A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine highlights a significant shift in the prescription trends of GLP-1 drugs, which are primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. The study reveals that the percentage of prescriptions for individuals with diabetes has decreased while the share of those without diabetes receiving these medications has grown. This trend could potentially lead to shortages of these vital treatments.
GLP-1 drugs, which include well-known medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound, function by mimicking hormones that help regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite. Originally approved for the management of type 2 diabetes, the FDA expanded the use of these medications in 2021 to also address weight loss, causing a surge in their prescription.
Researchers from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center analyzed the health records of 45 million Americans from 2011 to 2023. Their findings indicate a decline in the proportion of new users with type 2 diabetes from nearly 90% in 2019 to over 70% in 2023. Conversely, the number of new users without diabetes rose from 10% to 25% in the same period. Yee Hui Yeo, the co-first author of the study, pointed out that this shift reflects a growing recognition among healthcare providers of the benefits of these medications for treating obesity, marking a significant public health transition. However, concerns remain regarding access for those with diabetes who need these medications most.
Both Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, the leading manufacturers of GLP-1 drugs, have seen unprecedented commercial success, turning them into some of the world’s most valuable pharmaceutical companies. Yet, the soaring demand has created challenges in fulfilling all prescriptions, prompting significant investments in production by both companies. Analysts predict the global market for these drugs may surpass $105 billion by 2030, potentially benefiting around 31.5 million people in the U.S. by 2035—nearly 9% of the population.
This shift in prescription patterns highlights the growing importance of managing obesity as a public health issue while also underscoring the need to ensure that the most vulnerable populations—those living with diabetes—continue to receive necessary medications without hindrance.
The study’s findings open up dialogue on how healthcare systems can adapt to meet changing needs while maximizing access to essential treatments for all. Overall, while the increasing use of GLP-1 medications for obesity may present challenges, it also signals a broader recognition of the importance of managing weight in overall health strategies.