More Americans are turning to medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, but experts say these drugs are only one part of improving long-term health.
Americans are using GLP-1 weight loss medications at unprecedented levels, according to a new Gallup survey, reflecting one of the fastest shifts in obesity treatment in decades.
Gallup found that 11% of U.S. adults currently use GLP-1 medications for weight loss, nearly four times the share reported just two years ago. Another 15% say they have used one of these medications at some point, while awareness of drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Zepbound has climbed to more than 90% nationwide.
At the same time, Gallup reports that the national adult obesity rate has declined from a record 39.9% in 2022 to 36.4% in 2026. Diabetes diagnoses, however, have remained relatively stable, suggesting obesity treatment and diabetes prevention remain separate public health challenges.
For California, where millions of residents live with obesity or Type 2 diabetes, the findings point to a major transformation in medical care. But they also raise important questions about affordability, access and health equity.
What are GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications mimic a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate appetite, slows stomach emptying and improves blood sugar control.
Some of the best-known medications include:
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Zepbound (tirzepatide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes, several of these medications are now approved to treat obesity.
Clinical studies have shown many patients lose significant amounts of weight when the medications are combined with healthier eating, increased physical activity and ongoing medical supervision.
According to Gallup:
- 11% of U.S. adults currently use GLP-1 medications for weight loss.
- Usage has increased from 3% in 2024.
- Fifteen percent have used a GLP-1 medication at least once.
- Brand-name medications account for about two-thirds of current use.
- Cost remains one of the biggest reasons patients switch to compounded versions when insurance does not cover brand-name prescriptions.
Gallup also emphasizes that its findings show a relationship between increased GLP-1 use and lower obesity rates, but the survey does not prove the medications alone caused the decline. Other factors, including diet, exercise, public awareness and broader health trends, may also contribute.
California has invested heavily in obesity prevention, diabetes education and healthier communities over the past decade.
Yet obesity remains one of the state’s leading risk factors for:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Sleep apnea
- Certain cancers
- Kidney disease
Many California communities also face significant disparities in access to preventive healthcare, healthy food and safe places to exercise.
Demand for GLP-1 medications has grown rapidly across the state, but insurance coverage often determines who can benefit.
For many families, monthly costs can still reach hundreds or even thousands of dollars without adequate insurance coverage.
What it means for Latino communities
The Gallup findings may be especially important for Latino families.
Latinos experience disproportionately high rates of obesity and Type 2 diabetes compared with the overall U.S. population, increasing the risk of serious long-term complications.
For many households, these medications could provide another tool to reduce health risks when prescribed appropriately.
However, access remains uneven.
Some families face barriers including:
- High medication costs
- Limited insurance coverage
- Language barriers
- Difficulty finding specialists
- Limited access to preventive healthcare
These challenges can widen existing health disparities if newer treatments are available only to people who can afford them.
Doctors continue to emphasize that GLP-1 medications are not miracle cures.
Successful long-term weight management usually includes:
- Healthy eating habits
- Regular physical activity
- Adequate sleep
- Mental health support
- Ongoing medical monitoring
Many patients also regain weight after stopping medication, making long-term care planning an important part of treatment.
Like any prescription medication, GLP-1 drugs may cause side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation. Less common but more serious risks can include gallbladder disease, pancreatitis and kidney complications. Patients should discuss the benefits and risks with their healthcare provider before beginning treatment.
Insurance remains a major obstacle
Gallup found that affordability continues to shape treatment decisions.
Among people who switched from brand-name GLP-1 medications to compounded versions, cost and insurance coverage were cited much more often than effectiveness as the reason for changing medications.
That remains a major concern for California patients, particularly those whose insurance does not cover obesity medications.
What readers should know
If you’re considering a GLP-1 medication, health experts recommend discussing several questions with your healthcare provider:
- Am I medically eligible?
- What are the benefits for my health?
- What side effects should I expect?
- Will my insurance cover treatment?
- What lifestyle changes should accompany the medication?
- What happens if I stop taking it?
Understanding these issues can help patients make informed decisions instead of relying on social media or celebrity endorsements.
Gallup’s latest survey shows that GLP-1 medications have rapidly become part of mainstream healthcare in America.
Their growing use may represent one of the most significant developments in obesity treatment in decades.
For California and Los Angeles, the larger challenge now is ensuring that effective obesity care is available equitably, not only to those who can afford the newest medications.
As more research emerges and additional medications enter the market, public health experts will continue watching whether expanded access leads to lasting improvements in obesity, diabetes and overall health.
