supplies required beyond the pen itself. | Requires the patient to purchase separate syringes, needles, and alcohol swabs. |
What Patients Should Know About Access
While the widespread shortage is over, accessing Zepbound still requires careful planning and communication with a healthcare provider. Here are some key considerations for patients.
- Retail Pharmacy vs. LillyDirect: For those seeking the convenience of a prefilled pen, retail pharmacies are the point of access. However, potential localized stock issues or insurance coverage limitations mean this is not always a smooth process. Patients without insurance or with poor coverage can benefit significantly from the discounted vials available exclusively through LillyDirect.
- Managing Insurance Coverage Changes: The landscape of insurance coverage for GLP-1 medications is highly dynamic. For example, some major pharmacy benefit managers have recently changed their formulary policies, impacting coverage for Zepbound. Patients should regularly check their insurance plan details and be prepared to explore alternative payment options, such as the LillyDirect vial program, if coverage is lost or restricted.
- Prioritizing Safety: Regardless of the access method, working with a licensed healthcare provider is paramount for ensuring the correct dosage and monitoring for side effects. Always obtain Zepbound through approved channels to avoid the risks associated with unverified or counterfeit products. Eli Lilly provides official updates on product supply and safety on its website, which is a reliable resource for patients.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, are all doses of Zepbound available? is yes, but with important nuances concerning access and format. The FDA’s declaration that the tirzepatide shortage is resolved, coupled with Eli Lilly’s expanded manufacturing and the introduction of vials through LillyDirect, has significantly improved the overall supply situation in 2025. Patients now have distinct pathways to obtain their medication, whether through the traditional retail pharmacy channel for the convenience of auto-injector pens or via LillyDirect for the more affordable single-dose vials. Understanding the differences between these options and staying informed about changing insurance policies are key to navigating a successful and uninterrupted treatment journey. For official, up-to-date information, patients can consult the manufacturer's official supply website.
