Drug Executive Collapses During Oval Office Announcement
During a Thursday press conference in the Oval Office, a drug executive fainted while President Donald Trump announced a deal with pharmaceutical companies aimed at reducing obesity drug prices.
Incident Details
The event was interrupted when Gordon Findlay, believed to be the global brand director for Novo Nordisk, suddenly collapsed. David Ricks, CEO of Eli Lilly, noticed and asked,
“Are you OK? Gordon, are you OK?”
Response and Assistance
Dr. Mehmet Oz, the administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, immediately intervened as Findlay fell to his knees. The press was then asked to leave the room.
Context of the Announcement
President Trump, along with drugmakers from Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, was discussing a new agreement to expand coverage and lower the prices of popular obesity medications, Zepbound and Wegovy.
Additional Attendees
- David Ricks, Eli Lilly CEO
- Dr. Mehmet Oz, CMS Administrator
- Health and Human Services Secretary (present during the incident)
President Trump observed as Dr. Oz and others helped Gordon Findlay during the emergency.
Author’s summary: The press conference promoting a drug price reduction deal was unexpectedly halted when Novo Nordisk’s Gordon Findlay collapsed, prompting immediate medical aid from Dr. Mehmet Oz.