A new study has highlighted a significant trend in the U.S. healthcare landscape: one in eight adults has now tried the groundbreaking GLP-1 class of drugs, which includes popular medications like Ozempic and Zepbound. These drugs, initially developed for diabetes treatment, have gained widespread attention for their effectiveness in obesity management as well.
Rapid Adoption and Continued Use
According to the health research organization KFF, about half of the individuals who have tried these drugs are still using them. If these survey results are indicative of the broader population, this could mean that approximately 30 million Americans have experimented with these treatments. This widespread adoption reflects the urgent need for effective solutions in a country where obesity and diabetes rates have been escalating for decades.
The Cost Barrier
Despite their popularity, the cost of GLP-1 drugs remains a significant barrier. The survey reveals that over half of the respondents find these medications hard to afford, even with the aid of coupons and insurance. A typical monthly supply of Ozempic, for example, can cost close to $1,000 before any discounts or rebates are applied. Although insurance does cover part or all of the costs for many, the financial burden is still notable.
Expanding Applications and Insurance Coverage
The scope of these medications is broadening, with ongoing research into their potential applications for other conditions such as Alzheimer’s and sleep apnea. This expansion could increase their utility and justify broader insurance coverage, which remains a contentious issue. Currently, Medicare does not cover these drugs for weight loss alone, which significantly limits access for those over 65.
Public Perception and Support
The KFF poll also sheds light on the changing public perception regarding these treatments. Approximately a third of adults reported significant awareness of GLP-1 drugs, a notable increase from earlier in the year. The poll indicates a strong public support across political lines for Medicare to cover weight loss treatments, reflecting a growing acknowledgment of obesity as a critical, treatable health issue.
Looking Ahead
With celebrity endorsements boosting their popularity and ongoing shortages due to high demand, GLP-1 drugs are at a crossroads of public health and economic accessibility. As the market for these drugs is projected to reach at least $80 billion by 2030, the decisions made now about insurance coverage and cost management will have long-lasting impacts on their accessibility and effectiveness in combating obesity and related health conditions.
This surge in popularity, coupled with the significant barriers to access, underscores the need for a balanced approach to healthcare innovation that considers both efficacy and equality of access. The ongoing discussion about Medicare coverage and the potential reduction in costs could be pivotal in shaping the future landscape of obesity treatment in the U.S.
@overwi.se 1 in 8 that’s staggering amount of people that tried GLP1 !!