A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine highlights an interesting shift in the prescription patterns of GLP-1 medications, traditionally used for managing type 2 diabetes. The research indicates that the percentage of patients without diabetes being prescribed these treatments is on the rise, while prescriptions for patients with diabetes are decreasing. This trend has raised concerns about possible shortages of these essential medications.
GLP-1 drugs, including popular treatments like Wegovy and Ozempic, function by imitating a hormone that regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite. Initially approved for type 2 diabetes management, the FDA’s 2021 approval of Wegovy for weight loss has contributed significantly to this trend.
The study, conducted by researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center among others, analyzed medical records of 45 million Americans from 2011 to 2023. Findings revealed a drop in new GLP-1 users with type 2 diabetes from nearly 90% in 2019 to over 70% in 2023, while the share of new users without diabetes surged from 10% to 25%. Yee Hui Yeo, co-first author of the study, noted that this reflects a growing acknowledgment among healthcare providers of the drugs’ efficacy in addressing obesity, a major public health issue. However, the necessity to prioritize access to these medications for diabetes patients remains vital.
The rising popularity of GLP-1 medications has led to significant financial success for companies like Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, positioning them as leading pharmaceutical enterprises globally. Nevertheless, this high demand has caused challenges for patients trying to fill their prescriptions. Both companies have made substantial investments to increase their production capabilities.
With market forecasts estimating the global GLP-1 drug sector may reach $105 billion by 2030, this indicates that a considerable portion of the U.S. population—approximately 31.5 million people or 9% by 2035—might adopt these treatments.
As medical professionals continue to recognize the benefits of GLP-1 medications, we can remain hopeful that advancements in production and distribution will ensure that all patients, particularly those with diabetes, can access the treatments they need.
In summary, while the rising use of GLP-1 drugs for weight management illustrates progress in obesity treatment, it simultaneously underscores the need for vigilance in ensuring availability for those who rely on these medications for diabetes management.