Eli Lilly Granted Compassionate Use of Experimental Obesity Drug to 79-Year-Old Patient

WASHINGTON — Millions of Americans with obesity are eagerly awaiting a powerful new drug from Eli Lilly called retatrutide, which has demonstrated weight loss comparable to bariatric surgery. Some patients are seeking access to the medication through unofficial channels before FDA approval.

However, STAT has learned that Eli Lilly and the FDA have granted access to retatrutide through the agency’s “compassionate use” program, which provides experimental treatments to patients with serious, life-threatening conditions. The recipient was a 79-year-old man who submitted a request in April, according to three sources familiar with the matter. These sources, who spoke anonymously due to concerns about retaliation, indicated the case attracted the attention of senior health officials, suggesting the individual may have special connections.

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