Weight Loss Medications See Increased Use Despite High Costs
GoodRx, a prescription savings platform in the U.S., has reported a significant increase in the use of popular weight loss medications like Mounjaro, Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy. This surge in demand comes despite limited insurance coverage and high out-of-pocket costs for these medications.
According to GoodRx data, fills for Wegovy and Zepbound have increased by 100% and 300%, respectively, since the beginning of 2024. However, Americans have overspent on these medications by at least $200 million in 2024 by not using available savings options through GoodRx.
Insurance coverage for weight loss medications remains limited, with nearly 20% of people with commercial insurance lacking coverage for GLP-1 and GIP medications when prescribed for weight loss. Even with some insurance coverage, out-of-pocket costs remain high, with individuals using Zepbound paying more than $2,500 annually in copays.
Despite these financial barriers, the research highlights the growing popularity of weight loss medications due to their effectiveness. GoodRx patients can save an average of $250 per month, or $3,000 annually, on these medications by using GoodRx.
Meanwhile, in the U.K., the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has outlined a phased roll-out of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management, targeting individuals with a body mass index of 35 or higher and at least one weight-related illness. The program aims to address obesity's significant health burden, with an estimated cost to the NHS of $404.17 million annually by the third year of implementation.
NICE's final guidance on the roll-out is expected in December, with the first NHS patients to begin receiving tirzepatide in early 2025.