GLP-1 Use Reaches 11% of U.S. Adults as Doctors Warn Against Weight-Loss Misuse
Updated
Updated · NBC Chicago · Aug 3
GLP-1 Use Reaches 11% of U.S. Adults as Doctors Warn Against Weight-Loss Misuse
3 articles · Updated · NBC Chicago · Aug 3
Summary
11% of U.S. adults now use GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, up from 3% in 2024, and Gallup says obesity rates have posted a statistically meaningful decline that inversely tracks with rising use.
Doctors say that surge is fueling misuse concerns, stressing the drugs should be prescribed for medical need and used under supervision because they are not a short-term fix and weight often returns after stopping.
Patients with more than 20% of body weight to lose may benefit more from bariatric surgery than medication alone, surgeons said, with newer procedures less invasive and often covered by major insurance plans.
GLP-1s are generally considered safe and effective when doctor-prescribed, but physicians said the best results often come from combining medication with surgery, diet and lifestyle changes.