As GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy gain popularity for managing weight and diabetes, their use is notably increasing among younger adults. Reports indicate that these trends are also appearing on college campuses.
Research reveals that prescriptions for GLP-1s, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, are growing most rapidly among individuals under 40, especially among young women. A recent study in JAMA highlighted that, in 2023, over 162,000 young adults aged 18 to 25 filled at least one GLP-1 prescription, with women making up approximately 76% of these cases. These prescriptions were given for both weight management and diabetes treatment.
A separate survey conducted in 2025 showed that around 2% of students in grades 8, 10, and 12 reported that they have used prescription GLP-1 medications, while another 2% indicated they had used them without a prescription.
An article in The Cut, titled “The Secret ‘Ozempidemic’ on Sorority Row,” suggests that GLP-1 weight-loss drugs have quietly integrated into life at some elite universities, particularly impacting those participating in competitive sorority recruitment.
Three female students who spoke anonymously shared their experiences of using compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide to enhance their chances during recruitment and to fit into a growing beauty standard that prizes thinness. They noted that social media and competitive weight loss among friends have increased the demand for GLP-1 medications.
“For many young women starting college, being thin seems essential for a successful college life,” one student remarked. Another expressed surprise at learning that a 19-year-old like herself could obtain such medication, saying, “I thought, ‘I need to try this.’” A former sorority recruiter explained the pressure: “It’s like there’s no reason to be overweight when people can just use a GLP-1.”
Jay Campbell, an expert on longevity and peptides, commented that while these drugs are designed to address metabolic issues, many young women are using them as a shortcut for cosmetic purposes. He clarified, “For those genuinely facing metabolic challenges, these medications are a necessary medical solution. However, for a healthy, average college girl, it might just feel like a quick way to look good.”
According to Campbell, sorority culture heavily emphasizes appearances, leading to quick spread of news about rapid weight loss. “When one girl drops 15 pounds in six weeks, it travels through the sorority house faster than any fad diet, because the results are quick and don’t require effort in diet or exercise,” he said.
He raised concerns that many women in this age group already struggle with body image issues, and these medications could exacerbate their insecurities. While GLP-1s can be helpful for many, Campbell highlighted the risk of muscle loss if young women use them without proper nutrition and exercise.
For college students considering using GLP-1 medications for weight loss, Campbell suggests five important steps before starting treatment:
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Assess Medical Necessity: Consider if the medication is appropriate for you. “If you’re not obese or facing metabolic issues, ask yourself why you need a drug for a health problem you don’t have,” he advised.
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Focus on Muscle Protection: Maintaining muscle mass is essential. This involves real protein intake and resistance training, not just protein bars. “Avoiding this will lead to muscle loss you can’t easily regain in your 20s,” Campbell warned.
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Consider Fertility Aspects: These medications should not be used during pregnancy, and women planning to become pregnant should stop using them well in advance. It’s also important to be aware that some medications may reduce the effectiveness of birth control.
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Discuss Mental Health: Pay attention to your mental well-being. Young adults with depression, anxiety, or eating disorders should talk to their healthcare provider about any adverse mood changes while on these medications.
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Understand Long-Term Risks: The long-term effects of using GLP-1 medications for those who start with normal weight are still unknown. Campbell cautioned against viewing such powerful medications as merely lifestyle choices.
Though GLP-1 drugs can help suppress appetite, Campbell noted they won’t resolve underlying issues that cause weight loss in younger women. He emphasizes the importance of proper medical guidance and monitoring during treatment, highlighting that quick fixes often overlook deeper metabolic concerns.
