Lilly uses Oscars Ad to warn against unapproved GLP-1 drugs

USA – Eli Lilly is intensifying its efforts to steer consumers toward FDA-approved weight-loss drugs and away from unregulated alternatives.

During the 2025 Oscars, the pharmaceutical giant aired a 30-second commercial warning people about copycat versions of its weight-loss drug Zepbound (tirzepatide).

The ad presents a hypothetical conversation where a friend, family member, or influencer suggests a “natural” weight-loss option that is available without a prescription and free from “government regulations.” The pitch ends with the dismissive phrase: “Trust me, bro.”

Lilly’s response? “Be a healthy skeptic.” The company urges viewers to question unapproved products, which could be compounded versions of tirzepatide, questionable dietary supplements, or even counterfeits that might contain no active ingredient or harmful contaminants.

“Tested, trialed, and approved medicine doesn’t need your faith,” the ad states, reinforcing the importance of regulated treatments.

A growing battle over GLP-1 drugs

This marks Lilly’s second year using the Oscars as a platform to shape public perception of GLP-1-based weight-loss drugs. In 2024, the company aired a message discouraging the use of such medications for cosmetic purposes.

The latest ad also comes in response to a Super Bowl commercial by telehealth provider Hims & Hers, which supplies compounded GLP-1 drugs.

That ad accused big pharma of keeping prices high and blocking access to affordable weight-loss treatments.

FDA moves to restrict compounded versions

While Lilly and Novo Nordisk (maker of Wegovy) are fighting back through advertising, the FDA has also stepped in.

The agency recently declared an end to shortages of tirzepatide (Zepbound) and semaglutide (Wegovy), meaning compounding pharmacies can no longer legally produce these drugs.

Under FDA rules:

• Compounding pharmacies and physician compounders had to stop selling tirzepatide by February 18.
• Outsourcing facilities must cease production by March 19.
• For semaglutide (Wegovy), the cutoff dates are April 22 for state-licensed compounders and May 22 for outsourcing facilities.