A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a growing trend where more individuals without diabetes are being prescribed GLP-1 medications, while new prescriptions for diabetes patients are on the decline.
These medications, including Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic, which is now available in pill form, have been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes. However, the authors of the study express concerns regarding potential shortages of these essential drugs.
GLP-1 medications work by mimicking a hormone that manages blood sugar levels and curbs appetite. Initially approved for type 2 diabetes treatment, the FDA expanded the approval in 2021 to include Wegovy for weight loss.
Both Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are currently struggling to keep up with the increasing demand for GLP-1 medications, which include Zepbound, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic.
Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center examined the medical records of 45 million Americans with at least one doctor’s visit between 2011 and 2023. Their findings showed that the percentage of new GLP-1 users with type 2 diabetes decreased from nearly 90% to over 70% from 2019 to 2023, while the share of new users without diabetes increased from 10% to 25%.
“This data suggests that more healthcare providers are recognizing the benefits of these medications for treating obesity, indicating a significant public health shift,” commented Yee Hui Yeo, co-first author of the study. “However, it raises concerns about potential medication shortages and emphasizes the importance of ensuring access for diabetes patients.”
The study relied on data from the healthcare software company TriNetX, which may not reflect the national landscape accurately.
In recent years, GLP-1 drugs have gained popularity due to their appetite-suppressing effects, with users reportedly losing up to 26% of their body weight.
The surging demand for these medications has propelled Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk to become two of the most valuable pharmaceutical firms globally. However, this high demand has made it challenging for some patients to obtain their prescriptions. Both companies have invested heavily to expand production capabilities.
Morgan Stanley analysts predict the global market for GLP-1 drugs will reach $105 billion by 2030, estimating that about 31.5 million people in the U.S. will adopt these medications by 2035, representing approximately 9% of the population.