Nearly 12% of Americans Have Tried GLP-1 Based Weight Loss Medications

A recent study by RAND Corporation reveals that approximately 12% of the adult population in the United States has used GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs for weight reduction purposes. These medications, including well-known drugs like Ozempic, have gained popularity due to their significant role in facilitating weight loss, especially after numerous studies demonstrated their effectiveness. The survey examined a representative sample of 8,793 Americans, finding that about 11.8% have directly used these drugs, while another 14% expressed interest in trying them. Interestingly, usage rates vary across different demographics, with women aged 50 to 64 exhibiting the highest utilization. Among individuals aged 65 and above, the use was slightly higher in men, whereas women aged 30 to 49 were more than twice as likely to have taken these medications compared to their male counterparts.

The survey also highlighted common side effects experienced by users, predominantly nausea and diarrhea, affecting roughly half and one-third of the users, respectively. Since 2020, prescriptions for GLP-1 drugs have more than tripled, reflecting their rising prominence in weight management strategies. The increasing adoption of these drugs aligns with growing evidence of their efficacy in significant weight reduction, making them a cornerstone in contemporary obesity treatment.

Conducted during April and May of 2025, the study forms part of the largest and most recent research efforts to understand the extent of GLP-1 drug use in the U.S. This trend underscores a shift in weight loss approaches and highlights the importance of understanding both the benefits and side effects associated with these medications. The findings also point towards a demographic skew, with women in middle age leading the adoption of GLP-1 therapies.

Authors of the report include Robert Bozick, Shannon Donofry, and Katherine M. Rancaño, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of obesity treatment. This research emphasizes the growing influence of pharmacological solutions in weight management and the importance of monitoring side effects for safe use.

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