GLP-1 medications for weight loss and health are drawing increased attention in the United States, according to an April 9 article from Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. These drugs, originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, are now being used more widely for weight management.
The use of GLP-1 receptor agonists is significant because rising rates of overweight and obesity in the U.S. have led to greater risks of cancers, diabetes, stroke, arthritis, and other serious conditions. As a result, new treatments like GLP-1 drugs could have a broad impact on public health.
Semaglutide (sold as Ozempic or Wegovy) and tirzepatide (sold as Zepbound) are among the most commonly used GLP-1 drugs. Dr. Cynthia Herrick of WashU Medicine said: “GLP-1 receptor agonists are based on hormones that are made naturally by the body when we eat. They slow the movement of food through the gut and have a complex effect on signals of fullness in the brain.” She added that these effects help people eat less and lose weight.
Studies show users can lose about 15% to 20% of their body weight with these medications. Beyond weight loss, Herrick said they can also help treat type 2 diabetes, prevent heart attacks or strokes in certain patients, lessen some liver and kidney problems, and treat moderate to severe sleep apnea with newer drugs like tirzepatide.
Herrick noted possible side effects such as gallstones or digestive issues but said serious problems remain rare so far. More common side effects include nausea or mild digestive symptoms that can be managed by starting with low doses.
Insurance coverage varies: most plans cover GLP-1s for diabetes but not always for weight loss or other uses. Out-of-pocket costs may exceed $1,000 per month until deductibles are met; however direct-to-consumer programs from pharmaceutical companies may lower monthly costs to between $150-$450 depending on medication type and dose.
Herrick compared long-term use of these medicines to blood pressure or cholesterol treatments: “These work to reduce heart disease risk but only when taking the medications. When people stop them, weight can increase.” She emphasized that maintaining physical activity and healthy eating remains important alongside medication use.
Interest continues to grow—12% of Americans already take a GLP-1 drug according to a recent KFF survey—and ongoing research will further clarify long-term safety profiles.
Located in Saint Louis, Missouri,Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital was founded in 1999. Its current president is Timothy Eberlein; it includes a pediatric ward and serves as a training hospital.
