Current consensus is that GLP-1 treatment benefits outweigh the risk of EWDR: the drugs reduce the risk of further microvascular damage from poor glycemic control and reduce the chance of death from cardiovascular disease, while the impact on DR is short-lived and can be treated
Education is also crucial
As of February 23, 2026, Eli Lilly & Company has a promotion for the Zepbound Self Pay Journey Program, which lowers rates to $449 for each 1-month supply of the 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg Zepbound single-dose vial or Zepbound KwikPen for single-patient-use
Understanding retatrutide pricing in the context of months or years of use changes the economic calculus
A manufacturer like iCare appeals to them because it allows them to access a serum-driven, active-driven skincare brand model without first learning formulation science, ingredient compatibility, packaging sourcing, and labeling production