Strive sues Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk over GLP-1 access

GILBERT, Ariz. — Strive Compounding Pharmacy has filed a federal antitrust lawsuit against Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, accusing the drugmakers of engaging in anti-competitive conduct designed to suppress lawful compounded GLP-1 medications and limit patient choice.

The complaint, filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, claims that the defendants used their dominant market positions to discourage healthcare providers, telehealth platforms, and patients from prescribing or accessing compounded GLP-1 therapies. Strive argues that these actions harmed the compounding pharmacy sector, which it views as a legitimate and vital part of the U.S. healthcare system.

The full complaint can be found here: https://www.strivepharmacy.com/antitrustlawsuit

According to the filing, compounding pharmacies play a vital role by providing patient-specific medications when commercially manufactured products are unavailable, unsuitable, or in shortage. Strive argues that limiting access to compounded GLP-1s reduces competition and hinders clinical decision-making between providers and patients.

“For us, this is more than just a business dispute; it’s a fight for the right of every patient to have access to the medicine their doctor prescribes,” said Nate Hill, co-founder and CEO of Strive Compounding Pharmacy, in a statement. Hill added that the lawsuit seeks to protect fair competition and preserve access to customized therapies relied upon by many patients.

Strive Compounding Pharmacy is represented by BakerHostetler. The case is Strive Specialties Inc. v. Eli Lilly & Co. et al., filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas. 

Strive Compounding Pharmacy stated that it is taking action to defend the importance of compounding pharmacies in supplying medications during shortages and meeting individual patient needs that may not be fulfilled by FDA-approved products.