The Rise of GLP-1s: Over 30 Million Americans Have Tried Ozempic, Wegovy, or Similar Drugs

A groundbreaking study by the RAND Corporation has cast a spotlight on the unprecedented adoption of GLP-1 agonist drugs, revealing that a staggering 11.8% of American adults—translating to over 30 million people—have already tried these medications, including popular names like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro.

These powerful drugs, initially developed for managing Type 2 diabetes, have exploded in popularity due to their remarkable effectiveness in promoting significant weight loss.

The RAND analysis, based on comprehensive survey data from 2023, underscores a dramatic shift in how Americans are approaching weight management and chronic disease, highlighting a rapid integration of these pharmaceuticals into daily life across various demographics.

The study’s findings paint a vivid picture of who is currently using GLP-1 medications.

Usage patterns exhibit distinct trends across different segments of the population. Women, for instance, are significantly more likely to have tried these drugs than men, with 14.6% of women reporting use compared to 8.9% of men. This disparity suggests varying approaches to health and weight concerns between genders, or potentially differences in prescription rates.

Age also plays a crucial role.

Older adults, specifically those between 50 and 64 years old, show the highest rates of GLP-1 usage, with 17.3% having tried them. This contrasts sharply with younger adults aged 18 to 29, where only 4.2% reported use. This could be attributed to higher prevalence of diabetes and obesity in older populations, or perhaps a greater likelihood of having established medical conditions that warrant such prescriptions.

Socioeconomic factors also contribute to the usage landscape.

Individuals from higher-income households, those earning over $100,000 annually, demonstrate greater access to or propensity for using GLP-1 drugs, with 14.8% reporting use. This is nearly double the rate seen in lower-income households (under $25,000), where usage stands at 7.8%. The significant cost of these medications, often hundreds to over a thousand dollars a month without robust insurance coverage, likely plays a substantial role in this disparity, raising concerns about equitable access.

Unsurprisingly, the study also confirmed a strong correlation between Body Mass Index (BMI) and GLP-1 drug use.

Individuals with a higher BMI, indicative of overweight or obesity, are more likely to have tried these medications, reflecting their primary application in weight management and obesity-related health conditions. This reinforces the drugs' role as a powerful tool in combating the obesity epidemic.

The RAND report not only quantifies the widespread adoption but also prompts critical discussions about the broader implications for public health and policy.

While GLP-1 drugs offer promising solutions for diabetes and obesity, their rapid rise brings forth a complex array of challenges. These include the long-term effects of sustained use, the equitable distribution of these expensive treatments, and the potential strain on healthcare systems and insurance providers.

As millions more Americans consider or begin GLP-1 therapy, understanding these trends is vital for shaping future healthcare strategies and ensuring both access and safety for all.