A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine indicates a significant shift in the prescription patterns of GLP-1 drugs, which are primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes. The study reveals an alarming trend: while the proportion of people with diabetes receiving these medications has decreased from nearly 90% to over 70% between 2019 and 2023, the percentage of new users without diabetes has increased from 10% to 25%.
Doctors are increasingly recognizing the potential benefits of GLP-1 drugs, such as Wegovy, for treating obesity, particularly following the FDA’s 2021 approval for weight loss treatment. This change highlights a growing focus on obesity as a public health concern. However, it also raises critical issues regarding the availability of these essential medications, particularly for patients who need them to manage diabetes. Yee Hui Yeo, co-first author of the study, emphasized this dual dynamic, stressing the importance of ensuring continued access for those with diabetes amid rising demand for the drugs among patients without the condition.
The study analyzed medical records from 45 million American patients, and while indications of a trend are evident, the data comes from TriNetX, a healthcare software company, which may not fully represent national statistics.
As demand has surged, both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are facing production challenges. Their rapid growth in sales has positioned them as leading pharmaceutical companies worldwide. They have invested significantly to scale up production in response to an expected global market growth that could reach $105 billion by 2030. Analysts predict that by 2035, approximately 31.5 million Americans, or about 9% of the population, could be using these medications.
As we navigate these changes, it is essential to strike a balance between managing obesity and maintaining access to GLP-1 drugs for those who genuinely need them to manage diabetes. This situation not only underscores the growing acknowledgment of the obesity epidemic but also opens avenues for further research and innovation in weight management therapies. The medical community must remain vigilant to ensure that all patients continue to receive the care they require while exploring solutions for the production challenges faced by manufacturers.