A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a notable shift in the prescribing patterns for GLP-1 medications, which were initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes. The research indicates that the proportion of people without diabetes being prescribed these drugs is increasing, while prescriptions for those with diabetes are declining. This trend raises concerns regarding potential medication shortages for individuals who rely on these treatments.
GLP-1 medications, which include popular drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic, are designed to mimic a hormone that regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite. Since the FDA approved Wegovy for weight loss in 2021, both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly have faced challenges in keeping up with the growing demand for these medications.
The researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center analyzed the medical records of 45 million Americans and found that the percentage of new GLP-1 users with type 2 diabetes dropped from nearly 90% in 2019 to just over 70% in 2023. Meanwhile, the share of new users without diabetes increased from 10% to 25%. This data suggests a shift among healthcare providers toward recognizing the benefits of GLP-1 medications for weight management, which reflects a broader public health trend.
Despite the increased utilization of these drugs in treating obesity, experts caution that ensuring access for those with diabetes remains crucial. The study, which utilized data from the healthcare software company TriNetX, does have limitations regarding national representation.
The rising popularity of GLP-1 medications has significantly boosted the market for these drugs, transforming Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk into some of the most valuable pharmaceutical companies globally. However, this surge in demand has created challenges for patients seeking to fill their prescriptions. Both companies have invested heavily in increasing their production capabilities to meet this growing need.
Morgan Stanley analysts project that the global market for GLP-1 drugs is expected to reach $105 billion by 2030, with approximately 31.5 million people in the U.S. anticipated to be using these medications by 2035, accounting for about 9% of the population.
This situation highlights an ongoing evolution in medical treatment approaches, emphasizing the potential of GLP-1 medications in addressing obesity alongside their traditional use for diabetes management. As the industry responds to the rising demand, there is hope that advancements in production will lead to better accessibility for all patients in need.
Summary: A study shows an increase in the prescription of GLP-1 drugs to non-diabetic patients while prescriptions for diabetic patients are declining, raising concerns about potential medication shortages. This shift indicates a growing recognition of the drugs for weight management, reflecting a broader public health trend. The market for these medications is expected to expand significantly, which may improve accessibility if production can keep pace.