Lumvoa and Tepezza: the landscape of specific TED treatments
Until recently, people with moderate to severe TED had few options beyond surgery and corticosteroids, with all the side effects those approaches carry. The landscape has changed.
Tepezza, whose active ingredient is teprotumumab, was the first medication specifically approved for TED in the United States. It works by blocking the IGF-1R receptor, one of the components that fuels ocular inflammation. The result is a reduction in proptosis and swelling around the eyes. The administration is intravenous, every three weeks. The treatment requires structure and medical supervision.
In June 2026, the FDA approved Lumvoa from Viridian Therapeutics. It competes directly with Tepezza but has an important practical difference: it is given subcutaneously, which means the patient can self-administer at home without needing to visit a clinic. The target is the same, IGF-1R, and the efficacy and safety profile is comparable in available studies.
The arrival of Lumvoa matters for two reasons. First, it gives patients more options. Second, competition tends to push prices down over time. High costs have been a real barrier for people who need Tepezza.
A question that comes up often: is there any interaction between GLP-1 and these medications? The honest answer is that there are still no robust data on combined use. But there is something concrete patients can do: inform their doctor of all medications they are taking. Everything, including GLP-1. Transparency prevents problems.
The Ozempro app lets you record all medications in one place, making it easier to communicate with any health professional. For people taking GLP-1 alongside Tepezza or Lumvoa, having this list organized makes a difference at appointment time.
