Drug Executive Collapses During Oval Office Press Conference
A press conference in the Oval Office was abruptly interrupted when a drug executive fainted while President Donald Trump announced a new deal with pharmaceutical companies to reduce obesity drug prices.
Incident Details
Thursday's event involved President Trump and representatives from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk discussing efforts to expand coverage and lower prices for obesity treatments Zepbound and Wegovy. During remarks by Eli Lilly's CEO David Ricks, he noticed an attendee collapse and asked,
“Are you OK? Gordon, are you OK?”
Response to the Collapse
The man who fainted was identified by Getty Images as Gordon Findlay, Novo Nordisk's global brand director. Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, immediately assisted as Findlay fell to his knees and collapsed. Other officials, including the Health and Human Services Secretary, were present.
The press was swiftly escorted out following the incident.
Key Individuals Involved
- President Donald Trump
- Gordon Findlay, Novo Nordisk Global Brand Director
- David Ricks, Eli Lilly CEO
- Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS Administrator
- Health and Human Services Secretary
“Are you OK? Gordon, are you OK?” — David Ricks
During the announcement about new agreements to make obesity medications more affordable, the sudden health event raised concern but was promptly addressed.
Author's summary: A drug executive fainted at a White House event during President Trump’s announcement on obesity drug pricing, with swift aid from officials and a quick end to the press conference.