Eli Lilly Beats Estimates and Raises Outlook on Strong Zepbound and Mounjaro Sales
Eli Lilly reported third‑quarter earnings and revenue that exceeded analyst expectations, prompting the company to lift its full‑year financial guidance. The pharmaceutical giant highlighted robust demand for its flagship weight‑loss treatments, Zepbound and Mounjaro, which have driven a notable uptick in overall sales performance.
Revenue for the quarter reached $9.1 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of $8.6 billion, while earnings per share came in at $2.84, ahead of the projected $2.56. Sales of Zepbound and Mounjaro together grew by more than 70 % year over year, contributing roughly $3.2 billion of the quarter’s total revenue. The company also noted modest growth in its diabetes and oncology portfolios, though the weight‑loss segment accounted for the bulk of the earnings surprise.
Industry analysts attribute the surge to the expanding market for obesity‑related therapeutics, a sector that has seen heightened consumer interest and increased insurance coverage in recent years. The competitive landscape remains intense, with several peers launching or advancing their own weight‑loss drugs. Nonetheless, experts say Eli Lilly’s early entry and strong clinical data have helped it secure a leading position. Company officials emphasized that the products’ efficacy and convenient dosing schedules are key factors behind sustained patient uptake.
Looking ahead, Eli Lilly raised its full‑year revenue outlook to a range of $38 billion to $40 billion and projected earnings per share between $11.20 and $11.60. The firm plans to continue investing in pipeline development, particularly in next‑generation metabolic treatments, while monitoring potential supply‑chain constraints. Analysts view the updated guidance as a positive signal, though they caution that future regulatory scrutiny and pricing pressures could temper growth. Overall, the strong quarterly performance underscores Eli Lilly’s strategic focus on high‑growth therapeutic areas and positions the company well for the remainder of the fiscal year.
