An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified the man who collapsed in the Oval Office as Novo Nordisk executive Gordon Finlay. It has been clarified that he was not present, and the individual’s identity remains unknown. We regret the mistake.
A pharmaceutical industry leader unexpectedly fainted in the Oval Office today during a press briefing.
While positioned behind the US president at an event where the Trump administration was introducing a new agreement for weight-loss medications, the man’s legs gave way suddenly.
Officials from the administration and pharmaceutical companies swiftly rushed to his aid to prevent him from falling. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt disclosed that during the ‘Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement’, a representative from one of the companies collapsed.
She further mentioned that medical personnel on-site promptly attended to him and confirmed his well-being. Leavitt assured that the press briefing would resume as scheduled shortly.
The official statement declared: “During the Most Favored Nations Oval Office Announcement, a representative from one of the companies fainted.
“The White House Medical Unit acted swiftly, and the individual is safe. The Press Conference will recommence shortly.”
Following this incident, reporters were escorted out of the Oval Office as cabinet members provided assistance and elevated the man’s legs. The reason behind his collapse remains undisclosed.
The press conference witnessed executives from pharmaceutical giants Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly joining forces with the Trump administration to unveil a groundbreaking agreement that could have significant implications for the healthcare industry. As part of the plan, the manufacturers of Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound will offer their in-demand treatments directly to the public through TrumpRx – a new government platform set to launch next year.
In a notable benefit for patients, the companies anticipate that an oral version of the medications could be priced at $149 (£113) per month, pending approval from the Food and Drug Administration. Additionally, individuals on Medicare or Medicaid dealing with diabetes and other approved conditions are expected to see a significant reduction in the cost of injectable versions to $245 (£186) per month.
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