AI Generated Image
11% of Americans Are Currently Taking a GLP-1 Weight Loss Drug Like Wegovy
Gizmodo • • business
Key Points:
- A Gallup survey found that 11% of American adults are currently taking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss in 2026, up from 8% in 2025 and 3% in 2024.
- The percentage of Americans who have ever tried these medications has risen to 15%, with awareness reaching a record 91%.
- GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, approved by the FDA in 2021 and 2023 respectively, are credited with contributing to a recent decline in U.S. obesity rates from 39.9% in 2022 to 36.4%.
- Among users, 68% take brand-name GLP-1 drugs, while 19% use compounded versions due to insurance coverage issues, and 12% are unsure of their medication type.
- While effective for many, GLP-1 drugs can cause side effects such as severe nausea and altered taste or smell, and appear less effective for individuals over 65 years old.
