The Story of Eli Lilly and Company

For more than 150 years, Eli Lilly and Company has focused on improving lives through medical innovation, scientific research, and patient care.

The company was founded by Colonel Eli Lilly, who believed in continuously improving healthcare and helping communities through better medicines. His vision still guides the company today.

Over the years, Lilly has introduced important medical treatments, supported global health programs, and invested in research to solve some of the world’s biggest healthcare challenges.

Important Moments in Lilly’s History

1906 – Supporting Communities in Crisis

Lilly helped people affected by the San Francisco earthquake by replacing lost medical supplies at no cost.

1917 – Helping During World War I

Working with the American Red Cross, Lilly helped establish a medical field hospital in France to care for wounded soldiers during World War I.

1923 – Introducing the First Commercial Insulin

Lilly launched the world’s first commercially available insulin treatment for diabetes, giving hope to patients living with a disease that previously had very limited treatment options.

1940s – Advancing Antibiotic Production

Lilly became one of the first companies to mass-produce penicillin, helping fight infectious diseases around the world.

1955 – Polio Vaccine Distribution

The company helped manufacture and distribute the Salk Polio Vaccine globally, supporting efforts to protect millions from polio.

1961 – Cancer Treatment Innovation

Lilly introduced one of its first cancer medicines derived from the Madagascar periwinkle plant to help treat several forms of cancer.

1982 – A Breakthrough in Diabetes Care

Lilly launched Humulin®, the world’s first insulin made using recombinant DNA technology, closely matching the insulin naturally produced by the human body.

1986 – Depression Treatment

Lilly introduced Prozac®, a medicine used in the treatment of clinical depression, helping improve mental health care worldwide.

1996 – Expanding Mental Health and Cancer Treatments

The company introduced new medicines for schizophrenia and several types of cancer, continuing its focus on serious health conditions.

2000s – Global Health and Community Support

Lilly expanded programs supporting diabetes care, tuberculosis treatment, mental health awareness, and employee volunteer initiatives worldwide.

2018 – Diabetes Support Programs

The company launched the Lilly Diabetes Solution Center to help patients in the U.S. access insulin support and payment assistance.

2019 – Expanding Cancer Research

Lilly acquired Loxo Oncology to strengthen its cancer treatment research and innovation.

2020 – Fighting COVID-19

Lilly supported global COVID-19 response efforts by providing testing support, donating protective equipment, and developing antibody treatments.

2022 – New Diabetes Treatment

The company introduced Mounjaro®, an advanced treatment option for diabetes management.

2023 – Expanding Weight Management Treatments

Lilly launched Zepbound® for chronic weight management and expanded affordable insulin access programs.

2024 – Alzheimer’s Disease Innovation

The company introduced Kisunla®, its first treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, marking an important step in neurological care.

Lilly also launched LillyDirect®, a platform designed to improve patient access to healthcare services and treatments.

2025 and Beyond – Investing in the Future

Lilly announced major investments in new manufacturing and research facilities to help reach more patients globally and continue advancing medicine for future generations.

A Legacy of Care and Innovation

Today, Eli Lilly and Company continues to focus on discovering new medicines, supporting communities, and improving patient care around the world through science, compassion, and innovation.