Washington — Tension briefly filled the room at a White House event hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump when a man collapsed during a discussion aimed at reducing weight-loss drug prices. Medical staff worked diligently to assist the man, and the event paused for nearly an hour until he was confirmed to be safe.
The incident coincided with remarks from Eli Lilly CEO David Ricks, who was outlining a new agreement with the U.S. government regarding pricing for popular weight-loss drugs. The individual, identified as a pharmaceutical representative, fainted while standing alongside Trump administration figures behind the president’s desk.
“Are you alright?” Ricks was overheard asking as nearby individuals helped the man to the ground. Reportedly, attendees had stood in the warm Oval Office for about 30 minutes before the event turned concerning.
Trump promptly stepped away from his desk as medical professionals tended to the situation. The individual received an evaluation from Mehmet Oz, the administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, who later confirmed that he was doing well.
“He felt a bit light-headed… You saw him go down. He’s okay,” Trump remarked after the event resumed. “He’s being looked after by doctors.”
Later on, David Ricks followed up in a press conference to clarify that the man, named Gordon, was a guest from Eli Lilly.
“He became faint — it’s a bit warm, and you stand a long time here,” Ricks explained. “The White House medical team was excellent. He’s fine, nothing to worry about.”
At the same gathering, President Trump unveiled important pricing agreements with major pharmaceutical companies, including Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk. The aim is to make renowned GLP-1 weight-loss medications, such as Zepbound and Wegovy, more accessible to American consumers.
“These companies have consented to provide significant discounts on their leading weight-loss drugs,” Trump declared. “This will aid Americans needing access to these essential treatments.”
GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, have become increasingly sought after due to their effectiveness in encouraging weight loss, yet their steep costs—often over $1,000 monthly—have raised significant affordability issues within the U.S.
Through this new agreement, Trump’s administration intends to cut prices while alleviating tariff anxieties surrounding the pharmaceutical market.
A drone strike near Dubai Airport hit a fuel tank and caused a large fire. Flights were temporarily
Donald Trump says the US will focus on ending the Iran conflict before dealing with Cuba, even as ta
Federal government signs landmark agreements with Musqueam Nation, recognizing Aboriginal rights whi
Canada’s labour market faltered with a sharp drop in employment and higher unemployment, marking the
