The White House is shutting down a new report that suggests that President Donald Trump is currently using an experimental weight loss drug.
Trump's "compassionate use"
STAT News' Lizzy Lawrence published a new report that revealed that pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly had issued one of its experimental new weight loss drugs, retatrutide, to a high-powered individual for "compassionate use."
© Getty ImagesPer the report, the issue was one that drew the attention of "top health officials," and the access was issued to an individual who was 79 years old back in April, leading the journalist to question whether it was possibly for Trump, who turned 80 on June 14.
White House reacts
"Given the demographics and the peculiar nature of the application, I asked the [White House] if this patient was President Trump, who turned 80 a week ago. I did not get a direct answer," she penned.
However, the White House's rapid response team on X quickly issued a reaction to the story, writing in part to Lizzy: "No, it wasn't President Trump — and you people are truly sick and deranged." The president himself has not yet responded on the newest report directly, although this is not a new issue.
Donald Trump's health
This isn't the first time that Trump has spoken about the use of GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. Back in January, when asked by the New York Times whether he had taken any of those drugs, he responded with: "No, I have not. I probably should."
On May 29, Sean Barbabella, the resident White House Physician, issued the latest memorandum on Trump's health after a routine check-up, with the president weighing in at 238 pounds. The report came shortly after Trump sparked discourse over the appearance of bruising on his hands, which the physician apparently attributed to "minor soft tissue irritation related to frequent handshaking."
Despite enduring concerns surrounding his health, especially heading into his 80s, the report concluded with: "President Trump remains in excellent health, demonstrating strong cardiac, pulmonary, neurological, and overall physical function."
© Getty Images"His demanding daily schedule, including multiple high-level meetings, public engagements, and regular physical activity, continues to support his overall well-being. Cognitive and physical performance are excellent. He is fully fit to carry out all duties of the Commander-in-Chief and Head of State."
"Not happy" about turning 80
Trump himself addressed the mix of emotions he experienced ahead of the milestone birthday, telling Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services: "You don't have to wish me happy birthday because I'm not happy about that birthday that I'm having."
© Getty Images"That's a number that I never thought really too much about. It's not a number I like, but I'm here, nevertheless," he continued. The big day was ultimately celebrated with a UFC fight on the White House lawn, in conjunction with the upcoming 250th anniversary of American independence.
