Rising Use of GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss in the U.S.
Recent announcements from the Biden administration about lower prices on weight-loss medications are likely to boost the use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro. This trend is already underway across the United States, but it is more noticeable in some states than others.
A report from a Pennsylvania health analytics company, Purple Lab, analyzed insurance claims data to explore the rise in prescriptions for weight-loss and diabetes medications across different states. These records primarily reflect prescriptions from commercial and government insurers, without accounting for those who paid cash or were uninsured. Therefore, the actual number of prescriptions could be much higher.
States with High GLP-1 Prescription Rates
The report found that more than 15% of the population in several states are receiving prescriptions for GLP-1 medications aimed at managing weight or controlling diabetes. Here are the states topping the list:
- West Virginia – 24%
- Kentucky – 22%
- Louisiana – 20%
- Oklahoma – 20%
- Alabama – 19%
- Mississippi – 19%
- North Dakota – 18%
- Alaska – 17%
- Arkansas – 17%
- Pennsylvania – 17%
- Iowa – 16.5%
- Michigan – 16%
- Ohio – 14.5%
- Georgia – 15%
- Kansas – 15%
- Tennessee – 15%
- Texas – 15%
Interestingly, the highest rates of GLP-1 usage are mostly found in the South, Midwest, and Appalachian regions, which also have higher obesity and diabetes rates.
On the flip side, states with the lowest usage of these medications include:
- Florida – 10%
- Maryland – 10%
- Wisconsin – 10%
- Washington – 9%
- California – 9.5%
- Nevada – 8%
- Oregon – 8%
- Arizona – 8%
- Colorado – 8%
- Utah – 8%
- Rhode Island – 7.5%
- Hawaii – 5%
Changing Perceptions of GLP-1 Medications
Dr. Brett Osborn, a neurologist and longevity expert based in Florida, notes that while these medications primarily target type 2 diabetes, their use is shifting towards treating obesity, especially in states where both diabetes and obesity are prevalent. He also suggests that these drugs may soon be prescribed for various other health issues, such as heart health, addiction problems, and even to support chemotherapy.
The latest data from the Trust for America’s Health reveals a worrying trend in obesity rates across the U.S. The report highlights that nine out of the ten states with the highest adult obesity rates are also seeing a significant portion of their populations prescribed GLP-1 drugs.
Obesity Rates in the States
The report indicates that the following ten states have the highest adult obesity rates:
- West Virginia – 41.4%
- Mississippi – 40.4%
- Louisiana – 39.2%
- Alabama – 38.7%
- Arkansas – 38.4%
- Oklahoma – 37.9%
- Kentucky – 37.7%
- Tennessee – 37.2%
- Indiana – 36.9%
- Texas – 36.8%
Overall, 19 states have adult obesity rates of 35% or higher. This is a notable change, as it marks the first year with no state reporting an adult obesity rate below 25%.
Promoting Healthier Communities
Dr. J. Nadine Gracia from Trust for America’s Health emphasizes the need for ongoing support for healthy eating and physical activity programs. She stresses that investments in nutrition and fitness programs should be prioritized to benefit all communities.
As the healthcare landscape evolves, it’s clear that GLP-1 medications are becoming an important tool in the fight against obesity and related health issues.
