A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a notable shift in the prescription trends of GLP-1 drugs, which are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. The findings indicate that the proportion of new users without diabetes receiving these medications is on the rise, while prescriptions for those with diabetes are on the decline.
GLP-1 drugs, which work by mimicking a hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite, have traditionally been prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes. However, since the FDA approved Wegovy for weight loss in 2021, there has been a significant increase in demand for these medications. The study authors expressed concern over this trend, highlighting potential shortages that may impact diabetic patients’ access to the treatments they need.
Research conducted by Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and other institutions examined the medical records of approximately 45 million Americans from 2011 to 2023. The results showed that the percentage of new GLP-1 users diagnosed with type 2 diabetes decreased from nearly 90% to over 70%. Conversely, those without type 2 diabetes rose from 10% to 25% during the same timeframe.
“This data suggests that more healthcare providers are recognizing the benefits of these medications for treating obesity, marking a significant public health shift,” stated Yee Hui Yeo, co-first author of the study. Nonetheless, Yeo cautioned that these changes could lead to medication shortages, potentially leaving diabetic patients without access to these crucial treatments.
GLP-1 drugs have gained traction due to their appetite-suppressing effects and the potential for substantial weight loss—up to 26% of body weight. This boom in popularity has resulted in both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk becoming among the most valuable pharmaceutical companies globally. Yet, the soaring demand has led to challenges in fulfilling prescriptions for some patients. In response, both companies have made significant investments to scale up production.
According to Morgan Stanley analysts, the global market for GLP-1 medications could reach an impressive $105 billion by 2030. It is also anticipated that around 31.5 million people in the U.S., constituting about 9% of the population, will adopt these drugs by 2035.
While the increasing use of GLP-1 drugs for weight management may present challenges for diabetic patients, it also reflects a growing recognition of the need to address obesity as a health crisis. The demand for these medications offers hope that weight management will be prioritized in healthcare settings, potentially leading to improved overall public health outcomes.
In summary, as the landscape of GLP-1 prescriptions evolves, it becomes crucial to ensure that both diabetic and non-diabetic patients can safely access these effective treatments. The ongoing investments by pharmaceutical companies signal that they are committed to meeting the rising demand while addressing potential access issues.