Five things you should know about using GLP-1 drugs for weight loss

You’ve likely heard about medications like Ozempic, Trulicity, or Wegovy as “new” ways to lose weight. What you might not know is these types of drugs – technically known as glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, or simply GLP-1 drugs – have been around for years for treating diabetes.

Five facts you should know about GLP-1 drugs

The recent popularity of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss has fueled a surge in demand. But if you’re thinking about using these injectable medications, there are a few things you might want to keep in mind:

1. GLP-1 drugs do not work alone. While the drugs can be effective in managing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss, they generally are not considered a standalone treatment for Type 2 diabetes or obesity. These conditions require comprehensive treatment strategies and management, including lifestyle and dietary changes that should be monitored by a healthcare professional.
2. They can have risky side effects. Some of the more common side effects of GLP-1 drugs include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but there also have been reports of issues such as sagging and wrinkling of skin. The FDA continues to investigate more serious side effects, such as suicide ideation.
3. GLP-1 drugs can be costly. The typical cost for these drugs is more than $1,000 a month, and a recent survey found more than half of those who have taken GLP-1 drugs say it was difficult to afford the cost, even with insurance. Your doctor may have suggestions on more affordable, effective ways to manage weight.
4. Your health plan might not cover GLP-1 drugs for weight loss. A growing number of employers and insurers won’t cover GLP-1s for weight loss, citing concerns about effectiveness, side effects, and cost. Individual healthcare coverage purchased through state or federal exchanges rarely covers GLP-1 drugs for weight management, and Medicare doesn’t cover GLP-1s for weight loss, either.
5. Many find it hard to stay on GLP-1 drugs. Whether it’s due to high cost, unwanted side effects, or both, the majority of people who start using GLP-1 drugs stop taking them before they see any meaningful health benefit. And those who stop taking them typically regain two-thirds of the weight they lost within a year.

If you have diabetes or simply want to lose weight, talk with your healthcare provider about all treatment options. Capital Blue Cross, for instance, offers digital diabetes tools and a care management team that can help you identify options for better nutrition and wellness for you to consider and discuss with your healthcare provider. Many employers also offer incentive-based wellness programs that can give you financial rewards for pursuing a healthier lifestyle.

Remember, managing your weight is not just about the pounds you lose – it’s about the health you can gain.