GLP-1 Medications See Sharp Rise in Use for Weight Loss: Gallup Survey
Number of Americans taking GLP 1s – New Gallup data reveals that the number of U.S. adults using GLP-1 medications for weight management has reached a new peak, marking a significant surge in adoption since 2024. The survey, released Tuesday, highlights a dramatic shift in healthcare habits over the past two years, with usage rates climbing to unprecedented levels.
The survey indicates that 11% of the population are now using these drugs regularly, up from a mere 3% in 2024. This rapid growth underscores a growing interest in GLP-1 therapies, which are designed to target weight loss through mechanisms involving appetite suppression and glucose regulation. Additionally, 15% of participants reported prior use of GLP-1 medications, representing a 9-point jump from previous years. These figures suggest a broadening acceptance of the treatment across demographics.
Concurrently, the national adult obesity rate has seen a decline, dropping to 36.4% thus far in 2026 from a record-high 39.9% in 2022—the year after Wegovy, a prominent GLP-1 drug, received FDA approval for weight loss. This trend appears to mirror the increased availability of GLP-1 medications, though researchers have pointed to other contributing factors as well. The correlation between falling obesity rates and the growing use of these drugs suggests a potential impact on public health outcomes.
Meanwhile, diabetes diagnosis rates have stabilized following a 15-year upward trend, which coincided with rising obesity levels. The Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, which incorporates these findings, notes that the decline in obesity may be linked to broader lifestyle changes and the role of GLP-1 drugs in managing weight-related conditions. The survey was conducted between May 28 and June 5, involving over 5,000 adults nationwide, providing a robust snapshot of current health behaviors.
The growing popularity of GLP-1 drugs has not gone unnoticed by healthcare analysts. While the survey emphasizes their potential in combating obesity, experts caution that multiple factors—such as dietary shifts, increased physical activity, and overall health awareness—likely play a role in the observed decline. The analysis also underscores the importance of accessibility, with researchers suggesting that wider availability of these medications has contributed to the trend.
Earlier studies highlight a broad trend linking GLP-1 medication use to reduced obesity prevalence among various age groups, except for seniors aged 65 and above, where efficacy reports indicate a diminished effect. This age-related disparity raises questions about the long-term impact of the drugs on different populations. However, the current data suggests that even older adults are beginning to adopt these treatments, albeit at a slower rate than younger demographics.
For those with commercial insurance, cost remains a barrier to access, as numerous plans have yet to include GLP-1 drugs in their coverage for weight loss. Despite this, intensified competition among pharmaceutical firms and global pricing dynamics have contributed to a reduction in out-of-pocket expenses. This shift has made the drugs more affordable, particularly as market demand has grown.
Medicare recipients are also experiencing declining drug costs, with certain Novo Nordisk products undergoing price adjustments through Medicare negotiation processes. Under the Trump-era Bridge Program, select Medicare enrollees can obtain GLP-1 medications at a reduced rate of $50 per month. This initiative has expanded access for elderly patients, who may otherwise face higher financial hurdles.
Supply constraints have spurred the development of more affordable compounded alternatives, which lack FDA approval. Despite a recent directive to halt compounding of non-branded GLP-1 drugs, 19% of current users reported opting for these custom formulations. The lower cost of compounded or custom-mixed varieties is likely making GLP-1s available to broader sectors of the population, including those with limited financial resources.
About one-third of people who were taking a compounded medication said they had switched from a brand-name drug, indicating a shift toward more cost-effective options. This trend reflects the broader market dynamics influencing prescription habits, as both patients and providers seek balance between efficacy and affordability.
As GLP-1 medications become more integrated into weight management strategies, their role in public health discussions continues to evolve. The surge in usage has prompted debates about long-term benefits, potential side effects, and the sustainability of cost reductions. With the U.S. obesity rate showing signs of stabilization and diabetes diagnoses plateauing, the impact of these drugs on national health metrics remains a subject of ongoing research.
While the survey focuses on usage patterns, it also highlights the challenges that persist in making GLP-1 therapies universally accessible. For example, the federal government has been actively negotiating drug prices for Medicare beneficiaries, which has helped lower costs for some medications. This effort may have contributed to the affordability of GLP-1 drugs, though disparities remain for those on commercial insurance plans.
Experts warn that the increased adoption of GLP-1 drugs should be viewed alongside other health trends. The decline in obesity rates, for instance, may also be attributed to behavioral changes, such as healthier eating habits and increased exercise. However, the availability of these medications has undoubtedly played a role in making weight loss more attainable for a larger segment of the population.
As the demand for GLP-1 drugs rises, pharmaceutical companies are under pressure to maintain competitive pricing. The introduction of generic alternatives and the use of international pricing models have helped curb costs, but ongoing negotiations and policy shifts will be crucial in ensuring continued affordability. The survey’s findings reinforce the need for sustained efforts to balance access, cost, and long-term health outcomes.
The growing prevalence of GL
