Government Signs Deal For COVID-19 Treatments From Eli Lilly

An Eli Lilly researcher tests possible COVID-19 antibodies in a laboratory in Indianapolis.

David Morrison / AP

Eli Lilly has struck a deal with the federal government to provide 300,000 doses of a drug that’s designed to keep people infected with COVID-19 out of the hospital. The cost per dose: $1,250.

The federal government plans to distribute the 300,000 doses at no cost, but that doesn’t mean treatment will be free.

The Lilly drug, a type of monoclonal antibody, is given by intravenous infusion. Those infusions, typically given in hospitals or standalone clinics, can cost well over $1,000. People with health insurance are often required to pay hundreds of dollars in copayments.