Eli Lilly CEO tells CNBC one-third of new GLP-1 pill patients are taking Foundayo, as drugmaker ramps up production

by | Sep 27, 2026 | Business

Eli Lilly CEO tells CNBC one-third of new GLP-1 pill patients are taking Foundayo, as drugmaker ramps up production

Eli Lilly’s Chief Executive Officer stated during an exclusive interview that approximately one-third of patients newly prescribed GLP-1 pills are selecting Foundayo, the company’s oral formulation for weight management. The executive indicated that Lilly’s portion of the oral medication market is expanding on a weekly basis, and expressed confidence regarding the company’s long-term competitive standing in this segment, particularly as Lilly prepares to expand Foundayo availability across additional global markets.

Lilly marked a significant development milestone by breaking ground on a major manufacturing complex in Houston, Texas, representing the company’s continued commitment to domestic production. The Generation Park facility, valued at $6.5 billion, is anticipated to commence operations by 2030. In addition to producing Foundayo, the complex will serve as a manufacturing hub for the active pharmaceutical ingredients used in Lilly’s portfolio of small-molecule treatments spanning multiple therapeutic areas including cardiometabolic conditions, cancer care, immune system disorders, and neurological conditions.

The groundbreaking announcement coincided with a notable decline in Lilly’s primary competitor’s share price, following investor concerns regarding competitive positioning in the obesity and diabetes treatment market. Lilly previously communicated that it maintained approximately 61% of the overall market during the second quarter. The company has positioned manufacturing infrastructure as a core strategic advantage alongside its drug pipeline when competing against rivals in this space.

The Houston facility represents one component of Lilly’s broader domestic manufacturing expansion strategy. Earlier in 2025, Lilly pledged an additional $27 billion toward constructing four new production sites. Since 2020, the organization has committed more than $50 billion toward expanding manufacturing capabilities to support escalating demand for obesity and diabetes therapies. Foundayo generated $98 million in sales during its first three-month period following its market entry in April. Recent Medicare coverage expansion for obesity medications is anticipated to increase patient access to both Foundayo and Lilly’s injectable weight loss treatment.

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