The Indianapolis drugmaker's price cuts and discounts for insulin come as federal and state lawmakers and patient advocates pressure drug companies and health insurers to improve affordability for the life-saving medication used by millions of Americans. 

“The aggressive price cuts we’re announcing today should make a real difference for Americans with diabetes," said Lilly's Chair and CEO David Ricks. 

li Lilly discounts Humalog and Humulin insulin

The drugmaker will cut list prices by 70% for the fast-acting injectable Humalog, which is the company's most commonly prescribed insulin. The discount applies to several Humalog products, including Humalog U-100, Humalog Mix 50/50 and Humalog Mix 75/25. Lilly will also discount an older fast-acting drug, Humulin.

The price changes will take effect between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31. Lilly also will reduce the price of its non-branded, fast-acting insulin to $25 a vial, effective May 1.  On April 1, Lilly also will launch a biosimilar to Sanofi's Lantus that will be less expensive version of the long-acting insulin. The new drug, Rezvoglar, will be interchangeable with Lantus, which means a pharmacist can substitute the drug without a new prescription. Rezvoglar will cost $92 per five pack of KwikPens, a 78% discount to Lantus, Lilly said.