Older Americans are quitting GLP-1 weight-loss drugs for 4 key reasons
Fox News••health
Key Points:
- A January 2025 JAMA study found that nearly 47% of overweight or obese people with type 2 diabetes and 65% without diabetes stopped taking GLP-1 medications within a year, despite their effectiveness for weight loss and diabetes management.
- Older adults, who have about a 40% obesity prevalence, are prime candidates for GLP-1 drugs but often discontinue use due to high costs, side effects, dehydration risks, and muscle loss concerns.
- Cost is a major barrier; some seniors face insurance coverage loss leading to out-of-pocket expenses exceeding $1,000 per month, although manufacturers like Lilly are working to lower prices and improve access.
- Common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal
